Radio Technician

General Statement Of Duties

The Radio Technician performs skilled technical work installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing the Town’s two-way radio communications systems and related equipment (both existing and new equipment). This position ensures reliable and secure radio communication for public safety departments – primarily Police and Fire, as well as other Town departments as needed. The Radio Technician works under the direction of the Chief Information Officer and collaborates closely with department leaders, vendors, and regional communication partners to ensure operational readiness and compliance with state and federal communication standards.

Distinguishing Features Of The Class

An employee in this class performs specialized technical work involving public safety radio systems, including infrastructure, mobile, portable, and base radios, repeaters, dispatch consoles, and associated network components. Work requires a strong understanding of radio frequency (RF) systems, digital trunked radio networks, encryption standards, and communications interoperability. The employee must be able to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and respond to emergencies that impact communication systems.

Employee Values: Employees of the Town of Wake Forest are expected to uphold and exhibit the Town’s shared employee values of caring, commitment, character, and collaboration.

Duties And Responsibilities - Essential Duties And Tasks

• Installs, configures, tests, and maintains two-way radio equipment, base stations, repeaters, antennas, cabling, and dispatch consoles.
• Performs routine maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on radios used by Police, Fire, and other Town departments.
• Perform various services at and on communications tower sites, including, but not limited to, site and equipment maintenance, system use, and radio frequency compatibility to avoid interference problems.
• Provides preventive maintenance of communications equipment and systems.
• Responds to user requests of assistance or service for radio equipment.
• Coordinates with public safety personnel to resolve coverage or equipment issues in the field.
• Operates and maintains digital and analog electronic test equipment.
• Monitors and maintains the Town’s participation in regional or statewide radio networks.
• Programs and updates radios with proper talk groups, encryption keys, and firmware as required.
• Maintains accurate records of equipment inventory, repairs, and programming data.
• Prepare, manage, store, and locate written records of equipment inventory.
• Works with the IT Department to ensure radio systems integrate properly with the network and dispatch systems.
• Assists with planning and implementation of radio system upgrades and infrastructure improvements.
• Responds to after-hours emergencies related to radio system failures or incidents affecting communications.
• Provides user training and technical support for radio operations.
• Coordinates with vendors, contractors, and regional partners for maintenance, licensing, and system alignment.
• Ensure compliance with FCC rules and regulations.
• May be required to drive and travel to various site locations throughout Town.
• Attend meetings and training as required.
• Maintain positive working relationships with City employees, subscriber members, agencies, and partners.
• Performs related duties as required.
  
  

Recruitment and Selection Guidelines

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of radio communication principles, RF systems, and related technologies.
• Strong understanding of trunked radio systems, encryption standards, and interoperability protocols.
• Skill in using radio programming software, test equipment, and diagnostic tools.
• Ability to read and interpret technical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical personnel.
• Ability to plan and prioritize multiple projects while meeting deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and respond calmly under pressure during emergencies.
• Knowledge of public safety operations and communication needs preferred.
  
  

Desirable Education And Experience

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to an Associate's degree in Electronics Technology, Radio Communications, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Three (3) to five (5) years’ experience in radio communications maintenance and repair, preferably within a government or public safety environment. Direct experience as it relates to Motorola, Harris, or similar public safety radio systems preferred.

Special Requirement/ Conditions Of Employment

• Possession of a valid NC driver's license.
• FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) or equivalent certification preferred.
• Must pass a pre-employment physical and criminal history background check. (This position may be subject to periodic CJIS background checks (for positions requiring access to public safety facilities).
  
  

Physical Requirements

Work is performed in both office and field environments and may include exposure to electrical hazards, inclement weather, and elevated locations such as towers or rooftops. This position requires moderate physical activity, including lifting and carrying radio equipment components up to 100 lbs. This classification may be required to work evenings, weekends, and/or during emergencies.