HERNANDO COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE
AL NIENHUIS SHERIFF
JOB TITLE: DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
BUREAU: ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES BUREAU
SUPERVISED BY: CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
PAY GRADE: 526N CREATED:
FLSA STATUS: EXEMPT REVISED: 04/02/2025
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS:Under the supervision of the Administrative Bureau commander the Director of Communications performs independent administrative and supervisory work to ensure the efficient operation of the communications section. This role requires strong leadership and sound judgment in overseeing all aspects of the communications section and the records unit. Staff are managed through a combination of supervisory guidance direct observation periodic reports and log reviews surveys and employee meetings. The Director regularly updates the Bureau Commander on the operation status and performance of the Section.NOTE: These examples are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar related or a logical assignment to the position.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS- Provides daily management oversight of all aspects of the operations of the Communications section and Records unit including planning organizing staffing directing coordinating reporting and budgeting.
- Performs ongoing administrative work related to the installation use and maintenance of the 911 and public safety computeraided dispatch (CAD) systems; develops implements and maintains standard operating procedures to ensure compliance with agency policy and federal and state law.
- Evaluates current operations and collaborates with information technology staff in strategic planning for replacement or enhancement of existing hardware and software to meet operational needs and achieve optimum capabilities.
- Develops and maintains continuity of operations plans to ensure continued staffing and operation of essential systems in the event of an emergency including but limited to maintaining a backup communications center and generator power.
- Attends meetings and works with various public safety and emergency planning and response agencies to plan and participate in exercises and other activities to test emergency operations plans procedures and equipment.
- Works with the Bureau Commander and others to compile and manage the annual budget for the Communications section E911 and 800 MHz funds utilizing appropriate procedures to ensure costeffectiveness and operational efficiency.
- Assists in the processing of contracts and payments for goods or services; negotiates contracts for maintenance of equipment and other services as needed; ensures compliance with bidding and purchasing requirements when applicable.
- Attends various seminars workshops and training to keep abreast of changes in technology monitor changes in federal and state regulations new developments in standard operating procedures etc.
- Serves as liaison to other sections and public safety agencies to resolve problems exchange ideas and coordinate efforts to enhance E911 communications systems and dispatch and records services.
- Supervises the Records Manager Communications Manager and Training Supervisor monitoring and documenting their performance and leading their development. Provides guidance instruction direction and feedback on an ongoing basis.
- Oversees Section training programs. Ensures a uniform and effective training process for all Communications and Records personnel. Reviews daily observation reports (DORs) and other documentation regarding trainees and training officers.
- Schedules and facilitates meetings with the Communication Manager and attends meetings with shifts as needed.
- Works with E911 Coordinator to generate monthly annual and ad hoc reports regarding the Communications section. Submits reports to the Bureau Commander and/or State of Florida as required and completes other research and reports as requested.
- Subject to call out status to respond to the communications center when necessary. Coordinates with information technology staff regarding the radio system E911 system or CAD system responding as necessary.
- Coordinates and/or performs internal and external speaking engagements as needed to educate regarding the E911 system and Sheriffs consolidated dispatch services.
- Coordinates with the E911 Coordinator and others to ensure updated accurate audio data and printed files are maintained according to law and agency policies.
- Supervises applicant orientation and applicant interview process making recommendations to Human Resources and Bureau Commander regarding hiring of applicants for the communications section.
- Oversees the administration of public records work and the compilation of accurate Florida IncidentBased Reporting System (FIBRS) data following all public records and FIBRS laws rules and regulations. Updates Bureau Commander as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS:A. Training and Experience- Bachelors degree in a related field from an accredited college or university and at least ten years experience in public safety telecommunications or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- A minimum of five years experience in supervision or management in a public safety telecommunications or criminal justice setting is preferred.
Preferred Qualifications:- Current State of Florida certification as a public safety telecommunicator
- Current Emergency Medical Dispatch certification
- Emergency Number Professional (ENP) certification
- Registered Public Safety Leader (RPL) certification
- Successful completion of Communications Center Manager Certification (CMCP) or Communications Center Manager (CCM)
B. Knowledge Skills and Abilities- Knowledge of effective techniques and practices in public administration including organizational leadership and personnel management.
- Knowledge of sophisticated public safety communications systems to include telephone equipment CAD and related networks
- Knowledge of all Florida and Federal laws statutes and administrative requirements related to the operation of a 911 center public safety telecommunications and 800 MHz radio system.
- Ability to develop coordinate and present effective educational materials for oral or graphic presentation.
- Knowledge of emergency communications center general orders policies procedures and practices
- Knowledge of all Florida and Federal laws statutes and administrative requirements related to public records and UCR.
- Knowledge of business English spelling punctuation and math for preparation and/or composition and editing of documents.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with employees and the community instilling confidence in the local E911 and public safety dispatch system.
- Ability to effectively communicate with County officials and members of the community on both a technical and nontechnical basis as the situation requires.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of records and information.
- Ability to anticipate work to be done and initiate proper and acceptable direction for completion of work with a minimum of supervision and instruction.
- Ability to efficiently utilize administrative software such as Microsoft Word Microsoft Excel Microsoft PowerPoint Munis etc.
- Ability to coach subordinate employees to ensure engagement address performance weaknesses and maximize personal and career potential.
ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL SKILLS:- Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
- Acceptable eyesight (with or without correction).
- Acceptable hearing (with or without correction).
- Sitting for long periods of time.
- Ability to life up to 20 pounds.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Required Experience:
Director