Radio Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary Under general supervision, performs skilled technical work involving the installation, programming, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and optimization of County-wide public safety communications systems. This includes P25 trunked radio systems, microwave communications, dispatch console systems, radio frequency (RF) equipment, network infrastructure, and related communications technologies supporting emergency services and County operations. Performs emergency response work during communications outages and other duties as assigned This position routinely performs field work at tower locations in varying weather conditions.

Duties include lifting equipment, climbing ladders, responding to emergency communications outages, and participating in a 24-hour emergency on-call rotation supporting public safety and regional interoperability operations. Key Responsibilities Install, configure, service, maintain, and optimize a variety of communications systems and electronic equipment, including P25 trunked radio systems, FM land mobile radios, microwave communications equipment, portable and mobile radios, repeaters, paging equipment, base stations, dispatch consoles, E9-1-1 call display and routing equipment, communications controllers, and system management terminals. Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair communications network infrastructure, including wireless communications equipment, fiber optic systems, T1/DS1 circuits, channel banks, multiplexers, routers, automatic protection switches, and other data transport equipment supporting County communications systems.

Develop, modify, test, and deploy radio code plugs and programming for Motorola and other approved communications equipment manufacturers. Perform setup, modifications, and upgrades to communications equipment by using computer software to program required and customized specifications, configurations, priority levels, and software installations. Assist with the maintenance and monitoring of backup generators, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, and other critical communications infrastructure.

Maintain the security of radio sites and coordinate site access with contractors, vendors, utility providers, and partner agencies performing maintenance or infrastructure improvements. Test communications equipment and system performance to verify compliance with manufacturer specifications, FCC regulations, operational standards, and system compatibility requirements. Continuously monitor communications systems to identify equipment failures, performance issues, or deviations from normal operating conditions and initiate appropriate corrective action.

Diagnose and repair malfunctions in communications and electronic equipment by utilizing computerized diagnostics, technical manuals, wiring diagrams, schematics, and component-level troubleshooting techniques. Test repaired equipment to ensure proper operation and system reliability. Install, program, maintain, and repair communications systems and dispatch consoles supporting County E9-1-1 communications centers, including microwave communications networks.

Schedule and prioritize maintenance activities and respond to service requests in a timely manner. Provide technical guidance and training to County employees and partner agencies regarding the proper operation, maintenance, care, and regulatory requirements of communications and electronic equipment. Maintain accurate and detailed records of inspections, maintenance activities, repairs, programming changes, labor, parts usage, inventory, and other service information utilizing computerized maintenance management systems and databases.

Install, test, maintain, and optimize in-building bidirectional radio frequency (RF) amplification systems to ensure reliable public safety radio communications within mission-critical facilities. Perform preventative maintenance and periodic optimization of trunked radio systems, microwave networks, and supporting communications infrastructure to maximize system reliability and performance. Participate in a rotating 24-hour on-call schedule and respond to emergency communications outages affecting County public safety systems.

Coordinate emergency communications support with neighboring counties and regional partner agencies as needed. Maintain electronic testing equipment, specialized tools, vehicles, and work areas in a clean, organized, and operational condition. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with County departments, public safety agencies, vendors, contractors, partner organizations, and coworkers.

Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications High School Diploma or GED Two (2) years of post-high school work experience in the installation, repair, or maintenance of FM land-mobile, or microwave communications equipment or consoles and/or two (2) years of IT experience. Post-secondary education from an accredited technical school, college, or university in electronics, telecommunications, radio communications, information technology, or a closely related field may substitute for one (1) year of the required experience.

FCC License or General Radio Operators License preferred. Valid driver's license with automobile insurance. Knowledge Skills & Abilities Comprehensive knowledge of the principles, practices, equipment, and operating procedures associated with public safety trunked radio, land mobile, microwave, and communications systems.

Comprehensive knowledge of the methods, techniques, tools, and best practices used to install, maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and optimize communications and electronic systems. Comprehensive understanding of radio frequency (RF) technology, including digital communications, microwave systems, trunked radio systems, microprocessor-controlled equipment, RF-related mathematics, circuit design and electronics. Working knowledge of computer-based communications systems, including P25 trunked radio simulcast systems, network monitoring software, computerized diagnostics, and system management applications.

Working knowledge of IP networking concepts and communications infrastructure, including Ethernet, fiber optic systems, routers, switches, T1/DS1 circuits, multiplexers, automatic protection switches, and related networking equipment. Proficiency in the operation, calibration, maintenance, and proper use of electronic diagnostic equipment, specialized testing instruments, software applications, and hand tools. Thorough understanding of applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, codes, standards, and FCC requirements governing radio communications systems and installations.

Ability to work on a ladder, at heights up to 20 feet (for things such as installing or servicing cabling or antennas on buildings). Demonstrated problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose equipment failures, identify root causes, and implement timely, effective repairs. Ability to interpret technical manuals, wiring diagrams, blueprints, schematics, specifications, and manufacturer documentation.

Effectively instruct and support users in the operation, programming, maintenance, and care of communications equipment and systems. Proficiency in using computer systems and database applications to accurately document maintenance activities, repairs, inventory, and other technical records. Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate technical information clearly and professionally.

Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prepare, maintain, and manage accurate reports, service records, maintenance logs, and other technical documentation. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with County departments, public safety agencies, vendors, contractors, partner organizations, and co-workers. Commitment to providing professional and respectful service while working effectively with individuals from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, educational, racial, ethnic, and professional backgrounds.