Monterey County 43L20/43L21/43L18 COMMUNICATIONS TECHNICIAN I/II/III DEFINITION Initially under general supervision, then under direction as experience is gained, installs, maintains, diagnoses and repairs a variety of fixed and mobile electronic communications equipment, including radio transmitter/receivers, antenna systems, microwave equipment, and dispatch console equipment; designs and builds new or revised communications equipment; and performs other related duties as required. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Communications Technician I Communications Technician I is the entry level in the class series. Incumbents install, maintain, and repair communications equipment requiring basic knowledge of technical theories of electronic circuitry, such as radio transmitters, receivers, and speakers and microphones. Incumbents initially work under close supervision and perform the least complex assignments; as experience is gained, employees work with greater independence performing a broader range of duties. Communications Technician II Communications Technician II is the journey level in the class series. Incumbents perform a full range of duties independently under minimal supervision including maintaining and repairing more complex analog and digital radio and microwave communications equipment, utilizing more complicated test equipment, exhibiting additional planning and coordination skills, and maintaining and repairing dispatch console equipment. Communication Technician II may be assigned to perform a considerable amount of work in the field at remote transmitter locations and at various other locations throughout the County. Communications Technician III Communications Technician III is the advanced journey level in the class series. Incumbents independently perform as experts in one or more of the following areas: analog and digital mobile and base radio transmission equipment, microwave systems, dispatch console systems, or other similarly complex equipment. Communications Technician is a flexibly staffed series. Incumbents may be appointed to the next higher level upon meeting the requirements of the higher position and with the recommendation for promotion by the appointing authority. The Communications Technician series is distinguished from other information technology Technician series, such as Information Technology Support Technician, Telecommunications Technician, and Telecommunications Specialist, in that the Communications Technician series has full responsibility for electronic communications equipment with a focus on digital and radio analog systems and the design of complex radio communications systems. EXAMPLES OF DUTIES The duties and responsibilities listed below are illustrative only. They are not meant to be a full and exhaustive listing of all of the duties and responsibilities of the classification. Communications Technician I:
1. Initially under close supervision, installs, tests, diagnoses, troubleshoots, and repairs a variety of fixed and two-way radio equipment, mobile data, lights, sirens, speakers, microphones, video cameras, shotgun locks, automatic door openers, map lights, scanners, wig wags, WiFi, timers, and other equipment into law enforcement vehicles, as well as other communications equipment including pagers, PA Systems, and new technologies such as Bluetooth, Access Point, and RFID. 2. Installs base and repeater equipment at the field site including climbing towers up to 200 to install antennas with assistance. 3. Reviews and logs information to support inventory and maintenance history. 4. Reads and interprets schematic drawings of RF and electronic equipment. 5. Maintains records and diagrams, and writes reports using computer software such as a spreadsheet, word processing, or billing software. 6. Assists clients and customers either by phone or in person. If unable to assist, refers users to other communications personnel for assistance. 7. Maintains the work area (including the shop, vehicle, or other) in a clean and orderly fashion. In addition to the above, Communications Technician II: 8. Installs, provides technical support, and troubleshoots more complex analog and digital communications systems including: microwave, two-way repeaters/base systems, Antenna systems (combiners, duplexers, isolators, cavities, etc), multiplexing equipment, power generators, power supplies/ups, tone and digital signaling equipment, voting comparators/receivers, 802.11(x) systems, 4 wire/2 wire RTO lines, console equipment, DC/Tone remote controls, and channel banks. 9. Conducts field tests to determine cause of interruption or interference in the operation of communications equipment. 10. Performs basic telephone type wiring such as copper wire and Cat 5 termination and inter-rack wiring. 11. Performs basic elements of data communications such as Mobile Data systems (including repairing controller equipment) and WiFi installations. 12. Performs basic troubleshooting and repair of voice recording systems. 13. Uses a variety of diagnostic tools related to troubleshooting various systems (i.e. spectrum analyzer, T- 1/DS-3 Testers, oscilloscope, Lineman, and other complex test equipment). 14. Coordinates technical resources, scheduling of customer requests, and outside contractors. 15. May assist in designing and building radio communications systems to be used in the County communications network. 16. Performs basic troubleshooting and repair of dispatch console systems. 17. Proficiently handle on-call and stand-by duty. 2
