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Communications Manager

City of Berkeley · Berkeley, CA, USA ·

Job type:
Full Time

About the Role
The City of Berkeley invites you to apply for the position of Communications Manager in the Police Department. In this role, you will manage all operations and activities of the Communications Center Bureau. Responsibilities include developing and implementing policies, procedures, and operating standards, and continuously evaluating the efficiency and maintenance of all communication equipment and systems. The Communications Center processes approximately 5,000 calls for service monthly, including emergency and non‑emergency calls for Police, Fire, and Emergency Medical Services.

Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a steady leader who can build trust with staff and communicate clearly in a fast‑paced environment. They have experience managing or supervising a communications center and understand the challenges of staffing shortages, training, and employee wellness. They are proactive in finding solutions to staffing needs, supporting recruitment and retention efforts, and maintaining service levels during difficult conditions. The ideal candidate is also comfortable leading through change, including the implementation of new technologies and systems, and can help staff adapt through clear communication, training, and support. They are organized, approachable, and able to make sound decisions under pressure while keeping the team focused and supported.

Qualifications

High school graduation and completion of 60 college semesters (or 90 quarter units) in business administration, public administration, criminal justice, or a related field; equivalent experience may substitute on a year‑for‑year basis.

Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in a public safety communications center, including at least one supervisory or administrative capacity.

At least two years of experience directly related to emergency dispatching.

Must pass a psychiatric evaluation and P.O.S.T. Dispatcher background investigation.

Willingness to work evening, night, weekend, and holiday shifts.

Desirable: Emergency Medical Dispatcher, P.O.S.T. Dispatcher, Civilian Supervisor, Instructor Certificate, or completion of related training.

Desirable: ICCS 100, 200, 300, 400, 700, and 800 Incident Command system certification.

Must be able to travel to various locations within and outside the City of Berkeley to meet program needs and fulfill job responsibilities.

Must maintain a valid California driver’s license and satisfactory driving record when driving on City business.

Additional Information
The City is committed to making reasonable accommodations in the examination process and in the work environment.

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