What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Communications position at Hernando County Sheriff's Office?
HERNANDO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
AL NIENHUIS, SHERIFF
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 computer-aided 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 cost-effectiveness 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 Sheriff’s 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 Incident-Based Reporting System (FIBRS) data, following all public records and FIBRS laws, rules and regulations. Updates Bureau Commander as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS:
A. Training and Experience
- Bachelor’s 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.
- 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 non-technical 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
