POLICE COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

About the role

The Burbank Police Department's Communications Center is managed under general direction. The position involves coordinating, managing, and directing the center's operations, including radio and computer dispatch systems, telephone/radio recording systems, and burglar alarm systems. Emergency dispatching and radio communications are provided on a 24/7 basis.

Responsibilities

• Plans, coordinates, and manages the operations of the Police Communications Center
• Administers the operations of the computer-aided dispatch center
• Develops and implements policies, goals, and objectives associated with Communications Center services, programs, and activities
• Identifies and applies opportunities for improving service delivery methods
• Determines resource needs and monitors work flow
• Directs programs for the maintenance and repair of the Communications Center and dispatch systems
• Participates in the development and implementation of training in law enforcement operations in police communications
• Responds to court subpoenas
• Represents the Police Department and the City at public and legal proceedings
• Collaborates with other Department staff and participates on committees
• Prepares and maintains accurate reports and records, both manually and electronically
• Participates in outside professional groups
• Maintains an awareness of trends and developments in the field of police communications, incorporating new developments as appropriate
• Investigates complaints and recommends appropriate action
• Serves as a Communications Operator or Supervisor when necessary
• Supervises, trains, and evaluates employees
• Makes effective recommendations regarding hiring, promotions, transfers, and disciplinary action as needed, up to and including termination
• May serve in place of the Support Services Division Captain in their absence
• Performs related duties as required

Minimum Qualifications

• Knowledge of operational characteristics, services, and routine activities of modern law enforcement communications, dispatch, and computerized record-keeping systems
• Rules and regulations of the Federal Communication Commission covering the operation of radio receivers and transmitters
• Policies and procedures of the Communications Center manual, the Burbank Police Department Policy Manual, California Penal and Vehicle Codes, and the Burbank Municipal Code
• Management information systems
• Major landmarks and roadways within the City of Burbank
• Principles and practices of sound personnel management and supervision
• Spelling, grammar, and punctuation

Skills

• Operating modern computers and related software
• Exercising independent judgement and decisions based on standard policy and procedures
• Interacting and communicating tactfully and effectively, especially during emergency response

Education/Training

Any combination of education and/or experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for acceptable job performance as determined by the City. Example combination includes, but is not limited to:

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, criminal justice, or a closely related field
• Five years’ experience as a Communications Supervisor or equivalent

License & Certificates

A valid California Class “C” driver’s license or equivalent may be required at time of appointment. Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Dispatcher Supervisor Certification at time of appointment. All required licenses and certificates must be maintained throughout employment in this classification.