Public Safety Support Specialist

Under general supervision, performs work related to development, implementation, maintenance and project management associated with supporting technology needs in conjunction with the public safety mission of the Johnston-Grimes Metropolitan Fire District and the Johnston Police Department’s daily operations. The position develops and maintains the administration of network/I.T. systems in collaboration with the IT/Enterprise Director; manages public safety facilities technical systems and maintenance;

supports equipment, software, technical contract services and collaborative partners associated with enforcing all City statutes/ordinances and State laws/regulations for which public safety services in Johnston are accountable.

Under the direction of the Public Safety Support Manager, in conjunction with the fire district’s Assistant Fire Chief and Police Division Commander, duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to: provide support services to district and departmental personnel who use computer hardware and software in the performance of their duties. These services include assisting supported users with hardware, software, and network related problems.

The work is performed under the direct supervision of the PSSM, but leeway is granted for the exercise of independent judgement and initiative. The nature of the work performed requires that an employee in this class establish and maintain effective working relationships with other city employees and technical vendors. The principal duties of this class are performed in a general office environment.

Provides on-site maintenance and trouble-shooting for personal computer hardware and peripherals, software and network connections and other equipment. Responds to assigned trouble calls from users through workflow request. Diagnoses the cause of personal computer operation problems and takes or recommends appropriate action to solve those problems. Performs software installation and setup procedures, network configuration procedures, component diagnosis and replacement. Assists assigned users in use of computer software, including standard office software, network and systems client software, and specialized software that may be used.

Performs fire district and police department needs assessment; coordinates assessment projects with staff. Instructs fire district and police department employees in appropriate techniques to enhance productive use of personal computer hardware and software. Performs project assignments, as required, including maintaining equipment records, and purchasing supplies, in accordance with City purchasing policy. Provides needed information and demonstrations concerning how to perform certain work tasks to new employees in the same or similar class of positions.

Keeps immediate supervisor and designated others fully and accurately informed concerning work progress, including present and potential work problems and suggestions for new or improved ways of addressing such problems, attends meetings, conferences, workshops and training sessions and reviews publications and audio-visual materials to become and remain current on the principles, practice and new developments in assigned work areas. Communicates and coordinates regularly with appropriate others to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of interdepartmental operations and activities.

Performs other directly related duties consistent with the role and function of the classification. Has a working knowledge of city budget principles, policies, and the ability to interpret budget reports. Researches, designs, develops/adjusts, and makes recommendations to fire command and police command staff on identified innovative technology trends with a focus on fiscal responsibility and feasibility of use. Maintains an accurate inventory of fire district and city-owned property held by the department(s) and maintains that record for inspection or audit;

assists the Finance Department and IT/Enterprise Director with record keeping. Coordinates and forecasts public safety building and annex facilities’ supplies, routine maintenance,…