Chief – Emergency Communications Division

Manatee County Government, Work That Matters; Bradenton (FL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 119,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ComPsych — employee assistance program

Wellbeing benefits

Paid time off (PTO) and holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Manatee County Government seeks an experienced leader to oversee the Emergency Communications Center (ECC), a 24/7 9-1-1 operation, coordinating CAD, 911 systems, data communications, and emergency response with local agencies. You will drive policies, training, and technology integration to support public safety outcomes.

The role requires strategic budgeting, workforce management, and collaboration with county departments; the position carries an exempt, salaried status with extended hours as

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, public or emergency management, or related field.
• 5 years in fast-paced public safety dispatching/call-taking with union experience.
• 3 years supervisory experience in public safety administration.
• Valid Florida driver’s license and acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Oversee ECC operations 24/7 and manage division functions.
• Develop and implement policies and SOPs for ECC personnel.
• Coordinate CAD, CAD-related systems, and EMS interfaces; ensure compliance.
• Manage vendor contracts, RFPs, and contract performance.
• Develop annual budget and monitor revenue and expenses for the division.
• Lead training, QA, and staff development; ensure staffing coverage.

Skills

Public safety leadership

Emergency communications

Budget planning

Staff supervision

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Tools

CAD systems

MSAG 911

GIS

Job description

General Information

Work Location: Manatee County Public Safety Center: 2101 47th Terrace East, Bradenton, Florida 34203

Work Hours: This is an exempt, salaried position based on a standard 40-hour administrative schedule (typically Monday–Friday), with the expectation of extended hours, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed to support 24/7 ECC operations, including EOC activations and emergency response.

Expected Starting Salary Range: $89,760.52 – $118,932.69

Responsible for all operations of the Manatee County Emergency Communications Center (ECC), a NextGen 9-1-1 primary Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) fully migrated to the ESInet. Develops and implements strategic operating policy and procedures. Performs statistical and qualitative analyses. Contributes to annual budget preparation. Identifies innovations and advancements in technology and communications systems including Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and remote call-taking/dispatch.

Note: This position is designated by the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners as serving at the will and pleasure of the County Administrator. Employment in this position is at will and may be terminated at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. Nothing in this job posting, any application materials, or any related communications shall be construed to create a contract of employment or to limit the County Administrator’s authority to terminate the appointment at any time, with or without cause and with or without prior notice, subject only to applicable law. Working Conditions Typical indoor office environment. Sitting for long periods of time, working on computer. Lifting equipment or supplies up to 25 pounds alone and up to 50 pounds with assistance. Position requires visual acuity and depth perception, as well as ability to hear and identify sounds. Frequent high stress situations that may involve angry or frustrated citizens. Regularly required to work extended hours, flexible shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Job Description Essential Functions These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position. Responsible for all operations of the Manatee County Public Safety Emergency Communications Center (ECC), a 24/7 9-1-1 operation center which received emergency and non-emergency calls and dispatches public safety resources to the community. Leads all elements of Division functions, including operations, training, technology, and administration.

Maintains all records regarding FCC licensing requirements, 911 Telecommunicator certifications, and Emergency Medical Dispatcher certifications to ensure compliance with State and Federal regulations.

Coordinates with 911 network/services providers in the product migration strategies for the County’s computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system and 911 telephone switching systems, call logging systems, ancillary technology devices such as AVL, and data communications between remote first responder stations and the ECC.

Configures and manages a sophisticated 911 switching system, ensuring efficient operation.

Formulates, updates, plans, and implements Division goals and projects, ensuring efficient, timely completion.

Oversees the design and deployment of County policy with respect to Emergency Medical Dispatch protocols, including strategic planning, technology planning, and results measurement.

Develops, analyzes, and implements policies and procedures related to the division. Creates, distributes, and enforces Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the ECC and staff.

Maintains liaison with localities, law enforcement, Sheriff’s department, fire and emergency service providers, and other state and local agencies impacted by the emergency communications center.

Manages applicable contracts, which includes preparing RFPs, recommending, and participating in the selection of vendors, and monitoring contract compliance.

Manages emergency communications disaster plans and activities to include development and update of the ECC Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). Coordinates with other public safety agencies and government offices in overall county emergency preparedness efforts.

Serves in the role of ESF2 (emergency support function), providing communications coordination and expertise during Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activations.

Provides direction to subordinate managers. Mentors and coaches those managers. Builds and sustains an operational culture that empowers, enables, encourages, and educates staff to succeed in a public safety emergency communications environment.

Ensures all shifts are appropriately staffed 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, and all authorized positions are filled as soon as possible.

Ensures coordinated training of new communications staff and continuing training of established staff. Ensures quality assurance processes are followed and integrity of the ECC system is maintained.

