Communications Director

Communications Director General Definition: Performs difficult technical and professional administrative work, manages, plans, organizes, and directs various aspects of the Communications Center; does related work as required or assigned.
Responsible for ensuring effective emergency communication services to the Sheriff’s Office, Fire and Rescue Department and other County government agencies.
Supervision is exercised over all communications office staff.
Work is performed under the general supervision of the Administration Division Lieutenant.
Essential Functions/Typical Tasks: Supervises all personnel assigned to Communications Center; oversees scheduling, approve leave request, maintains, and calculates time sheets.
Takes action to address personnel issues as needed.
Prepares, administers, and monitors office budget.
Secures and maintains supplies for the Communications Center.
Oversees the hiring, training, and performance of all Communications personnel.
Enrolls communications personnel in required schools for certifications, as well as enhancement classes offered; coordinated through the Sheriff’s Office training officer.
Functions as technical consultant and coordinator on matters related to operational dispatch procedures for the Sheriff’s Office and Fire and Rescue.
Functions as technical consultant and coordinator for telephone systems, computer aided dispatch and radio suppliers to ensure satisfactory performance by contracted vendors of communications goods and services; to include maintenance and support as well as technical repairs.
Evaluates programs, equipment and procedures and makes changes and recommendations as needed for operations in the Communications Center.
Serves as liaison with other Communications Centers to ensure coordinated interaction as required.
Prepares performance evaluations of Communications staff.
Coordinate with the County Planning – GIS Department for geographic mapping and information update as required.
Investigate complaints from citizens, staff, Law Enforcement, Fire and Rescue department and outside agencies involving ECC personnel and prepares disciplinary type reports as needed.
Develops updates and recommends policies, procedures and changes affecting the operations of the Communications Center and personnel.
Prepares reports to state for funds received in accordance with the Virginia Wireless Board; to include preparing grant request.
Performs all duties of Communications Officers and Communications Shift Supervisors as required.
Functions as Systems Administrator, technical consultant, and coordinator with IT (Information Technology) Department, to include overseeing and/or assisting with computer and software purchases, installation of computers and software in the Communications Center and Sheriff’s Develops and maintains records, files, and reports as required.
Functions as the TAC (Terminal Agency Coordinator) with Virginia State Police for the utilization of VCIN/NCIC within Communications Center and the Sheriff’s Office.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Thorough knowledge and use of public safety radio communications and FCC rules and regulations and teletype.
Thorough knowledge of the geographic area within the County of Warren and adjoining counties that mutual aid is provided by Law Enforcement and Fire and Rescue.
Thorough knowledge of the Law Enforcement/Fire and Rescue procedures.
Ability to plan and supervise the work of others.
Ability to operate all communications equipment.
Ability to direct the design, installation, and maintenance of communications equipment.
Ability to speak distinctly.
Ability to deal courteously with the general public and maintain effective professional working relationships with Department Heads, and associates.
Thorough knowledge and use of management principles and practices.
Ability to present ideas effectively both verbally and in writing.
Prepares a variety of clear and comprehensive reports.
Possesses a strong computer, communications, leadership, and supervisory skill.
Ability to maintain high level of confidentiality.
Education and Experience: Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school and considerable experience in public safety telecommunications including some supervisory or leadership experience.
Special Requirements: Successful completion of training courses as required by the Commonwealth of Virginia; certified VCIN/NCIC operator with Class A certification.
Complete and maintain certification for Emergency Medical Dispatch.
Complete supervisory class for emergency communications successfully.
Possess valid driver’s license.
TO APPLY YOU MUST COMPLETE A WARREN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION, CLICK HERE FOR AN APPLICATION.