What are the responsibilities and job description for the Fire District Radio Systems Administrator position at West Metro Fire Rescue?
The Radio Systems Administrator is responsible for the maintenance, repair, programming, and operational readiness of handheld and vehicle-mounted radio systems used by the fire district. This full-time role is responsible for the planning, implementation, maintenance, and modernization of radio communications infrastructure, fire station alerting systems, and the cellular program. This position ensures 24/7/365 operational readiness of mission-critical communications systems and supports regional interoperability, cybersecurity, and strategic planning. This role requires a candidate with deep technical knowledge, strong vendor and contract management skills, and the ability to lead complex communications initiatives across multiple platforms and agencies. This position will report to the Deputy Chief of Support Services.
Radio Systems Engineering & Oversight
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Ability to use and operate a wide variety of office automation equipment and software, including spreadsheet applications, database management, record storage and retrieval systems, and word processing.
Understands District’s products, tools, systems, and functionality.
Possess interpersonal skills necessary to effectively work with other District members and third-party providers.
Ability to work both independently and as a team member.
Expert in the use of 700/800 MHz and multiband radio devices.
Familiarity with core communications networking equipment.
Ability to train non-technical system users.
Must be able to achieve a fitness level of 10 METs (metabolic equivalents) during an annual test administered by the Wellness Director, demonstrating sufficient cardiovascular endurance for job duties.
MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT DIRECTLY USED
Operates personal computer, printers, general office equipment to include telephones, calculators, copy, and fax machines.
JOB REQUIREMENTS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE
ENTRY LEVEL
Must be at least 18 years of age. Must possess a valid Colorado driver's license (or be eligible to obtain by time of employment) and exhibit a safe driving record. Failure to maintain a valid driver’s license and safe driving record is subject to Administrative Procedure #4104: Operation and Use of District Vehicles. Background investigation, polygraph, physical examination, and substance screening required prior to employment.
Must demonstrate the ability to meet the physical demands of the job. May include exposure to periods of high activity and high stress under demanding conditions. The position requires a great deal of communication with District staff, the public, and outside agencies. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, and hear. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and drive.
If you are not a resident of Colorado, you may be eligible for a relocation allowance of up to $5,000.
Radio Systems Engineering & Oversight
- Manage and monitor 700/800 MHz trunked radio systems and VHF equipment.
- Coordinate with internal divisions and external partners (e.g., City of Lakewood) for programming and system maintenance.
- Evaluate and implement new technologies, including digital trunking and wireless applications.
- Lead planning for system upgrades and infrastructure expansion (e.g., 2028 MARC upgrade).
- Maintain and support radio-based and internet-based station alerting systems.
- Ensure failover capabilities and redundancy in collaboration with IT and dispatch.
- Conduct monthly functional tests and maintain documentation.
- Acquire, configure, and manage division-issued cell phones.
- Oversee cellular and microwave tower contracts, including revenue tracking and compliance.
- Manage vendor relationships and coordinate maintenance schedules.
- Implement cybersecurity measures for radio hardware and software.
- Collaborate with IT on disaster recovery and system resilience.
- Maintain FCC licensing and ensure regulatory compliance for all communications systems.
- Troubleshoot and repair portable, mobile, and base station radios.
- Track inventory, history, and lifecycle of all communications equipment.
- Program talk groups and features on the 700/800 MHz trunked system.
- Maintain templates and MOUs for partner agency radio configurations.
- Represent WMFR in regional interoperability committees (e.g., MARC, UASI).
- Develop and deliver training for field personnel and dispatch staff.
- Provide onboarding and ongoing support for radio users.
- Serve as liaison for troubleshooting and system feedback.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Ability to use and operate a wide variety of office automation equipment and software, including spreadsheet applications, database management, record storage and retrieval systems, and word processing.
Understands District’s products, tools, systems, and functionality.
Possess interpersonal skills necessary to effectively work with other District members and third-party providers.
Ability to work both independently and as a team member.
Expert in the use of 700/800 MHz and multiband radio devices.
Familiarity with core communications networking equipment.
Ability to train non-technical system users.
Must be able to achieve a fitness level of 10 METs (metabolic equivalents) during an annual test administered by the Wellness Director, demonstrating sufficient cardiovascular endurance for job duties.
MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT DIRECTLY USED
Operates personal computer, printers, general office equipment to include telephones, calculators, copy, and fax machines.
JOB REQUIREMENTS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE
ENTRY LEVEL
- Minimum 5 years of experience in public safety radio systems, including trunked and VHF technologies.
- Strong understanding of FCC regulations and cybersecurity best practices.
- Experience managing contracts and vendor relationships.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and smart device usage.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in electronics, telecommunications, or related field.
- Certifications such as ETA CET, JNCIA-Junos, or Cisco CCNA.
- Experience with fire department or emergency services communications.
- Familiarity with SeeHawk, BDA/DAS testing, and microwave systems.
Must be at least 18 years of age. Must possess a valid Colorado driver's license (or be eligible to obtain by time of employment) and exhibit a safe driving record. Failure to maintain a valid driver’s license and safe driving record is subject to Administrative Procedure #4104: Operation and Use of District Vehicles. Background investigation, polygraph, physical examination, and substance screening required prior to employment.
Must demonstrate the ability to meet the physical demands of the job. May include exposure to periods of high activity and high stress under demanding conditions. The position requires a great deal of communication with District staff, the public, and outside agencies. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, and hear. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and drive.
If you are not a resident of Colorado, you may be eligible for a relocation allowance of up to $5,000.
Compensation details: 98000-112000 Yearly Salary
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