Communications Systems Specialist I (#MFAA01)
$34,240.00 Yearly Min / $42,800.00 Yearly Mid / $51,360.00 Yearly Max

Communications Systems Specialist II (#MFAA02)
$38,770.00 Yearly Min / $48,463.00 Yearly Mid / $58,156.00 Yearly Max

Communications Systems Specialist III (#MFAA03)
$46,714.00 Yearly Min / $58,393.00 Yearly Mid / $70,072.00 Yearly Max

Communications Systems Supervisor (#MFAA04)
$52,894.00 Yearly Min / $66,118.00 Yearly Mid / $79,342.00 Yearly Max

Communications Systems Manager (#MFAA05)
$59,894.00 Yearly Min / $74,867.00 Yearly Mid / $89,840.00 Yearly Max

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Description of Occupational Work

Employees in this class series support statewide communications systems infrastructure by performing technical electronics work, including the configuration, installation, removal, repair, modification, and alignment of statewide communications systems and related equipment, for state, county, and municipal government agencies, and fire and emergency medical services.

This class series encompasses skill in hands-on technical work, problem solving, and customer service, as well as knowledge of communications and related computer systems, technology, hardware, software, networks, peripheral devices, and equipment. Employees follow all state, federal, and local laws, rules, and regulations during installation and maintenance tasks and ensure compliance with industry standards. In addition, employees provide communications support during natural disasters, large-scale public events, and other incidents, requiring rapid system configuration, troubleshooting, and inter-operability coordination. Work involves responding to fast-paced requirements and evolving technology, as well as traveling to various locations statewide.

Note: Advancement of employees through the career ladder is dependent on an agency's/department's operational needs and distribution of work. The career ladder incorporates levels I, II, and III; therefore, all positions allocated into the Communications Systems Specialist career ladder are classified at the III level (the highest level in the career ladder). The I level is to provide entry for hiring new employees into the class series but does not preclude hiring new employees at higher levels. To implement the career ladder, current employees are assigned to the level for which they meet job requirements and promotional standards. Employees may be promoted through the career ladder in accordance with promotional standards for those levels assigned to an agency. The promotional standards, a selection document under separate cover, set forth the criteria that identify, measure, and verify successful performance at each level. The promotional standards, a selection document under separate cover, set forth the criteria that identify, measure, and verify successful performance at each level.

The Communications Systems Supervisor and Communications Systems Manager, although not part of the career ladder, provide competitive opportunities for movement of employees.

Essential Functions

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, employees can complete job duties of a similar kind not specifically listed here.

Performs technical electronics work to ensure the operation and maintenance of the state’s communications systems such as 800 MHz digital radio and microwave communications systems, analog, conventional, and digital trunked radio systems, and public address systems; and related equipment such as mobile, portable, rugged, and durable radios, base stations, repeaters, scanners, antennas, towers, 911 consoles, controllers, vehicular adapters, emergency lighting, cameras, microphones, headsets, amplifiers, speakers, radar and VASCAR equipment, and sirens.

Configures, installs, removes, repairs, modifies, and aligns communications systems and related equipment, hardware, software, and peripheral devices, wiring, and cabling, ensuring connectivity and functionality.

Conducts regular monitoring and testing to ensure performance and reliability.

Delivers customer service and technical support to users, which includes responding to and resolving inquiries, requests, and other problems.

Identifies, troubleshoots, diagnoses, and resolves technical issues, errors, or malfunctions. May work with vendors and contractors on maintenance and repair of equipment due to warranty and maintenance agreements.

Plans, schedules, tests, and installs regular software and hardware updates, upgrades, or enhancements and integrates into existing systems.

Uses a variety of specialized and diagnostic tools and test equipment, including computers and related software, to program, install, optimize, maintain, and troubleshoot systems.

Completes continuing education and stays updated on advancements in related technology and industry best practices.

Requisitions, processes, and controls inventory, and maintains records, logs, and databases of maintenance work and related activities.

Performs other related duties as required.

