Job Specifications

COUNTY OF SANTA CRUZ

Under supervision, install and remove communications equipment from vehicles and fixed stations; perform simple routine maintenance in communications areas and on communications equipment; and perform other duties as required.

Incumbents are expected to independently perform complicated mobile equipment installations and non-technical troubleshooting and repairs. When unusually complex situations are encountered, incumbents seek assistance from their supervisor. This class differs from the class of Communications Technician I, which is the technical trainee, level requiring an FCC license and knowledge of electrical and electronic theory and practice.

Install radio equipment in cars and trucks, including fabricating mountings and brackets, running and pulling cables, mounting speakers and microphones; install noise suppression devices on automotive ignition systems and generators; make electrical connections to automotive electrical systems; set up and adjust public address and other audio equipment; remove radio equipment from vehicles and return electrical connections to normal operations; clean radio equipment; assist in the disassembly of generators and perform routine preventive maintenance tasks; paint cabinets, cases and covers; install and remove equipment from fixed radio stations; install, repair and service antennas; secure safety devices; climb antenna towers; pass tools and parts up rope pulley, and solder connections; load and unload vehicles; disassemble obsolete equipment and salvage parts; read basic wiring diagrams; learn use of meters; complete forms and reports; maintain records; perform shop maintenance such as sweeping, mopping and dusting.

Working knowledge of:

• The use of hand tools and small power tools.
• Automotive electrical and ignition systems.
• Safety practices to be observed when installing electrical and electronic equipment.

• Operate and use hand and small power tools safely.
• Install radio equipment.
• Read, interpret, and follow instructions, wiring diagrams, schematics, and drawings in installation manuals.
• Understand and follow written and oral directions.
• Assess the condition of tower mounted equipment from ground level.
• Hear and distinguish various sounds, such as voices of co-workers in noisy environments and sounds of operating equipment.
• Keep accurate records.
• Apply basic electrical theory.
• Identify and distinguish colors, such as color coded electrical wires.
• Safely lift and move heavy and bulky objects weighing 75 pounds.
• Stoop and bend for extended periods of time.
• Perform tasks requiring strength, such as ascending and descending 250-foot towers and carrying equipment, such as a mobile service monitor to remote work sites.
• Drive vehicles, such as cars, vans and emergency vehicles, including patrol cars and ambulances; drive fire trucks within the parking lot in order to test mobile communications systems and related equipment.
• Work cooperatively with others on assigned projects.

Any combination of education and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and abilities, is qualifying, unless otherwise specified. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Six months of training or experience, which demonstrates possession of the knowledge and abilities, listed above.

License: Possession of a valid California class C driver license.

Special Working Conditions: Exposure to variable temperatures and weather conditions; heights, such as radio communication towers; high levels of noise; unpleasant odors; electrical hazards; silica dust; non-ionizing radiation; and, the possibility of experiencing burns, bodily injury and contact with toxic substances or chemical irritants.

Other Special Requirements: Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays on an emergency, as-needed basis.

Bargaining Unit: 41

EEOC Job Category: 08

Occupational Grouping: 42

Workers' Comp Code: 1160