Emergency Communications Systems Specialist

The Department of Public Safety Communications and Emergency Management (DPSCEM) is seeking an Emergency Communications Systems Specialist to support and enhance the County’s critical radio communications infrastructure. This position plays a vital role in public safety and government agencies, providing reliable, secure, and innovative communications for the safety and well-being of our community.

The Emergency Communications Systems Specialist will be responsible for managing, programming, maintaining radio communications systems, supporting system upgrades, and providing technical expertise to internal and external stakeholders. This role is essential for effective incident response, and requires proficiency in system administration, technical support, regulatory compliance, and inter-agency coordination. 

Major Job Duties: 

• Develop, implement, and manage radio codeplug configurations and templates for County radio systems and devices; 
• Coordinate installation, testing, upgrades, and maintenance of radio and communications equipment; 
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for radio and communications issues, including in-vehicle installations;
• Collect and analyze data and metrics from public safety wireless communications systems to ensure reliable and sustainable operations;
• Serve as technical contact for vendors regarding repairs, upgrades, and projects;
• Coordinate interdepartmental efforts to address issues with in-building wireless systems and represent PSCEM on internal and external committees and task forces;
• Ensure compliance with FCC licensing, state, and federal regulations, and maintain system records and reports;
• Provide technical assistance and training to internal and external stakeholders, including Arlington County Police, Fire, Sheriff Departments, and the Department of Environmental Services—by coordinating ongoing installations and maintenance of radio systems; and
• Support Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activations and incident communications equipment distribution. 

The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, technically skilled professional with strong problem-solving abilities and a collaborative approach. This individual is motivated to support public safety operations, can work independently and as part of a team, and is committed to continuous learning in communications technology.

Minimums: 

• Associate degree in communications, public administration, criminal justice, fire science, emergency technology, or a closely related field; and
• Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in emergency communications and/or maintaining emergency communications systems. 

Substitution: Additional qualifying experience can be substituted for the education requirement. A master's degree or higher may be substituted for some of the experience requirements.
 
Desirables:  Preference may be given to applicants with experience with a bachelor's degree in related field and/or in one or more of the following: 

• Providing technical training and support to end users, including programming and maintaining public safety radio systems;
• Coordinating with multiple public safety agencies and external vendors;
• Managing compliance with FCC and other regulatory requirements; 
• Motorola Codeplug creation and editing; and
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite and communications system software, Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, and using Radio Management and Central software.

Possession of one or more of the following Certifications/Trainings preferred:  

• Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) Basic Dispatch Certification;
• Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) Security Awareness Training;
• National Crime Information Center (NCIC)/Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) Access; and
• Completion of Motorola Certified training courses.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

A completed application will include a Resume. Please attach a Resume to this application. 

A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted.  It may include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You may be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.  

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Flexible work schedule and telework opportunities available.  Occasional weekend or evening work m