IT RADIO COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

WORK OBJECTIVE:

We are seeking qualified candidates for the position of Radio Communications Manager, which will be part of the Information Technology Department for the Authority. The Radio Manager will function as the SME (Subject Matter Expert) for all operations of the radio system. Responsibilities include scheduling and tasking (internal/external resources including 3rd party vendor resources,) managing the overall radio system health, backup, monitoring, system support and system patching and security. The Radio Manager is a confidential employee due to the sensitivity of radio communications, the criticality of the system and the vendor and agency relationships needed to maintain an operational system.



ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The Radio Communications Manager will perform the following responsibilities: Installation, testing, maintenance and repair of commercial FM two-way radio systems and equipment including low band VHF, VHF, UHF, P25 trunked radio networks, microprocessor-controlled radio transceivers, simulcast site controllers, antenna systems, multi-site microwave links, dispatch consoles, and associated telecommunications and network equipment which impact government and public safety operations for external and internal customers. • On-site service manager providing daily customer service, troubleshooting, and programming for all LMR infrastructure and subscriber equipment. • Ensures systems are running, optimized, and utilized correctly and efficiently. • Works directly with business units utilizing radio communication servers to ensure business requirements are documented and maintained. • Perform diagnostics and troubleshooting of analog and digital radio systems (e.g., P25, trunked/conventional). • Conduct preventative maintenance and routine system performance checks. • Program radios and update firmware/software as needed. • Interface with end-users to resolve technical issues and support operational needs. • Maintain detailed service records, logs, and technical documentation. • Ensure compliance with FCC regulations and site-specific technical requirements. • Defines, acquires, analyzes, synthesizes, and publishes radio system operational metrics. • Builds the team and oversees execution of work plans for full-time and contractor staff. • Assists with the installation and maintenance of mobile radios in Authority vehicles as needed. • Oversees installation and maintenance of all subscriber units (portable and mobile radio units) and bi-directional amplifiers (BDA) as required by law. • Identifies hardware that is end of commercialization and develop a strategy and budget to bring the environment into a supported state. • Participate in on-call after-hours support role, which includes a requirement to respond remotely or in-person to radio system outages. • Perform related duties commensurate with classification level. • Basic understanding of IP network technology including as; understanding of Ethernet backhaul as it applies to Land Mobile Radio networks; and knowledge of electronics theory, circuit operation.



KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES:

General knowledge of principles, procedures, and operations of Public Safety two-way radio emergency communications systems; required. Must have the skill and ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. General computer literacy; required. Must be able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with 9-1-1 Commissioners, county officials, other public safety officials, citizens, and vendors. Must be able to read, write and understand the English language and follow written and verbal instructions. Must have the ability to manage the day-to-day operations of a radio system network and to forecast future changes to the system. Moderate knowledge of public safety P25 simulcast trunking emergency radio system, digital microwave systems, fiber connectivity, FCC regulations and response communications systems, procedures, practices, and terminology; preferred. Moderate knowledge of the relevant federal, state, and local regulations governing communications systems and services; preferred. Moderate knowledge of best practices related to interoperability, encryption, physical security, and system security; preferred. Moderate knowledge and experience maintaining UPS systems, generators, power transfer switches and HVAC systems at tower sites. Moderate knowledge of Computer Aided Dispatch and Call-Handling Equipment. Ability to analyze technical information and prepare reports from technical information and to present this information in both oral and written form. Considerable skill in supervising and inspecting work of a support staff/vendors who install, operate, and maintain radio communications systems, analyzing cost and rate structures, designing, and implementing preventive maintenance systems and working with government officials, suppliers, contractors, and the public; preferred.



PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Tasks involve the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and /or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (up to 50 pounds) with the occasional need to lift heavier equipment and materials with or without assistance as required.



ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

Work is performed in usual office conditions with rare exposure to disagreeable environmental factors.



MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in management information systems, Computer Science, or Electrical Engineering required. Minimum of 7 years of experience in systems maintenance, operations, end-user support and expert level knowledge of 800MHz trunked and conventional radio technology. Working knowledge of networking protocols and methods used in radio and network communications systems. Strong written and verbal communications skills. Ability to pass background, TSA and CBP security clearance checks to maintain a SIDA badge



NOTE:

TO APPLY: Send NFTA employment application, resume and cover letter specifying the job number #069-26-N to: NFTA Human Resources 181 Ellicott Street Buffalo, NY 14203 Or email to: View email address on click.appcast.io



OTHER:

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.