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County of San Mateo

Public Safety Communications Systems Specialist (Open and Promotional)

County of San Mateo, Redwood City, California, United States, 94061

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San Mateo County Public Safety Communications is seeking an outstanding professional to join the Department’s System Management Unit as a

Public Safety Communications Systems Specialist.

The Systems Management Unit handles all technology needs for the Department, from desktop support to operation and maintenance of the County’s 911 communications infrastructure.

Under limited direction, the Public Safety Communications Systems Specialist performs advanced journey-level technical analytical support to departmental information systems, focusing on Public Safety Communications (PSC) in a NextGen 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) / PSAP environment. The Specialist provides leadership and subject matter expertise in systems engineering for critical emergency communications applications, including hands‑on support for Windows and Linux server environments, virtualization, cloud (AWS, Azure), and AI‑integrated platforms. They also lead projects involving the deployment and maintenance of mission‑critical systems such as CAD, RMS, message switching, IP telephony, WAN/LAN networks, and wireless communications.

Position Responsibilities

Lead the design, implementation, and support of departmental information systems and applications within the Public Safety Communications environment, including NG9‑1‑1 systems and CAD.

Analyze end‑user needs and develop specifications for software enhancements or new applications with emphasis on AI‑driven analytics and automation.

Oversee deployment and support of server infrastructure (Windows Server, Linux), virtualization platforms (VMware, Hyper‑V), and hybrid cloud environments (AWS, Azure).

Administer and troubleshoot enterprise network environments involving IP/MPLS, BGP routing, microwave, LawNet, wireless networks, and WAN/LAN connectivity.

Implement and support cybersecurity tools and processes, including XDR, Tenable Nessus, and VM agents.

Lead the integration of AI and machine learning technologies for enhanced situational awareness, predictive dispatch, and operational efficiency in the PSC environment.

Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and departmental stakeholders to ensure timely delivery, system reliability, and user satisfaction.

Provide technical guidance and leadership to Information Technology Analysts and Technicians as assigned.

Monitor system performance, troubleshoot, recommend upgrades, and assist in design and capacity planning for departmental systems.

Document system configurations, operational procedures, and prepare reports for management.

Participate in County‑wide IT planning and public safety technology initiatives to align systems with strategic goals.

Ideal Candidate – Knowledge

Principles and practices of computer science, information systems, and telecommunications applicable to PSC environments.

Operating systems: Windows Server, Linux, virtualization (VMware, Hyper‑V), hybrid cloud (AWS, Azure).

AI/ML platforms, tools, and their application in public safety communications, including NLP, video/audio analytics, and predictive modeling.

Network infrastructure: IP/MPLS, BGP routing, microwave links, WAN/LAN, wireless technologies, and LawNet.

Public safety systems: CAD, RMS, Message Switching Systems, MDTs, NextGen IP Telephony.

Security frameworks, vulnerability assessment tools, endpoint detection, and CJIS/NIST compliance.

Programming and scripting languages (PowerShell, Python, Bash) for automation and application support.

Ideal Candidate – Experience

Project management, leadership, and end‑user training.

Leading and coordinating IT projects from planning through implementation and support phases.

Working independently and exercising sound judgment within policy guidelines.

Training and mentoring less experienced IT staff.

Experience with cloud computing (AWS, Azure), virtualization, AI/ML technologies, and PSC systems is highly desirable.

Performing physical tasks related to hardware installation, maintenance, and cabling.

Using visual and auditory acuity for effective communication and system monitoring.

Education and Experience

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited four‑year college or university in computer science, engineering, electronics, telecommunications, or a closely related field, or equivalent technical education.

Two years of increasingly responsible full‑time experience supporting mission‑critical IT systems in public safety or related environments.

San Mateo County is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.

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