In addition to the above, Communications Technician III: 18. May do all of the following to varying degrees: train, lead, or guide staff and others in the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of a wide range of communications electronic equipment, using proper troubleshooting methods, tools, test equipment, circuit diagrams and technical manuals, in order to maintain systems in good working order. 19. Performs lead worker tasks, including activities such as assisting the Manager with coordination, organizing, or prioritizing of daily activities, and tracking status of assignments. 20. Researches, analyzes, assesses specifications, and makes recommendations for various analog and digital communications systems. 21. Provides informational assistance when negotiating with contractors or vendors. 22. Writes technical specifications and makes purchasing recommendations related to mobile and portable radios, base stations, microwave equipment, control network, associated equipment, and test equipment. 23. Consults with other agencies, engineers, and vendors, as directed, in order to identify and resolve telecommunications issues. QUALIFICATIONS A combination of experience, education, and/or training which substantially demonstrates the following knowledge, skills and abilities: Knowledge and Skills: Communications Technician I Some knowledge of: 1. Principles, techniques, and methods/standards (R56 and BICSi) used in the installation of communications equipment such as two-way radio systems, microwave, antenna systems, DC/AC power sources, console controller equipment, and tone remote controls. 2. Principles, techniques, and methods used in the installation of communications equipment such as video cameras, public address systems; microphone speakers, and amplifiers. 3. Pertinent rules and regulations applicable to the operation of communications equipment, including FCC rules on operating and installing two-way radio equipment. 4. Automotive electrical and ignition systems similar to those used in law enforcement vehicles. 5. Telephone circuits and data communications. 6. Tools and test equipment used in the installation and repair of communications equipment. 7. Basic safety practices when installing and repairing electrical and electronic equipment. 8. Modern office practices and procedures. 3
Skill and Ability to: 1. Learn to operate, install, repair and maintain a wide range of communications equipment. 2. Effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical personnel; write clearly in English, in order to maintain equipment records and write equipment specifications. 3. Read and interpret electronic diagrams, wiring schematics, specifications and standard component drawing symbols. 4. Use tools and test equipment such as a wattmeter, service monitor, voltmeter, and ohm meter to troubleshoot, install, and repair communications equipment. 5. Check transmit power, receiver sensitivity, modulation, frequency, continuity, and DC/AC power of a variety of communications equipment. 6. Use a Windows-based PC to organize work, generate records and reports, and configure equipment. 7. Establish and maintain effective work relationships; and provide excellent and courteous customer service. 8. Read, understand and apply oral and written policies and procedures. In addition to the above, Communications Technician II requires: Working knowledge of the above and: 1. Mobile data systems including the Master controller. 2. Voice recording systems. 3. Digital microwave and multiplexing equipment. 4. Dispatch Console systems. 5. Digital and analog radio and microwave communications systems. Skill and Ability to: 1. Under direction, troubleshoot additional more complex systems including: mobile data systems; voice recording systems; digital microwave and multiplexing equipment; dispatch console systems; and digital and analog radio systems. 2. Use additional, more complex tools and test equipment to troubleshoot, install, and repair communications equipment such as: spectrum analyzer, T-1/DS-3 Testers, oscilloscope, Lineman, and other complex test equipment. 3. Manage time effectively while working on multiple projects. In addition to the above, Communications Technician III requires: Thorough knowledge of: 4
