Job: Radio Communications Technician
Job Description
Job Type: Full time, Salaried
Wage: $61,380-$90,672/yr.
Location: Buena Vista, CO.
Job Description:
CDPS is an equal opportunity employer. See our EEOD Utilization Report (2020)
Our Mission - Engaged employees working together to safeguard lives and to provide diverse public safety services to local communities.
Our Vision - Creating safer and more resilient communities across Colorado.
Our Core Values – Unity, Honor, Service
CDPS commits to cultivating an equitable, diverse, and inclusive work environment. We ensure that we recruit, retain, and promote engaged employees. Our approach to diversity is simple - it's about embracing everyone! We strive to build and nurture a culture where inclusiveness is a reflex, not an initiative. Our strength is our promise to be inclusive with intentional strategies to welcome and uplift our employees to thrive - while building a more equitable workplace.
At CDPS we nurture an employee-centric culture driven by our commitment of creating a safer Colorado, an inclusive workplace where everyone can be their own authentic self. We model a culture of collaboration, support and growth to our employees. Our culture has public service focus, and we strive to provide innovative solutions and services to our fellow Coloradans!
Careers with a purpose:
If you are passionate about public safety service, and are eager to dedicate your career to serving Coloradans, this is the organization you want to join!We are committed to providing public safety services to our fellow Coloradans in their times of greater needs such as: safety on our roads, preparing and mitigating environmental disasters, disaster recovery, combating crime, school safety, and victim recovery.
You’ll have the opportunity to challenge yourself and acquire new capabilities to build a rewarding and fulfilling career while making a difference in our community!
When you join CDPS, you are joining a team of exceptional individuals and together you will be inspired, motivated and supported to become the best you can be.
Unmatched Benefits:
We highly value work life balance and offer excellent work-life programs, training and enriching professional development opportunities and a wide range of benefits.
Medical and dental options are available for permanent employees and their dependents. We also offer short and long-term disability coverage, and life insurance that includes legal resources and discounts.
State contribution into Health Savings Account when enrolled in HDHP.
Job protected medical leave under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the State of Colorado Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program (FAMLI).
Paid medical leave benefits provided by the State of Colorado.
Eligibility for hybrid or other flexible work arrangements based on the nature of the role.
We offer unmatched retirement benefits including mandatory PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan, plus optional 401K and 457 plans. For information on mandatory employee salary deferral (in lieu of contribution to Social Security), visit Colorado PERA for details.
CDPS provides generous time off including 11 paid holidays annually and accrued annual and sick leave and four annual wellness days.
The Employee Assistance Program (C-SEAP) is available in every region of the state. It is our effort to support the well-being of employees and the workplace. EAPs provide short-term counseling, referrals and resources, as well as training and organizational development services.
Additional benefits offered include tuition reimbursement and reduced college tuition at CSU Global and DeVry University.
Credit Union of Colorado membership eligibility.
For a complete review of the benefits we offer, please click on this link.
Description of Job
DIVISION OF HOMELAND SECURITY AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
This position is located within the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM). The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) is a dynamic and diverse team that is committed to developing, administering and coordinating comprehensive and integrated statewide emergency management and homeland security programs. The Division’s work ensures the safety and security of Colorado and its infrastructure through unity of effort with local, tribal, state, federal, private, and nongovernmental partners.
This position is located within the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM). The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) is a dynamic and diverse team that is committed to developing, administering and coordinating comprehensive and integrated statewide emergency management and homeland security programs. The Division’s work ensures the safety and security of Colorado and its infrastructure through unity of effort with local, tribal, state, federal, private, and nongovernmental partners.
Our Mission: To lead and support Colorado's effort to prevent, protect, mitigate, respond to and recover from all-hazards events.
Our Vision: A prepared, safe and resilient Colorado!
Our Core Values: Service, Teamwork, Respect, Integrity, Vision and Excellence.
Our Guiding Principles: Results-Focused, Innovative, Service-Oriented and Employee-Centric.
