Communications Systems Technician II

Position Description

The City of Tacoma and Tacoma Public Utilities is establishing an eligible list for Communications Systems Technician II which will be used to fill vacancies for one year.

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Do you find personal satisfaction from building and maintaining communications infrastructure? Are you the type who enjoys solving complex puzzles? Do you like the idea of being a part of a team focused on your personal success and professional growth, as well as of those we serve? If yes, this might be a great fit for you!

The City of Tacoma is creating a new civil service list for Communications Systems Technician II. The Communications Tech II perform skilled technical duties in the installation, repair, and maintenance of Tacoma Public Utilities (TPU) and City of Tacoma (COT) communications systems and supporting infrastructure.

Tacoma Public Utilities currently has one opening focused on physical security systems, and is anticipating a second opening focused on telephony/unified communications in the coming months.

Responsibilities Include:
Assignments may be focused on one or more specific communication systems such as:

• Install, program, maintain, repair, and operate a variety of networking, computing and system-specific equipment associated with systems listed above.
• Analyzing equipment performance problems, implementing repairs as needed, scheduling system outages, performing end-to-end system tests, coordinating new installations, sharing tools or equipment.
• Determine appropriate methods of repair, maintenance and installation to minimize damage to equipment, potential for personal injury or revenue loss due to equipment downtime.
• Support and assist end users as needed.

In this role, teams are truly focused on your success and professional development. This is a cornerstone of our company's culture. You will have an opportunity to learn and develop from some of the most capable and passionate professionals in our field.

Qualifications

Graduation from high school or equivalent and one of the following:

• A combination of 4 years' of work experience in the installation, maintenance and repair of electronic communications equipment, RF technology or computer networking

OR

• Two years' of work experience in the installation, maintenance and repair of electronic communications equipment AND an Associate’s degree or a vocational college certificate of completion in communications electronics, RF technology or computer networking.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Depending on position, a valid FCC-approved General Radiotelephone Operator’s License (PG) or certification by an industry-approved and FCC-endorsed program by completion of probation with maintenance thereafter may be required
• Valid Washington State driver's license at time of application with maintenance thereafter
• First-aid /CPR certification by completion of probation with maintenance thereafter.
• Completion and maintenance of training, following hire, required by WAC 296-45 to work in the vicinity of energized equipment ( not applicable to all positions)
• Must be able to pass background screening for applicable security access and maintain security clearance.

Knowledge & Skills

• Methods, materials and terminology used in the installation, repair and maintenance of a variety of Network and Communications systems and security equipment.
• Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations pertaining to applicable communications systems.
• Electronic theory and standard electrical wiring procedures.
• Circuit analysis and trouble shooting.
• Operation of specialized tools, test equipment, man lift trucks and other devices commonly operated in the trade. (not applicable to all positions)
• Configuration and operation of computers, microprocessors and computer peripherals. ( not applicable to all positions)
• Interpret and apply related laws, rules, codes, policies and procedures.
• Read and interpret schematic, wiring and digital drawings.
• Identify and isolate electrical and/or electronic problems and equipment malfunctions.
• Maintain records and prepare reports.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Safely work at heights from antenna towers, platforms or man lift trucks. ( not applicable to all positions)
• Observe adequate safety precautions against occupational hazards.

Selection Process & Supplemental Information

This recruitment is being managed by Kye Merritt if you would like to be notified of similar opportunities or stay connected with things going on at Tacoma Public Utilities and the City of Tacoma, connect with me on LinkedIn.

City of Tacoma Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Tacoma's diversity is its greatest asset. Tacoma embraces its multi-cultural and multi-ethnic character. Communities of color and immigrant communities are fundamental to Tacoma's entrepreneurial spirit, workforce, and long-term success. In Tacoma, equity and empowerment are top priorities, meaning that all Tacoma residents must have equitable opportunities to reach their full potential and share in the benefits of community progress. One of our goals is for the City of Tacoma workforce to reflect the community it serves. We actively work to eliminate racial and other disparities and welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and/or multicultural skill sets and experiences. Our goal is for Tacoma to be an inclusive and equitable place to live, work, and play.

