Systems Engineer III

Position Summary

We are looking for a Systems Engineer III - Radio Coordinator. Must be a WI resident or willing to relocate. Hybrid position with travel as required.

Goals and Work Activities

• Analysis and review to ensure compliance for new and existing radio systems
• Analyze performance data related to radio systems with the development of techniques to optimize the use of radio resources
• Assist and advise institutions and centers on providing the necessary data to account for their radio communications needs for the upcoming biennium and provide recommendations on improvements to their plans and implementation strategies
• Aid in the development of department radio communications planning for the better use of existing services and consideration of new services and technologies
• Aid in standardizing operating procedures for all DOC institutions and centers to follow, including a DOC Communications Plan, Security Internal Management Procedures (SIMPs), policies and procedures as required by Security and Internal management and establishing disaster recovery plans and services
• Aid in securing and administering FCC radio frequency licenses including filing applications with the FCC on a timely basis, with necessary input from the installation vendors, to ensure that the systems can be operational when needed
• Aid in maintaining Tower Licenses and FAA approval for towers located near airports
• Coordinate with outside agencies the analysis of frequency use for Mutual Aide and Emergency response. Assist with developing Memorandums of Understanding for authorized use of such frequencies or written authorization to apply for licenses for said use when appropriate
• Attend Emergency Response meetings and apply findings to DOC radio systems
• Partner with vendors to build relationships, analyze processes and technology to ensure system aligns with industry standards in all areas of radio technology, including but not limited to, network, PC & cabling standards
• Assist with development and installation of radio communications systems for the department on a state-wide basis
• Aid in the installation and implementation of all new services and systems with the involved vendors, contractors, architects, engineers, departmental users and other agencies, ensuring that installations meet all DOC and state standards
• Aid in planning and conducting reviews of service levels and equipment performance to make recommendations for the improvement of efficiency and cost controls, responding to program changes and user needs
• Aid in maintaining inventory & databases reflecting the DOC Fleet Map and inventory of all radio equipment
• Maintain inventory of all Code Plugs (electronic file that contains features and programming for a specific radio) for programmable radio in the fleet
• Conduct periodic onsite analysis of radio programming of fleet radios and compare code plug date on file to assure standardization and reliability
• Aid configuring networking equipment to include switches and other network apparatus used in radio systems and connectivity to existing state networks
• Install, configure and backup workstations used in any IT-integrated facility-based radio systems
• Assist with on-site radio asset management
• Aid in the scheduling, planning and implementation of site surveys to review existing radio communication systems and services aimed at identifying problems and needs for recommending changes either in current operations, for budgetary purposes or to effectively communicate in emergency situations
• Aid as point of contact for emergency back-up resources in event of a systems failure
• Aid in analyzing and evaluating all DOC institution and center’s Communication Trunking System, a computerized frequency management system that handles multiple frequencies. Assist in maintaining consistent talk groups within the department
• Provide consultation and technical assistance for all radio communications systems and equipment department-wide
• Maintain a working knowledge of radio communications systems, services, and equipment to provide consulting services and recommendations to all department users and facilities
• Establish and maintain a professional working relationship with other industry professionals, vendors, equipment manufacturers and service providers to stay abreast of current and emerging technologies
• Aid with studies (feasibility studies, cost benefit analysis etc.) on radio systems, equipment and services for divisional and departmental budget planning
• Respond to requests for information and advice by providing technical expertise on radio communication operations, services and equipment
• Aid with preparation of formal project reports, respond to questionnaires and surveys as assigned or requested and present progress to management, key stakeholders
• Act as liaison between department users and vendor/service providers in all areas of radio communications
• Aid in providing standards and other guidance material to assist institutions and offices of the department in establishing disaster recovery plans and services
• Communicate and assist Purchasing agents in the development of Request for Purchase for radio equipment and systems
• Maintain liaison with other agencies to share information on common problems and to take advantage of available expertise
• Train Institution staff on Radio Systems
• Direct and in some cases develop the training plans and supervise the delivery of training to departmental employees on the use of radio communications equipment and services to assure consistency to all DOC institutions and centers

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of radio equipment and digital radio trunking systems
• Knowledge of all operation procedures in radio equipment
• Knowledge of SIMPs
• Knowledge of FCC Licensing procedures and license maintenance requirements
• Knowledge of Radio Programming related to software and interface equipment
• Knowledge of how to properly maintain fleet of portable batteries
• Working knowledge of PCs, standard Windows OS’s and Microsoft Office (Access, Outlook, Word, Excel)
• Experience with workstation backup principles
• Experience with networking concepts and principles. Experience working with network hardware including switches, routers & firewalls
• Experience cabling network-attached equipment, to include copper and fiber optic technologies
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Skill in resolution of conflicts of both technical issues and interpersonal relationships
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with Division personnel, institution personnel, professional consultants, vendors / trades people, and representatives of other agencies
• Ability to create clear and comprehensive technical documentation and detailed system diagrams
• Ability to work well alone or in a team environment
• Ability to manage time and juggle multiple simultaneous projects and operational responsibilities