Radio Communications Specialist I

Department: Field Operations

Proposed Minimum Salary: $22.45 hourly

Job Location: Merkel, Texas

Job Type: Staff

Job Description: The Radio Communication Specialist I, under the direction of the Incident Response Logistics Coordinator and Lead Radio Communication Specialist, communicate effectively with TFS managers and interface with other state agency personnel, maintain compliance with FCC rules and regulations, ensure that all TFS communications and computer software is properly licensed and programmed accordingly. Install, modify, diagnose and repair TFS digital computer systems and FM radio transceiver communication systems. Perform documentation or data entry necessary to maintain service logs, asset control, inventory control and cost accounting systems. Respond to a variety of wildfire and all-hazard incidents and provide logistical support as needed. *The location for this position will be determined based on candidate selection.*

Responsibilities: Under the direction of the Incident Response Logistics Coordinator and Lead Radio Communication Specialist, communicate effectively with TFS managers and interface with other state agency personnel Install, modify, diagnose, and repair TFS digital computer systems and FM radio transceiver communications systems. Installing cable connections, calculating power loss. Basic troubleshooting and diagnostics. Radio programming, installing computer software, new computer set-up, and computer virus identification and removal. (May require extended bending, reaching, stooping, kneeling, squatting, and sitting.) Perform documentation or data entry necessary to maintain service logs, asset control, inventory control, and cost accounting systems, Manage and account for TFS credit cards in accordance with applicable laws, policies, rules, procedure, and guidelines Manage and account for assigned TFS property Participate in agency-sponsored training, programs and activities (May require infrequent travel in State vehicles with overnight stays). Maintain compliance with FCC rules and regulations. Ensure that all TFS communications and computer software be properly licensed and programmed accordingly. Available for emergency response and to establish emergency field communications systems as required. (May require working long hours with minimal rest and in primitive conditions. May also require exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as wind, sunlight, smoke, rain, and temperature extremes. May also require walking long distances, standing for extended periods and twisting. May also require driving motor vehicles long distances and lifting and carrying heavy objects. Emergency response may result in exposure to emotionally stressful situations for extended periods of time.) Other duties as assigned.

Benefits: Texas A&M University System strives to support the health and wellness needs of our diverse workforce. Texas A&M Forest Service offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement benefits, paid time off and health and lifestyle programs as well as educational incentives and tuition reimbursement opportunities. Some additional benefits include the ability to accrue compensatory time off, overtime on emergency response and a physical fitness incentive of $500 for passing the arduous test (walk three miles wearing a 45-pound pack in 45 minutes or less) each year. Education and Experience Required Education: Associates degree.

Preferred Education: Associate degree in Applied Sciences or two (2) year equivalent technical degree, with specialization in FM communications and computer repair.

Required Experience: Five (5) years in the field of customer service.

Preferred Experience: Five (5) to ten (10) years of proven customer service field experience. Experience working with FM communications systems with a wildland fire agency. Holds Amateur Radio License. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required Knowledge: Use of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Working knowledge of FM communications and computer (PC) assembly, repair and maintenance; Required Abilities: Ability to become familiar with basic knowledge of Incident Command System (ICS).. Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others. Registrations, Certifications, and Licenses Required: Valid Texas Driver’s License. Completion of IS-100, IS-700 and L-180. Become NWCG qualified as Radio Operator (RADO) and Incident Communications Technician (COMT).

Preferred: NWCG qualifed as Incident Communication Technician (COMT)

Other Requirements Required: Availability to respond to emergencies and establish emergency field communication systems as required. Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer. The Texas A&M University System is one of the largest systems of higher education in the nation, with a statewide network of twelve universities, eight state agencies, a comprehensive health science center, Texas A&M-Fort Worth and Texas A&M-RELLIS. The A&M System is committed to providing an educational and work environment that is conducive to the personal and professional development of each employee. Each member institution provides equal opportunity and access to all students, employees and prospective employees. External Applicants - Applicants not currently employed by a Texas A&M System member may Search Postings and apply for positions within one or more A&M System members by selecting the job posting. Internal Applicants - This site lists job postings throughout The Texas A&M University System. It is intended for applicants not currently employed by a member of the system. Current employees should apply for jobs on the Internal Career site. The Texas A&M System is an Equal Opportunity/ Veterans/ Disability Employer.