Communications Technologist

Under the general direction of the Supervisor of Communication Systems Operation, the Communication Technologist I installs, repairs, services/operates, supports, modifies, and troubleshoots a wide array of radio systems, communications equipment, and computer and electronic systems in support of emergency services and other City department operations. The position may be responsible for knowledge sharing between peers. Duties include organizing time, equipment and materials and maintaining records/documentation for specific jobs or ongoing maintenance programs, with tasks at times supervised by a Communication Technologist II.

This position is eligible for progression to a Communication Technologist II, dependent on completion of both the specified educational and experience requirements within the established time frames. Primary differences between the Communication Technologist I and II include:

• Planning and design of two-way radio site infrastructure equipment and radio user gear.
• Working alone and independently on all areas of responsibility as required during daytime or off-prime hours, including inclusion in an evening (16hx5) and weekend (24hx2) standby rotation for responding to mission-critical incidents.
• Monitoring/mentoring Communication Technologist I staff as required.

As the Communication Technologist I, you will:

• Repair and maintain two-way radio site infrastructure equipment and radio user gear across various radio communication standards, in collaboration with peers and under guidance from subject matter experts including Communication Technologist IIs.
• Test, repair and maintain various electronic communications equipment, in collaboration with peers and under guidance from subject matter experts.
• Perform technical documentation and cost estimates, in collaboration with peers and under guidance from subject matter experts.
• Perform technical support and maintenance of mission-critical computer systems software and hardware technologies in support of Public Safety Answering Points / Dispatch Centres, in collaboration with peers and under guidance from subject matter experts.

Your education and qualifications include:

• Diploma in Electronic Engineering Technology from a recognized Community College, or equivalent education (e.g., Applied Science Degree) as determined by Certified Technicians and Technologists Association of Manitoba (CTTAM).

• Membership or Letter of Qualification for Associate membership in CTTAM at the Electronic Technologist level.

• Network-related certifications, such as CCNA or equivalent, is considered an asset.

• Experience working with radio communication systems such as P25, DMR, LMR, radio hardware maintenance (mobiles, portables, consoles), antennas, base stations, and repeaters, is an asset.

• Experience in microelectronics and device repair and configuration such as tablets, computers and board level repair, and soldering / de-soldering of microelectronics components, is an asset.

• Experience with a variety of electronic test equipment is an asset.

• Experience with installing, configuring and supporting camera surveillance systems, public address systems and audio equipment, and telephony systems is an asset.

• Experience working within complex work environments in support of life safety and public safety, such as government agencies, is an asset.

• Experience in interpreting plans and technical specifications is an asset.

• Knowledge of engineering principles and practices as applied to electronic/communications terminology and concepts.

• Knowledge of two-way radio and radio system concepts.

• Skill and ability to perform electronic circuit board repair, including soldering and de-soldering.

• Ability to assemble simple circuits and test or align electronic equipment.

• Knowledge of testing, repair and maintenance fundamentals for a wide range of electronic communications equipment such as radio, video, audio and specialized electronic systems.

• Knowledge of basic computer network infrastructure, network technologies and internet protocols.

• Ability to troubleshoot and repair laptop or desktop computing equipment and software.

• Excellent verbal communication skills with a variety of contacts including engineers, users and suppliers.

• Excellent written communication with a variety of contacts including engineers, users and suppliers.

• Ability to input and track data and generate reports and manuals.

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with other employees, departments, vendors, and the public.

• Understanding of the of the occupational hazards and safety precautions, regulations, and procedures that are applicable to the position's area of work.

Additional qualifications required for Communication Technologist II include:

1. Planning and design of two-way radio site infrastructure equipment and radio user gear.

2. Experience working with radio communication systems, including some of the following: P25, DMR, LMR, radio hardware maintenance (mobiles, portables, consoles), antennas, base stations, repeaters, achieved with an established time frame and demonstrated by passing a progression test.

3. Experience in microelectronics and device repair and configuration such as tablets, computers and board level repair, soldering / de-soldering of microelectronics components, achieved with an established time frame and demonstrated by passing a progression test.

4. Experience with installing, configuring and supporting camera surveillance systems, public address systems and audio equipment, and telephony systems.

5. Experience in interpreting plans and technical specifications.

6. IMPORTANT: Applicants who have been educated outside of Canada must have education which is comparable to the minimum qualification in Canada. Applicants submitting foreign credentials require an official academic assessment report issued by a recognized Canadian assessment service at application.

Conditions of employment:

• The successful candidate must maintain legal eligibility to work in Canada. If the successful candidate possesses a work permit, it is their responsibility to ensure the permit remains valid.
• Candidates must receive and maintain a Winnipeg Police Services Level 3 security clearance.
• Must possess or apply for and receive a Manitoba Electrician's license of at least an "M-V" class within two (2) years from start date.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Manitoba Class 5 Driver's License.
• Must be physically able to perform the duties of the position – including lifting up to 50 lbs; ability to crawl into small spaces and ability to work outdoors and at heights as necessary.
• Willing to take additional courses and/or training as required.