800 MHz Radio System Manager

  • Full-time
  • Minimum Education Required: College degree

Company Description

A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact. 
As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.


What We Offer:
•    Impact - The work you do here matters to millions. 
•    Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it? 
•    Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
•    Benefits - We care about your well-being.
 

The Office of Innovation & Technology (OIT) is the central IT agency for the City of Philadelphia headed by the Chief Information Officer (CIO). OIT oversees all major information and communications technology initiatives for the City of Philadelphia - increasing the effectiveness of the information technology infrastructure, where the services provided are advanced, optimized, and responsive to the needs of the City of Philadelphia’s businesses, residents, and visitors. OIT responsibilities include: identifying the most effective approach for implementing new information technology directions throughout city government; improving the value of the city’s technology assets and the return on the city’s technology investments; ensuring data security continuity; planning for continuing operations in the event of disruption of information technology or communications services; and supporting accountable, efficient and effective government across every city department, board, commission and agency.

Job Description

We are seeking a proficient and detail-oriented 800 MHz Radio System Manager to oversee the daily operation, maintenance, and strategic management of the City of Philadelphia’s Public Safety radio communication system and assets. The ideal candidate will possess comprehensive knowledge of radio frequency (RF) technology, strong leadership skills, and a proven ability to effectively manage both technical operations, infrastructure, and asset inventories.

Essential Functions

  • Manage the operation and maintenance of the organization's 800 MHz radio system and associated infrastructure to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Manage the radio system vendor and the connectivity service provider to ensure contractual compliance and ongoing support for all city and partnering agencies. 
  • Collaborate with radio vendor and connectivity service providers to negotiate contracts, obtain competitive pricing, and ensure timely delivery of equipment and services.
  • Forecast, develop and manage the budget for 800 MHz radio system operations and asset management activities, including forecasting expenditures and optimizing costs.
  • Develop and implement comprehensive asset management strategies for all 800 MHz radio equipment, including radios, tower sites, dispatch centers and related inventory. 
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all 800 MHz radio assets, including serial numbers, configurations, maintenance history, and locations.
  • Coordinate the procurement, deployment, and retirement of 800 MHz radio equipment based on organizational needs, budgetary constraints, and technological advancements.
  • Conduct regular audits and physical inventories to verify the accuracy of asset records and ensure compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements.
  • Monitor the performance and condition of 800 MHz radio assets through regular inspections, testing, and preventive maintenance activities.
  • Coordinate coverage testing and manage the execution of out of building radio coverage remediation.
  • Provide technical expertise and guidance city and partnering agencies on operation and maintenance of 800 MHz radio equipment.
  • Evaluate and recommend upgrades or replacements of outdated equipment to enhance system performance, efficiency, and reliability.
  • Respond to emergencies and critical incidents related to 800 MHz radio systems and implement appropriate measures to mitigate risks.
  • Availability to respond to after-hours emergencies and participate in an on-call rotation schedule when necessary.
  • Manage all memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with partnering radio system user agencies. 
  • Duties as assigned related to the management of the 800 MHz radio system. 

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
  • Strong understanding of radio frequency (RF) technology, antenna theory, equipment specifications, and regulatory requirements related to 800 MHz radio systems.
  • Experience in asset management, procurement, or operations with a focus on telecommunications equipment.
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues and implement effective solutions under pressure.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Telecommunications, Information Technology, or a related field; or equivalent work experience.
  • Proven experience (5+ years) in managing 800 MHz radio communication systems and assets in a large organization or public safety environment.
  • Certifications such as Certified Asset Management Professional (CAMP), APCO Certified Public Safety Communications Technician (PST), or equivalent credentials are advantageous.

Additional Information

Salary Range: $90,000 - $100,000

Important: To apply, candidates must provide a cover letter and a resume.

Work Setting: in-person (onsite)

Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:
•    We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
•    Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
•    Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
•    Generous retirement savings options are available
•    Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.
•    Enjoy a Free Commute on SEPTA - Starting September 1, 2023, eligible City employees will no longer have to worry about paying for SEPTA public transportation. Whether you're a full-time, part-time, or provisional employee, you can seize the opportunity to sign up for the SEPTA Key Advantage Program and receive free Key cards for free rides on SEPTA buses, trains, trolleys, and regional rails.
•    Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too!
Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth!

*The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire

Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to [email protected].