Networks Manager

The Networks Manager is responsible for managing technical components of the Emergency Services’ communications system networks. The role is also responsible for project development in conjunction with vendors and end users of the systems. Supports the mission of the Department of Emergency Services by promoting and assisting in providing safety and security to Chester County citizens so they can work, live and grow in a healthy and safe community., All Department of Emergency Services employees are essential personnel and may be required to work during non-business hours for extended periods of time. Essential employee duties may involve assignments within the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), deployment to a field location, or other duties as required during periods of emergencies or training/exercise. Emergency assignments may be performed under adverse conditions, continue for periods ranging from a few hours to several weeks, and may require travel., * Performs system management and oversight for the department’s critical infrastructure networks to ensure 99.999% uptime.

• Ensures the security, protection and reliable safe operation of the department’s critical infrastructure networks.
• Utilizes the available monitoring tools to monitor networks for performance and health, and to identify any potential problems.
• Ensures that all systems and networks interact and transfer data correctly between each other.
• Liaisons with 3rd party support vendors as necessary to accomplish tasks and projects.
• Assists the department’s CAD Specialist in maintaining the Computer Aided Dispatch system and software, focusing on the infrastructure and workstations that support the 24/7/365 operation of the overall system.
• Provides system management and statistical data reports from the department’s critical infrastructure networks as needed.
• Performs programing and updates to both infrastructure and field responder components of the systems as needed.
• Provides technical support, education, and training to telecommunicators, staff and field users in the use of the department’s systems and equipment.
• Provides technical support to ensure continuous communications connectivity in support of both fixed and mobile emergency operations.
• Participates in budget preparation of the Technical Division’s annual budgets.
• Supervises and verifies proper system operation of the P25 Radio system network. Communicates any issues or problems to the appropriate vendor staff.
• Verifies proper operations of the Nokia Microwave system network and external site systems.
• Collects and reports technical system data and metrics for various reporting tools.
• Attends and participates in meetings as necessary with the Deputy Director of Technical Services, Technology Manager, vendors, emergency response agencies, and outside service providers on system issues.
• Verifies and diagnoses proper system operation of the Mobile Data System including Mobile Data Computers, Broadband routers, and FirstNet cellular SIMS.
• Assists in updating the programming of P25 mobile and portable radios.
• Develops collaborative relationships with federal, state, regional, county, municipal, and private sector partners.
• Supports and maintains the development of good working relationships with emergency responders.
• Maintains the highest level of safety for all activities.
• Assists with Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activations and drills.
• Serves in an On-Call capacity as part of the Technical division On-Call program rotation.
• Performs all other duties, tasks and special projects as assigned., * Relevant background checks, clearance, physicals, drug tests and any other assessments or evaluations will be conducted after an offer of employment is given per County policy.

Required for this role:

• All DES employees must successfully complete the following FEMA course within 6 months of hire:
• IS100 - Introduction to the Incident Command System
• IS200 - ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents
• IS700- National Incident Management System, An Introduction
• IS800 - National Response Framework, An Introduction
• IS2200 - Basic Emergency Operations Center Functions

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Information Technology, Computer Science, Network Engineering, or a related field or equivalent combination of training, education and experience.
• Five years of job-related experience.
• Relevant military experience may be considered.

Strong demonstrated abilities required:

• Verbal and written skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Customer Service skills
• Analytical/Problem Solving skills
• Presentation skills
• Instructional skills
• Project Management skills
• Prioritization/Multi-tasking skills
• Motivated/Works Independently
• Detail Oriented
• Confidentiality
• Honest, Integrity and Professionalism
• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn new tasks

Also required:

• Strong knowledge of public safety technology and communications systems including P25 Land Mobile Radio (LMR), paging systems, mobile data systems and microwave systems administration.
• Strong familiarity with Ethernet networking and common network hardware such as switches, routers, firewalls, and wireless access points.
• Basic understanding of TCP/IP networking concepts, including IP addressing, subnetting, routing, switching, DNS, and DHCP.
• Knowledge of network protocols including TCP, UDP, ICMP, ARP, and VLAN technologies.
• Ability to troubleshoot network connectivity issues using standard diagnostic tools and methodologies.
• Basic understanding of network security principles and best practices.
• Skill with database administration and data conversions.
• Ability to exercise sound judgement and coordinate resolutions to critical situations under all conditions.
• Ability to interface effectively with all levels of county government, public safety agencies, and stakeholders.
• Experience with network monitoring and management tools.
• Ability to travel between various county locations/Valid drivers license
• Ability to work a flexible schedule with extended hours during emergencies, as necessary
• Ability to work extended hours, including nights, weekends and holidays, occasionally
• Ability to attend meetings on and off site at various hours
• Ability to work on-call time, which may require working remotely

Preferred:

• Master’s Degree in Computer Science/Information Technology, GIS, or related field.
• Industry certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), or equivalent.
• Familiarity with enterprise networking platforms from Cisco Systems, Juniper Networks, Aruba Networks, or similar vendors.
• Exposure to wireless networking technologies and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with virtualization platforms and cloud networking concepts.
• Basic knowledge of scripting or automation tools such as PowerShell or Python.
• Experience gained through internships, lab environments, academic projects, or military communications systems.
• Knowledge and skill with Police/Fire/EMS dispatching and call-taking.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of Emergency Services Department policies and procedures.
• Strong working knowledge of Chester County public safety agencies, their mission, vision, and goals as well as strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of County of Chester policies and procedures.

Additional Information

Relevant background checks, clearances, physicals, drug tests, and any other assessments or evaluations will be conducted after an offer of employment is given per County policy. Computer/technical skills

• Advanced Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook
• Knowledge of networking commands such as Ping, TraceRoute, IConfig, etc.
• Configure and support Layer 2 switching technologies, including VLANs and trunking.
• Basic understanding of Layer 3 routing concepts, including static routes and dynamic routing protocols.
• Knowledge of network cabling standards and physical infrastructure.
• Ability to interpret network diagrams and documentation.
• Familiarity with packet capture and analysis tools such as Wireshark.
• Understanding of network access control and authentication concepts.
• Experience using ticketing systems and documenting technical work.
• Advanced Mobile Data Systems skills
• Advanced Database skills including familiarity with SQL and Oracle.
• Advanced Paging System Administration skills
• Working knowledge of Windows OS and creating bootable images.
• Knowledge of software installation, printer troubleshooting, network interface.
• Ability to learn internal proprietary software used by the Department of Emergency Services, including the following systems: Enterprise Wizard, Hexagon IDispatcher and Mobile for Public Safety (MPS), L3Harris, Unified Administration System (UAS), Sierra Wireless, AirLink Mobility Manager (AMM), Everbridge, etc.)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand and walk for extended periods
• Frequent use of hands/fingers for typing and operating standard office equipment
• Ability to hear and speak clearly and recognize and identify audible and visual signals
• Visual acuity to read computer screens and written documents, and distinguish colors
• Ability to climb or work on ladders, rarely
• Ability to lift to 50 pounds to a height of approximately 80 inches
• Ability to carry up to 50 pounds for up to 25 feet
• Ability to work with machinery

Work environment

• Moderate to loud noise level
• Rapidly changing work assignments
• Occasionally exposure to outside weather and adverse weather conditions
• Required to operate a motor vehicle, including in hazardous driving conditions
• System maintenance and interruptions require special working hours and conditions.
• Exposure to Radio Frequency Emissions with required monitoring of exposure levels