Deputy Director of Communications

This description provides an overview of what will be expected of you but is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required. 

Essential Duties  

• Assist the Director of Communications in managing the overall operations of the 911 center, including supervising staff, scheduling shifts, and evaluating performance. 

• Collaborate with emergency services personnel, such as police, fire, and medical services, to ensure efficient and accurate dispatching of emergency calls. 

• Oversee and maintain communication systems, including radio networks, computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, and telephony systems, to ensure reliable and uninterrupted service. 

• Develop and implement communication protocols, standard operating procedures, and guidelines for emergency response operations. 

• Provide leadership and guidance to dispatchers during high-stress situations, ensuring adherence to established protocols and efficient handling of emergency calls. 

• Monitor and evaluate the performance of dispatchers, providing constructive feedback and implementing training programs to enhance their skills. 

• Assist in coordinating training programs for dispatchers, keeping them updated on the latest emergency response techniques, technology, and communication systems. 

• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards related to emergency communication and dispatch operations. 

• Collaborate with external agencies, such as neighboring 911 centers, law enforcement agencies, and emergency management organizations, to foster effective interagency communication and coordination. 

• Stay informed about advancements in emergency communication technology and recommend upgrades or enhancements to improve overall operations. 

• Perform duties of telecommunicator as needed. 

Non-Essential Duties: 

• Participate in meetings, committees, and conferences related to emergency communication and public safety to stay updated on industry trends and best practices. 

• Assist in preparing and managing the annual budget for the communications department, ensuring financial resources are allocated appropriately. 

• Support public relations and community outreach efforts to educate the public about the role of the 911 center and promote awareness of emergency services. 

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Communications or the higher authority. 

• Knowledge of budgetary, management, and leadership principles, practices, and procedures; relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions; ability to learn, policies, procedures, and guidelines established by professional organizations and/or governing agencies; federal, state and local laws, statutes, regulations, codes, and standards related to the area of responsibility.

• Skilled intalking to others to convey information effectively; use of standard office equipment and software; using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems; personnel resources management through motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.

• Ability tocommunicate and interact effectively with members of the public; handle difficult and stressful situations with professional composure; exercise sound judgment in making critical decisions; develop objectives, evaluate effectiveness, and assess needs; recognize, analyze, and solve a variety of problems; enforce security rules and regulations; plan, assign, and/or supervise the work of others

Qualifications:

Required: Driver’s License.  Bachelor’s degree with major coursework in emergency management, public safety, planning, public or business administration or closely related field preferred.Three years Supervisory experience.  Advanced coursework or certification in leadership, supervisory skills, or training preferred.    Desired: Master’s Degree

Hours of Work:

Standard hours of work are generally 8 hours a day (40 hours a week) and are generally worked between 6 am and 6 pm, Monday through Friday. Hours may fluctuate to complete the essential functions of the positions or as workload demands. Attendance at meetings, events, and emergencies outside of normal business hours are expected with the position. Availability to be contacted at any time of day is necessary.