Our mission is accomplished through a comprehensive and coordinated program of mitigating hazards, preparing for emergencies, preventing terrorist attacks and other criminal activity, coordinating resources for response to a disaster and supporting subsequent recovery efforts. The division also serves as the conduit for state and federal funding to prepare for and recover from all hazard events. The division accomplishes its mission through the following offices:
- Director's Office
- Office of Emergency Management (OEM)
- Office of Grants Management (OGM)
- Office of Security and Prevention (CIAC)
- Office of Public Safety Communications (OPSC)
ABOUT THE WORK UNIT
The Office of Public Safety Communications (OPSC) provides critical and essential public safety two-way radio communications to over 1,000 local, state, tribal and federal public safety and governmental agencies across the state. On average the system supports 8 – 9M calls per month and is one of the largest communications systems in the United States. It is currently the largest system in Colorado providing interoperability across a vast array of
independent communications systems in every county jurisdiction and region of the state. Over 120,000 Colorado first responders use the system for routine operations, emergency operations, interoperability, mutual aid, for both naturally occurring and man caused large scale events.
independent communications systems in every county jurisdiction and region of the state. Over 120,000 Colorado first responders use the system for routine operations, emergency operations, interoperability, mutual aid, for both naturally occurring and man caused large scale events.
The OPSC represents the State of Colorado, in all matters related to public safety communications, in partnership with political subdivisions, elected officials, state departments, local, regional, tribal and federal government. The OPSC team is made up of system engineers, network monitoring, program management, project management, transmitter site facility operations and maintenance.
We are responsible for system design - expansion and architecture, establishment and enforcement public safety communications policy, procedures, standards, technological advancement, system security – system upgrade management, Federal Communications Commission licensing and compliance, radio programing and talk group assignment, transmitter site and tower construction, everything associated with what may directly impact the performance and reliability of the OPSC.
Our teams are geographically and strategically stationed at 13 regional technical service centers throughout the state to ensure an immediate response and accelerated restoration of communications continuity of operations. This includes, but is not limited to knowledge and proficiency of all computer software programs operating various components of the system, installation, service and maintenance of all backup power generators, environmental conditioning units, UHF – VHF – Microwave, transmitters – receivers, coaxial waveguide - antenna systems and communications tower structures in excess of 400 feet.
All engineering and technical specialist are trained in winter survival and safe snow-cat operations in effort to safely access high altitude mountain communications sites in Colorado’s ever changing and extreme weather conditions and have been called upon in the event of emergencies and extreme weather events to assist in first responder search and rescue missions. This support unit responds to 24-hour system monitored alarm notifications indicating component trouble or failures, routine and preventive maintenance ensuring the highest level of system performance
and preventing interruptions in service and loss of availability.
and preventing interruptions in service and loss of availability.
ABOUT THE POSITION
This position is that of a working technical expert supporting federal, state, Tribal and local government agencies by maintaining microwave, telephone, two-way radio, digital trunked radio (DTR), data and video communications equipment and systems. This position has the responsibility to provide technical expertise in the installation and maintenance of the aforementioned equipment.
This position has supervisory responsibilities over the Telecommunications Specialists through project scheduling and instruction, including installation, modification, fabrication and calibration of new equipment and systems. This position will follow established procedures to provide ongoing preventive maintenance and failure resolution of systems and support equipment, creating and updating circuit and equipment records to fill public safety needs and inter-government requirements.