Levels of Work

The levels of work for this class series progresses based on an employee’s independence, size and scope of responsibilities, complexity of duties, decisions made and required experience.

Communications Systems Specialist I

This is entry level Communications Systems Specialist work, responsible for the configuration, installation, removal, repair, modification, and alignment of statewide communications systems and related equipment, for state, county, and municipal government agencies, and fire and emergency medical services. Employees perform the full range of Essential Functions, completing routine and standardized assignments under close supervision.

Receives close supervision from a technical or administrative supervisor; the supervisor provides specific instructions on all assignments, and frequent and detailed review of progress, accuracy, and quality of work. Supervisory advice or assistance is readily available.
Performs routine and less complex operation, preventative maintenance, and configuration of communications systems and related equipment, and assists higher-level staff with more complex work such as in installation, troubleshooting, and repair.
Delivers first-level customer service support by logging and documenting customer requests, questions, or other information, performing preliminary troubleshooting to establish facts, obtaining and interpreting information or errors, and determining next steps or probable solutions.
Seeks guidance from higher-level staff on work that is outside a range of specified, acceptable procedures, standards, alternatives, and practices.
Learns methods to identify, troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve technical issues, errors, and malfunctions.
Understands subscriber programming to the basic level and programs and upgrades subscriber units, utilizing various software programs and test equipment.
Communicates effectively with state, county, and municipal users, managers and state legislators to gather, evaluate, coordinate, and provide information.

Communications Systems Specialist II

This is experienced level Communications Systems Specialist work, responsible for the configuration, installation, removal, repair, modification, and alignment of communications systems and related equipment, for state, county, and municipal government agencies, and fire and emergency medical services. In addition to work performed at the Communications Systems Specialist I level, independently perform the full range of Essential Functions under general supervision.

Receives general supervision from a technical or administrative supervisor; the supervisor provides general direction on all assignments, and regular review of progress, accuracy, and quality of work. Supervisory advice or assistance is provided as needed.
Independently completes installation, removal, and repair work to the component level, and programs, modifies, aligns, and calibrates related equipment.
Configures and manages subscriber units (radios/other equipment), which may include loading specific IDs/talk groups/channels, security keys, or other functions, and ensuring secure operation on applicable networks. Coordinates with system administrators for network access/identity.
Delivers intermediate customer service and technical support to respond to and resolve inquiries, requests, and problems, requiring an in-depth understanding of communications and related computer systems, technology, hardware, software, networks, peripheral devices, and equipment, and provides training to users.
Identifies, troubleshoots, and resolves technical issues, errors, and malfunctions that are often unclear and difficult to diagnose.
Operates regional network management computers for system alarms, monitors system alarms, and takes appropriate action.
Participates in special assignments and projects.
Provides hands-on training and oversight to staff in performing upgrades, making repairs, and providing customer service.
Communicates effectively with state, county, and municipal users and managers, state legislators, and the Governor to provide technical guidance, direction, and recommendations on communications systems matters.

Communications Systems Specialist III

This is advanced level Communications Systems Specialist work, responsible for the configuration, installation, removal, repair, modification, and alignment of communications systems and related equipment, for state, county, and municipal government agencies, and fire and emergency medical services. In addition to work performed at the Communications Systems Specialist II level, employees independently perform complex work with minimal supervision. Examples of factors contributing to complexity include applying thorough understanding of programming and maintaining systems subscriber units, consoles, and zone controllers, including integration within the 911 communications system, managing encryption hardware and radio frequency (RF) signal propagation adjustments, leading system-wide upgrades, and implementing new public safety technologies involving expensive equipment/costly repairs.

