Public Safety Technicial Systems Specialist

Under limited supervision, plans, coordinates, installs, maintains, and troubleshoots various PUBLIC SAFETY hardware/software systems for the Polk County Sheriff's Office. This includes, but is not limited to, the enhancement and support of the 911 emergency response and mobile data systems, data communications systems, jail and criminal records management systems and all related applications thereof, as well as electronic security/alarm systems. Recommends and coordinates implementation of new software and enhancement of existing systems to meet the Sheriff's Office operational needs. Coordinates with and supports Polk County Communication Center Subscriber Agencies to ensure interoperability and integration between systems.

1. Plans, organizes, and administers the implementation, enhancement and support of all hardware/software related to PUBLIC SAFETY systems including, but not limited to, the 911 emergency response system, mobile data systems, data communications systems, physical/digital evidentiary management systems, jail and criminal records management systems (and all related applications thereof) as well as all electronic security/alarm systems.
2. Participates in the preparation, planning, and development of specifications for current and future systems.
3. Meets with users and staff to identify current needs. Researches and evaluates the capabilities and costs of new and available technologies. Makes recommendations to management regarding improvements, purchases, and cost saving measures.
4. Installs, maintains and supports CAD and Mobile Data Computer (MDC) hardware/software, including the testing and configuration of upgrades. Troubleshoots problems with hardware/software and provides technical knowledge to assist users.
5. Assists in the preparation and evaluation of bid specifications and RFPs.
6. Assists with maintenance of database tables across a variety of PUBLIC SAFETY applications. Provides technical knowledge and assists users as needed.
7. Provides consultation and technical support of Subscriber Agencies to ensure interoperability and integration of systems among PUBLIC SAFETY agencies. Develops and implements interfaces between disparate computer/communication systems.
8. Works closely with vendors, contractors, and Polk County Information Technology to implement changes, resolve problems, and maintain relevant systems. Assures equipment and software is procured, installed, and maintained to meet requirements and specifications. Oversees contracted maintenance and repair services. Coordinates the installation, maintenance and repair of cabling and telephone systems with the Polk County I.T. department.
9. Monitors, analyzes, and evaluates performance of the systems and networks supported. Determines redundancies or deficiencies that negatively affect their performance and makes recommendations for improvement.
10. Reviews relevant technical professional publications, attends conferences, training, and seminars in order to maintain current knowledge of PUBLIC SAFETY related systems.
11. Installs, or coordinates the installation of, equipment required to support users. Troubleshoot systems to identify and isolate problems. Resolves, and/or makes contact with vendors for assistance in resolving difficult system problems. Provides ongoing technical and operational support to end users. Monitors project timelines to ensure delivery schedules are being met and recommends corrective action if appropriate.
12. Participates in a rotating on-call schedule to support 24/7 operations.
13. Performs related duties as required.

• Considerable knowledge and understanding of the vital importance technology play in the support of critical PUBLIC SAFETY services necessary towards the protection of the general public wellbeing.
• Considerable knowledge and experience in the installation, troubleshooting, administration and support of complex hardware/software applications.
• Knowledge of PUBLIC SAFETY organizations and related technology to include, but not limited to: dispatch, law enforcement patrol, criminal investigations, jail, courts, training and administration.
• Knowledge of telecommunication concepts (voice and data), methods, procedures, test equipment utilized in conducting electronic/communication system tests and computer aided dispatch systems.
• Knowledge of the methods, procedures, and test equipment utilized in conducting electronic/communication system tests.
• Knowledge of the layout and design of network/communication systems.
• Knowledge of current technological and conceptual developments in PUBLIC SAFETY systems.
• Knowledge of project management techniques.
• Ability to plan and coordinate projects.
• Ability to research, isolate and analyze problems with various software/hardware systems and implement effective solutions.
• Ability to conceptualize, analyze, plan, and carryout additions and changes to the network.
• Ability to prepare, read, and interpret schematics, blueprints, and wiring diagrams.
• Ability to identify the voice and data equipment requirements necessary to implement the operational plan.
• Ability to adapt to novel applications using existing knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to move equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to install complex hardware/software systems.
• Ability to distinguish colors of electrical wires.
• Ability to stoop, bend, twist, squat, kneel, push, pull, and reach.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, management staff, elected officials, law enforcement and fire officials, PUBLIC SAFETY agencies, vendors, and consultants.
• Ability to work beyond/outside of regular shift hours to troubleshoot and support critical IT hardware/software systems.

• Bachelor's degree in information systems, computer science, electronics, telecommunications or communications, and
• One year of experience in the installation, repair and maintenance of PUBLIC SAFETY systems related to dispatch, law enforcement patrol, criminal investigations, jails, courts, training and administration, or
• Associate's degree in information systems, computer science, electronics, telecommunications, or communications, and
• Three years of experience in the installation, repair, and maintenance of PUBLIC SAFETY system related to dispatch, law enforcement patrol, criminal investigations, jails, courts, training, and administration, or
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

• Candidate must pass the Ishihara Test for Color Deficiency.
• A criminal background check is required.
• A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment.
• A valid State of Iowa driver's license is required.
• Certification in CJIS (Criminal Justice Information Systems) is required within twelve months of hire.

Polk County is committed to providing a diverse work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.

Polk County believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to our success in serving and empowering our community and to our continued commitment to be one of the nation's most innovative public institutions.