Duties include (but are not limited to):
Technical Assistance
This position assists in establishing installation, maintenance and operating processes and procedures. Provides field modifications, develops and constructs circuits, systems and peripheral communication assemblies using the manufacturer’s instructions, best practices and industry standards. Installs and repairs equipment and systems where little or no documentation is available. Assists in the installation of equipment to meet agencies requests and requirements. Updates instruction manuals and schematics involving various types of equipment serviced by the division. Conducts remote monitoring of microwave and statewide wireless network, daily, to ensure the availability and reliability of the network. When faults or issues regarding levels of service are detected, perform required repair and/or calibration activities in a timely, appropriate manner. Participates in all maintenance and installation of microwave systems, base/repeater station systems, two-way mobile radio and auxiliary equipment, including mobile vehicle installations. Performs maintenance and repairs of transmitter site buildings, grounds, fences, antennas and towers. This may include maintenance of environmental control, emergency power plant systems, painting of structures and grounds keeping. This position must be able to climb towers and install,
repair, remove, and assess the condition of the tower structure to include electrical grounds,
mounts, cable runs, clamps, attachments, antennas, microwave dishes, etc. cross members, bolts and nuts. This position must be able to properly operate test equipment. This position must also complete and stay current on all training and certification requirements. As well as, follow industry trends to stay current on telecommunications standards.
Documentation and Communication
Represents Communications Services professionally, in written correspondence, verbal exchanges, physical appearance/dress attire, as appropriate for this position. This position will read and consult their supervisor with respect to existing intergovernmental agreements or service level agreements as applicable to remote site responsibilities, access or customer locations. This position may also draw attention to changes that may be necessary in documented procedures. This position may be required to maintain asset tracking for the location, which will vary by shop.
Vehicle Maintenance and Access Support
Coordinate and perform normal maintenance and repair of assigned snow-cat (all-terrain vehicle) to ensure the availability and reliability of transportation to and from remote mountain top communication sites. Ensure access to remote sites and other service locations by coordinating and performing the repair of service roads. Provide preventative maintenance to emergency power plants, batteries and environmental control systems.
Emergency Assistance and Response
Provide emergency failure repair service restoration on a 24/7 on a call-back basis. Maintain public safety communication systems. Repair may require the use of a four-wheel vehicle and/or snow-cat (all-terrain snow vehicle), to reach remote locations under severe weather conditions. Use of vehicles may also be required for search and rescue and recovery operations. Must be able to assess aspects of remote, isolated site work and respond with proper tools, clothing, personal protective/defensive equipment and tools.
Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE)
Option 1:
Two (2) years of technical (hands-on) experience with land mobile radio (LMR), two-way radio, microwave, or applicable RF technology.
*Note: Application work history and supplemental questions must clearly articulate relevant professional experience as applicable to the position.*
Option 2 (Substitute):
A combination of related vocational education or technical (hands-on) experience with land mobile radio (LMR), two-way radio, microwave, or applicable RF technology equal to two (2) years.
*Note: A transcript as described under "Complete Applications" must be submitted at the time of application to meet this qualification.
REQUIRED SKILLS
- Ability to prioritize projects.
- Demonstrated strong critical thinking skills.
- Ability to make independent decisions within a broad procedural framework.
- Ability to multi-task.
- Strong organizational and follow up skills.
- Self-sufficient, highly motivated and team player.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment with consistency and reliability
- Hands on technical experience
- Technical Instruction experience
- Experience climbing towers or Current Tower Certification
- Current FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL)
- Hands on experience with HVAC and power generation systems
- Experience with operating and maintaining 4x4 trucks, side-by-side all terrain, and Sno-Cat vehicles
- Requires successful completion of a background investigation that includes a polygraph exam and a fingerprint based criminal history search.
- Valid Colorado Driver’s License or the ability to complete any travel requirement independently
- Designated Critical. Required to report without delay or interruption to provide essential or emergency services to ensure health, safety and welfare.
- Colorado Driver's License: Will travel between state communication equipment locations
- Use, Handling, or Exposure to hazardous materials: Will work with chemicals such as engine coolants, fuels, battery acid, grease, ATF hydraulic fluid, and lead.
- Must be obtained within 6 months of hire a FCC General Radiotelephone Operators License (GROL)
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Be able to climb towers of up to 400’ and ladders of up to 28’.