1. The principles and modern techniques (such as R56, BICSi, and TIA standards) used in the installation, maintenance, programming, diagnosis and repair of analog and digital communications equipment including two-way radio, microwave systems, antenna systems, and dispatch console equipment. 2. Federal Communications Commission rules and regulations applicable to governmental agencies, and the operation of communications equipment, including FCC Part 90 Rules and Regulations, and FCC Licensing and Filings. 3. Advanced and emerging technologies such as P25, trunking, 4.9GHz microwave, 802.11(x), RoIP, broadband data applications, 700 MHz, Laser, SDR, tuning, filters. Working knowledge of: 1. Standard operating Procedures (SOP s) of various agencies in order to understand the needs of law enforcement, fire, and medical groups when analyzing system improvements. Skill and Ability to: 1. Assist with the planning, prioritizing, and assignment of work of others, as required; and work effectively as a team leader, team member, and team builder. 2. Perform work at the expert level in one or more of the following areas: analog and digital mobile and base radio transmission equipment, microwave systems, dispatch console systems, or other similarly complex equipment. 3. Stay abreast of new technologies in areas of interest to the County. 4. Use EDX software or equivalent radio path analysis software. 5. Gather, organize and analyze complex data relative to communications performance, draw logical conclusions and formulate recommendations concerning problem resolution, performance improvement and equipment upgrades. 6. Think creatively; develop new methods or approaches as needed; and exercise initiative, ingenuity and sound judgment in identifying and solving difficult technical problems. 7. Work calmly under pressure. 8. Apply basic project management techniques. REQUIRED CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT As a condition of employment, the incumbent will be required to: 1. Successfully pass a modified background investigation. 2. Possess a valid California Class C driver s license with a satisfactory driving record or be able to provide suitable transportation that is approved by the appointing authority. 3. Work occasional nights and weekends. 5
4. Respond to after hours emergency calls and perform standby duty as required. 5. Occasionally work under adverse conditions, such as inclement or hot weather. 6. Ability to become certified to climb towers. EXAMPLES OF EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION/TRAINING The knowledge, skills and abilities listed above may be acquired through various types of experiences, education or training, typically: Communications Technician I One year of training at a school specializing in two-way radio curriculum or one year of technical experience in the operation, installation, maintenance and repair of communications, audio, video or similar equipment. Communications Technician II Three years of technical experience in the operation, installation, maintenance, and repair of fixed and mobile electronic digital and analog communications equipment including radio transmitters / receivers, antenna systems, microwave equipment, dispatch console equipment and other communications equipment OR three years of experience performing duties comparable to that of a Communications Technician I in Monterey County. Possession of a valid FCC General Class Radio telephone license, NABER certificate, or APCO Certificate is highly desirable. Communications Technician III Four years of journey-level experience in the installation, maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of communications equipment, OR Four years of journey-level experience in one of the following specialty areas: analog and digital mobile and base radio transmission equipment; microwave systems; or dispatch console systems, OR four (4) years of recent experience as an Communications Technician II or equivalent. Possession of a valid FCC General Class Radio telephone license, NABER certificate, or APCO Certificate is highly desirable. PHYSICAL AND SENSORY REQUIREMENTS The physical and sensory abilities required for these classifications include: 1. Ability to hear and distinguish low frequency or quiet sounds; ability to distinguish and identify sounds and voices in a noisy environment. 2. Ability to be conscious of or perceive objects or their qualities through touch. 3. Manual and finger dexterity sufficient to work with hands in close tolerances and to work with extremely small electronic components; dexterity to operate hand or power tools. 4. Visual color discrimination sufficient to distinguish the color codes of wires and near vision sufficient to separate the wires. 5. Ability to work in confined work areas, perform tasks outdoors or work on uneven ground or floor surfaces, work at elevations above ground level, and work in adverse weather conditions; coordination and equilibrium sufficient to climb a ladder or tower and maintain balance. 6
6. Ability to perform tasks that require physical effort such as lifting, pushing, pulling, grasping, holding objects firmly, carrying, throwing or dragging, bending, stretching, twisting, reaching, stooping, balancing, squatting, climbing, crawling, kneeling or assuming crouched body position. 7. Strength to lift a 50-pound object, without assistance, and items weighing up to 150 pounds with assistance. CLASS HISTORY CLASS DATA Class Code: 43L20/43L21 Job Group: 13 Established Date: October 1969 EEO Category: T Revised Date: June, 2007 Work Comp. Code: 9410 April 1990 Bargaining/Employee Unit: J Former Title: N/A FLSA: C MOCO OT: Y Class Code: 43L18 Job Group: 13 Established Date: January 2001 EEO Category: T Revised Date: June, 2007 Work Comp. Code: 9410 Former Title: N/A Bargaining/Employee Unit: J FLSA: C MOCO OT: Y Prepared by: Cynthia Berry, Associate Personnel Analyst, ITD Approved by: /s/ Dianne Dinsmore County Administrative Office 06/13/07 Date 7