The City of Tacoma is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workplace. Applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital or veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, and local laws.

Tacoma Power
Tacoma Power is an almost 100% hydroelectric, municipally-owned public power utility, located in Tacoma. We serve approximately 170,000 customers as one of the three operating divisions of Tacoma Public Utilities, alongside Tacoma Water and Tacoma Rail. As one of the most livable, walkable cities in the country, you'll find that Tacoma is a great fit for all interests with places to bike, run, hike, and explore, the perks of a big city, and the charm of a small town.

City Of Tacoma - Information Technology Department
The Information Technology Department’s Public Safety Radio Communications Team provides customized radio communications services and associated end user device support for internal and external customers. Our services enable public safety and public service agencies throughout Tacoma and the Central Puget Sound Metropolitan Area to reliably communicate with each other in real time, on scene and whenever necessary. Operating from the Radio Service Center (RSC) in the Fleet Building adjacent to Tacoma Police Department headquarters, our customers include Tacoma General Government departments, Police and Fire/EMS agencies, E911 dispatch agencies, ambulance companies, hospitals, and other public service organizations.

Apply
Interested individuals should apply online and attach a resume and cover letter that includes major responsibilities and accomplishments related to the position.

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will have their supplemental questions scored by subject matter experts. Applicants who pass will be placed on the eligible list for interview and hiring consideration.

Appointment is subject to passing a background check. This position is covered by a Labor Agreement between the City of Tacoma and Local 483. New employees must successfully complete a nine-month probationary period prior to obtaining permanent status in this classification.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Lifting up to 50 pounds unassisted
• Ascending and descending towers over 75 feet (*not applicable to all positions)
• Working in confined spaces (*not applicable to all positions)
• Requires pulling and pushing
• Must be able to distinguish and identify color coded devices, wire and fiber cabling
• Must be able to communicate and respond effectively
• Indoor and Outdoor environment
• Driving from site to site to conduct work
• Subject to adverse weather conditions and extended working hours
• May be exposed to fumes, noise and electrical hazards

Communication from the City of Tacoma:
We primarily communicate via e-mail during the application process. E-mails from cityoftacoma.org and/or governmentjobs.com must be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk e-mail folders.

If you have any additional questions regarding this position, please contact the Human Resources Department at 253.591.5400.

The City of Tacoma provides excellent medical, dental and vision plans for the whole family; paid holidays and paid leave; participation in the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System (alternate plan for Police/Fire); continuing education and advancement opportunities and a growing variety of City-sponsored health and wellness opportunities and incentives.

Medical Coverage: For eligible employees and their families, including domestic partners and dependent children age26 or younger.

Dental Coverage: For eligible employees and their families, including domestic partners and dependent children age26 or younger.

Vision Coverage: For eligible employees and their eligible dependents.

Paid Leave: City employees are entitled to received paid holidays, sick/vacation leave or personal time off (PTO), depending upon union affiliation and appointment type.

Insurance Plans: Employees are covered by a long-term disability plan. Short-term and expanded long-term disability insurance plans are also available to employees. The State Industrial Insurance Act also covers employees.

Deferred Compensation: Income can be set aside on a pretax basis and invested for supplementation of normal retirement income.

Retirement: All employees of the City, except members of the Police and Fire services, Tacoma Rail and certain project employees, are included in the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System. Information on the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System can be found at www.cityoftacoma.org or by calling (253) 502-8200.

Other Employment Information

Direct Deposit: Employees are paid on a bi-weekly schedule by direct deposit.

Salary Increases: Based on satisfactory job performance, the City provides for a regular progression of salary increases for most classifications according to the salary schedule.

Union Affiliation: Many job classifications are covered by union security provisions which require union membership, dues, or payment of equivalent service fees.

Note: The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained herein may be modified and/or revoked without notice.

Closing Date/Time: 10/22/2024 5:00 PM Pacific

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• City of Tacoma

• 253-591-5400

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