Receives minimal supervision from a technical or administrative supervisor; the supervisor defines objectives, priorities, and deadlines and assists the employee with unusual situations.
Performs complex configuration, installation, removal, repair, modification, and alignment of all aspects and components of communications systems infrastructure.
Delivers escalated customer service support to respond to and resolve complex inquiries and requests that involve problems not encountered before and may require non-standard device configuration.
Provides basic network design, redesign, and upgrades such as the location for switches, hubs, cable runs, and other network devices, and build operational networks.
Assists higher-level staff with advanced 800 MHz system management; performs essential system management, and operates regional network management computers for system alarms, responds to alarms by interrogating the system, determines the locality of the trouble, and locates malfunctions down to the circuit board level.
Leads staff by assigning, monitoring, and reviewing work and providing on-the-job training, guidance, and direction.
Leads special assignments and projects and ensures contractor compliance with specifications and approval of procured services and products.
Works with other technicians and engineers to design and implement communications solutions.
Communicates effectively with state, county, and municipal users and managers, state legislators, and the Governor to provide technical guidance, direction, and recommendations on complex communications systems matters.

Communications Systems Supervisor

This level supervises Communications Systems Specialist work at the division level, including the configuration, installation, removal, repair, modification, and alignment of communications systems and related equipment, for state, county, and municipal government agencies, and fire and emergency medical services. In addition to work performed at the Communications Systems Specialist III level, employees perform and supervise communications systems work, research and resolve escalated issues, and ensure the proper training and development of staff.

Receives general direction and guidance from a manager or higher in terms of broad goals and objectives; the employee establishes the methods for achieving goals and objectives and supervises daily operations.
Manages field upgrades involving complex integration between systems and network-based components and oversees the maintenance of towers, equipment, and shelters statewide.
Supervises two or more merit full-time positions. The elements of supervision include performing the following on a regular and continuing basis: planning, assigning, reviewing, evaluating, coaching, training, disciplining, and recommending hire, termination, and promotion.
Evaluates workflow, priorities, and performance, and makes recommendations for improvements, including determining the need for major system, network or other updates, upgrades, and enhancements.
Identifies the cause, location, and type of system alarm and directs personnel to correct the problem.
Determines resource requirements, requisitions parts and equipment, ensuring proper storage and control, and maintains assigned vehicles, buildings, and other resources.
Supports and leads cross-jurisdictional coordination efforts, special assignments, and projects, sets timelines and goals, and assists in disaster recovery planning.
Communicates effectively with agency leadership, and a variety of agency staff, as well as clients, vendors, or others to ensure compliance and efficiency of communications system operations and to resolve complex or unusual challenges.

Communications Systems Manager

This level manages Communications Systems Specialist work at the division level, including the configuration, installation, removal, repair, modification, and alignment of communications systems and related equipment, for state, county, and municipal government agencies, and fire and emergency medical services. Work is distinguished from previous levels by managing communications systems infrastructure through supervisory staff that directly report to this class.

Receives general direction and guidance from an administrative supervisor in terms of broad goals and objectives; the employee establishes the methods for achieving goals and objectives and manages daily operations.
Manages statewide communications systems infrastructure that facilitates global connectivity and the secure and efficient flow of information by planning, supervising, evaluating, and overseeing daily operations and services and ensuring goals and objectives are met.
Supervises two or more merit full-time positions, one of which must be at the supervisory level. The elements of supervision include performing the following on a regular and continuing basis: planning, assigning, reviewing, evaluating, coaching, training, disciplining, and recommending hire, termination, and promotion.
Provides technical expertise to other agencies; writes specifications for new equipment and systems; evaluates bids and proposals; coordinates with vendors during Request for Proposals (RFP) and assists in the final selection of the successful contractor; supervises operations during system installation, testing, and acceptance.
Participates with department staff in the development and implementation of strategic initiatives, programs, services, policies, and procedures, including contingency plans, and functional enhancements.
Performs trend analysis of system malfunctions and other data and oversees the preparation of reports.
Attends and evaluates technical training courses to meet the division's training requirements; attends vendor demonstrations to expand knowledge of new communications techniques; schedules employees to attend training.
Plans, develops, manages, and reports on budgets, grants, and/or contracts.
Communicates effectively with other divisions, a variety of agencies/organizations, officials, legislators, and contractual staff to ensure that all program and service needs and objectives are met and an effective continuity of services is provided.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

The listed knowledge, skills, and abilities give a general indication of the core requirements for all positions in the class series; therefore, the KSAs listed are not exhaustive or necessarily inclusive of the needs of every position in the class.