- Able to regularly bend, crouch, kneel, and crawl to complete equipment assessments, maintenance, installs, and deinstalls-removals. Dig trenches and cut trees.
- Perform at high altitude and hike to sites that do not have vehicle access.
- Able to work in all weather conditions.
- Must be certified to climb towers or be able to acquire certification within 6 months of hire and recertification every two (2) years.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- On call/shift work may be required in emergency situations
- Responds to 24-hour system monitored alarm notifications
- Physical position and work in all weather conditions
- In person position
If you receive notice that you have been eliminated from consideration for the position, you may protest the action by filing and appeal with the State Personnel Board/State Personnel Director within 10 days from the date your receive notice of the elimination. Also, if you wish to challenge the selection and comparative analysis process, you may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board/State Personnel Director within 10 days from receipt of notice or knowledge of the action you are challenging. Refer to Chapters 4 and 8 of the State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, 4 CCR 801, for more information about the appeals process. The State Personnel Board rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures are available at www.colorado.gov/spb. A standard appeal for is available at: www.colorado.gov/spb. If you appeal, your appeal must be submitted in writing on the official appeal form, signed by you or your representative, and received at the following address within 10 days of your receipt of notice or knowledge of action; Colorado State Personnel Board/State Personnel Director, Attn: Appeals Processing, 1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver, CO 80203. Fax: 303-866-5038. Phone: 303-866-3300. The ten-day deadline and these appeal procedures also apply to all charges of discrimination.
Supplemental Information
ADA ACCOMMODATIONS ASSISTANCE AND QUESTIONS
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal civil rights law that protects people with physical and mental disabilities and allows them the opportunity for employment with or without a reasonable accommodation. Please direct questions and requests for reasonable accommodations to [email protected]
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal civil rights law that protects people with physical and mental disabilities and allows them the opportunity for employment with or without a reasonable accommodation. Please direct questions and requests for reasonable accommodations to [email protected]
NOTIFICATIONS
All correspondence regarding your status in the selection/examination process will be via email. Include your current working email address on your application and check your email frequently as you could receive time sensitive correspondence regarding this position. We highly recommend that you set up your email to accept messages from "state.co.us" and "[email protected]" addresses. It is your responsibility to ensure that your email will accept these notices and/or review your junk mail and spam filtered email.
EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.
Colorado Department of Public Safety is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY - RECRUITMENT TIMELINE INFORMATION
- Applications are considered complete and accurate at the time of submission. Therefore, additional information may not be solicited or accepted after your application has been received.
- Closing Date: All applications that are received by the closing of this announcement will be reviewed against the Minimum Qualifications in this announcement. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications may proceed to the next step. Colorado Revised Statutes require that state employees are hired and promoted based on merit and fitness through a comparative analysis process.
- Supplemental Question: Effective responses to Supplemental Questions will directly relate to your professional experience, career accomplishments, and views about organizational values and approaches, and how they relate specifically to this position and requirements as you understand them. Answers generated by AI-tools will typically be unresponsive. Each answer (1-4) should be no longer than one page.
- Military Veterans: If you are a military veteran you must submit a copy of your DD-214, Member 4 Copy, and VA disability letter if available/applicable at the time of application so we can determine if you are eligible for veteran's preference points. Military personnel who are stationed outside of Colorado may be eligible for this position by submitting the completed DD-2058 "State of Legal Residence" form.
- Application Tips: For an overview of State of Colorado application process and application tips, please view this video.
- Resumes, Cover Letters, or other documents submitted: Will Not be reviewed, assessed, or used in the initial stages of the comparative analysis (transcripts submitted to verify that the applicant meets either the education requirement or minimum qualification substitution are exempt from this).
- Comparative Analysis: Include a structured application review by a panel of SMEs.
**Disclaimer: The duties and responsibilities described above are not a comprehensive list and additional tasks may be assigned to the employee, time to time; the scope of the job may change as necessitated by business demands. Click “View Application” below for more detail on this specific job.