Electronics/Communications Technician

About the Role

We are hiring a full-time (40 hours weekly), exempt Electronic/Communications Technician to support and maintain Information Technology systems, networks, and hardware. This role assists with the planning, development, and management of information systems and networks, providing “zero-downtime” customer support. Driving ability is required to maintain appropriate response time during emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Administers IP-based first responder radio and data networks, public safety computer networks, and IP telephony, including troubleshooting, field support, and network cybersecurity.
• Engineers computer systems, servers, network security, and network solutions to meet the needs of internal and external customers.
• Consults with customers to design systems based on needs, workflow, and applications with sound engineering practices.
• Installs, tests, troubleshoots, and maintains E-911, trunked and conventional radio systems, telephony equipment, wireless data networks, computer workstations, servers, mobile electronics, and other equipment used for emergency communications.
• Manages technical projects for internal departments and external agencies.
• Utilizes computer software and electronic test equipment to perform system diagnostics, interpret results, and affect rapid repair of electronics and support equipment for the wide area network controlling the 800 MHz trunked radio system, associated microwave network, and other communications systems.
• Makes sound, timely decisions to solve problems related to mobile, portable, and base station radio equipment, microwave systems, multiplex terminals, digital paging systems, emergency power systems, CCTV, building access systems, computer workstations, servers, telephony, and RF site support equipment.
• Inspects, tests, and aligns communications equipment as part of preventative maintenance.
• Provides 24/7 on-call technical repair and support services for the 800 MHz trunked radio network, dispatch consoles, digital alphanumeric paging system, and supporting computer systems.
• Maintains cache radio equipment in a state of readiness for deployment.
• Troubleshoots and analyzes equipment/system problems, makes repairs, and determines the need for outside repair; directs maintenance and service contracts for communications and emergency/backup power equipment.
• Assists with ensuring the continual operation of public safety communications systems, computer and networking systems, and related technology, including backup/redundant systems.
• Performs related work as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology Systems, Network Engineering, RF Engineering, or related discipline.
• Six (6) years of technology support for emergency communication systems or related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Certifications and Licenses

• Valid driver’s license.
• Federal Communications Commission General Radio/Telephone Operator's License.
• Federal Communications Commission Amateur Radio Operator's License.
• Motorola Astro Integrated Voice and Data Professional Certification.
• Department of Homeland Security Office of Emergency Communications - Communications Unit Leader Certification.
• Department of Homeland Security Office of Emergency Communications - Communications Technician Certification.
• A+ Certification.
• Certified Electronics Technician.
• Association of Public Safety Communications Officials Radio Technician Certification.
• National Emergency Number Association Emergency Number Professional (preferred).

Physical Demands

Performs light to medium work involving walking or standing virtually all the time, exerting between 20 and 50 pounds of force regularly, and using fingers, hands, or limbs for repetitive operation of mechanical or electronic equipment.

Work Environment

Routine and frequent exposure to bright/dim light, dusts and pollen, extreme heat/cold, wet/humid conditions, extreme noise levels, animals/wildlife, vibration, fumes/noxious odors, traffic, and moving machinery.

Benefits

• Comprehensive State Medical Insurance
• Dental and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Long-term disability
• Parental Leave
• Bereavement Leave
• Deferred Compensation 401K Plans
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Public Loan Forgiveness Program (Student Loan Forgiveness Program)
• 11 Paid Holidays + 3 Optional Holidays
• Longevity Pay
• SC State Retirement Plan Pension
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time
• Expanded Sick Bank
• Critical Care and Cancer Insurance
• Wellness Screenings
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Professional Development / Trainings / Conferences

Pay

Projected Salary Range/Pay Grade 121: $69,797.45 - $83,756.94, determined based on qualifications.

Schedule

24/7 on-call technical repair and support services, with a regular schedule of 40 hours weekly.