Knowledge of the maintenance and operation of data/voice/video/imaging communications and related computer systems, technology, hardware, software, networks, peripheral devices, and equipment.
Knowledge of Radio Frequency (RF) engineering concepts.
Knowledge of Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and other applicable state and federal laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures, and industry standards.
Knowledge of statewide communications infrastructure supporting public safety.
Knowledge of the methods and techniques used to monitor, test, calibrate, and troubleshoot communications systems and equipment.
Knowledge of subscriber programming to the basic level.
Skill in using specialized and diagnostic tools and test equipment, including computers and related software.
Skill in identifying and resolving problems within established procedures, practices, and standards.
Skill in soldering components.
Ability to use sound judgment and reach logical conclusions.
Ability to communicate effectively, through written, electronic, or face-to-face interactions.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records and inventory.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Communications Systems Specialist II requires:

Knowledge of regional network management operations.
Knowledge of the theory, components, and configuration of encryption equipment or other technology to maintain secure communications.
Skill in installing, removing, and repairing communications systems and related equipment to the component level.
Skill in planning, installing, programming, and testing updates, upgrades, or enhancements.
Skill in delivering customer service and technical support to resolve inquiries, requests, and problems.
Skill in monitoring, testing, calibrating, and troubleshooting applicable systems and equipment.
Ability to identify and resolve more complex issues, errors, and malfunctions that are difficult to diagnose.
Ability to provide customer and staff training in the use of communications systems and equipment.
Ability to resolve issues independently and escalate as appropriate.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills, and abilities, the Communications Systems Specialist III requires:

Knowledge of emerging communications systems technology.
Knowledge of project management.
Skill in advanced configuration, installation, removal, and repair of communications systems and related equipment.
Skill in assisting with regional network management operations.
Ability to integrate upgrades, updates, or enhancements into existing communications systems.
Ability to resolve complex or unusual issues, errors, and malfunctions.
Ability to provide on-the-job training, guidance, and direction to staff.
Ability to respond to fast-paced requirements and evolving technology.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Communications Systems Supervisor requires:

Knowledge of the principles and practices of supervision.
Skill in ensuring compliance of unit work with applicable state and federal laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures, and industry standards.
Skill in project management.
Skill in overseeing the maintenance of accurate records, documents, and reports.
Ability to resolve escalated issues and challenges.
Ability to set unit priorities, performance standards, and monitor outcomes.
Ability to determine the need for major system, network, or other updates, upgrades, and enhancements.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Communications Systems Manager requires:

Knowledge of the principles and practices of communications infrastructure management to promote public safety operations.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of budget, grant, and/or contract management and control.
Knowledge of policy and procedure development, implementation, and evaluation.
Knowledge of developing short- and long-range strategic plans.
Skill in supervising staff.
Skill in anticipating and resolving challenges and risks and making improvements.
Ability to work with other contractors and engineers to design and implement communication solutions.
Ability to prepare and analyze required state and federal reports.
Ability to analyze training programs to make improvements.

Job Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Communication Systems Specialist III
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

Three years’ experience in performing technical electronics work involving the operation or maintenance of communications systems or related equipment.
Three years’ experience in installing, maintaining, and replacing communications equipment such as analog, digital or two-way radios or other related communications equipment.
Three years’ experience in soldering and repairing electronic components to the circuit board level.
One year of experience in interpreting Federal Communications Commission (FCC) laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures.
Possession of a valid Driver's License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving)


CLASS: MFAA01	EST: 7/1/1996	REV:	FORMERLY JOB CLASS: 75510

CLASS: MFAA02	EST: 7/1/1996	REV:	FORMERLY JOB CLASS: 75511

CLASS: MFAA03	EST: 7/1/1996	REV:	FORMERLY JOB CLASS: 75512

CLASS: MFAA04	EST: 7/1/1996	REV:	FORMERLY JOB CLASS: 75513

CLASS: MFAA05	EST: 7/1/1996	REV:	FORMERLY JOB CLASS: 75514