Develops annual budget based on division needs. Monitors revenue and expenses and ensures fiscal resources are allocated appropriately.

Performs budget preparation and monitoring, including budgetary impact considerations and revenue analysis. Creates capital budget projects. Orders equipment and oversees installation and acceptance, including related employee training and general successful deployment.

Investigates, responds to, and documents complaints, problems, and incidents, ensuring prompt and satisfactory resolutions are reached.

Represents the department and Manatee County at meetings, conferences, etc. Makes public presentations as required.

Responsible for regulatory compliance to ensure that all work is completed in accordance with applicable laws and government regulations.

Serves as an active member of the Public Safety Department Command Staff/Senior Leadership Team.

May act as Public Safety Deputy Director in the absence of the Deputy Director.

Maintains knowledge and understanding of current best practices, trends, laws, and issues affecting area of expertise. Attends educational events that will increase professional knowledge and be otherwise beneficial to the County.

In case of an emergency or crisis situation (hurricane, flood, etc.), the position must respond/perform recovery duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor. All employees will be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.

Minimum Qualifications Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, public safety administration, emergency management, criminal justice, or a related field.

Five (5) years of experience working in a fast-paced, high call volume commercial or government public safety dispatching/call-taking facility, to include experience working in a labor union environment.

Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in a supervisory role in public safety administration and communication center operations.

Valid Florida Driver’s License and a driving record acceptable to the insurance provider.

Must possess or obtain the required National Incident Management System (NIMS) certifications (Institute Incident Command Systems 100, 200, 300, 400, 700 and 800) within one year of employment.

Must possess and maintain the Florida Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification within six (6) months of employment.

Must possess and maintain Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification within six (6) months of employment.

Must possess and maintain Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), Emergency Police Dispatch (EPD), and Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD) certifications within six (6) months of employment.

Must pass and maintain NCIC/FCIC criminal background check.

Must complete F.B.I CJIS Security Awareness Training within six (6) months of employment.

Position requires a psychological examination and a medical examination to determine fitness for duty.

Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered in meeting the minimum qualifications for this position.

More

Association of Public Safety Communication Officials (APCO) Certified Public Safety Executive (CPE), APCO Registered Public Safety Leader (RPL), National Emergency Number Association (NENA) Center Manager Certification Program (CMCP), NENA Emergency Number Professional (ENP), or other equivalent certification in public safety communications leadership.

Master’s Degree preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities: A logical, rational approach to problem solving, and an objective approach to situations and circumstances.

Ability to remain calm during stressful situations and maintain a professional attitude.

Excellent knowledge and operational understanding of Emergency Communications Systems (hardware and software) including computerized 9-1-1 phone system, voice logging recorder, MSAG 911, CAD (Computer Aided Dispatch) Systems, radio systems (hardware and software), GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and applications in CAD, Records Management Systems, and alarm monitoring systems.

Excellent knowledge and understanding of principles and practices applied in a medium-sized 9-1-1 system and emergency communications center.

Excellent knowledge and understanding of systems and technology necessary to provide effective 9-1-1 services.

In depth knowledge of federal, state, and local procedures, standards, and regulatory requirements regarding a PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point).

Excellent knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance necessary to successfully perform job duties, including local, state, and federal statutes, rules, and regulations governing 9-1-1 public safety communications services.

Excellent knowledge and understanding of computer applications and software programs required to perform job duties, including specialized Emergency Communications systems.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills, including public presentation skills, to be able to interact professionally and effectively with staff, executive management, government agencies, civic groups, the general public, and other stakeholders. Able to influence others regarding policies, practices, and procedures.

Veterans Preference In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.

EEO/ADA Statement Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at 941-748-4501 x 3865.

Drug-Free Workplace Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.

Emergency Response/Recovery Activities All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.

Full Time Positions Employee Assistance Program (EAP):****

• ComPsych — offers all employees and their family members with emotional, financial, legal, and work/life balance support.
• LAMP counselors available for personal support including emotional, substance abuse, marital, and financial issues.
• Five (5) free visits annually for employees and covered family members.

Wellbeing Benefits:

• Wellness/Health Coaches (5 Free per year)
• On-site Fitness Centers for you and your dependents with 24/7 access
• Personal Training (5 Free per year)
• Pharmacy Technician
• Group Fitness Classes
• Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Management
• Diabetes Care Program
• Registered Dietician (5 Free per year)
• Massages with licensed therapist (small copay)

Miscellaneous Benefits:

• Workers’ Compensation
• Training/Seminars
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• Government employee discounts at many retailers and attractions
• Access to Manatee County Library Services (books, digital services, tools, museum passes).

Paid Time Off:

• 12 Paid Holidays including New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
• Three (3) Personal Holidays
• Personal Sick Leave
• Family Sick Leave
• Sick Leave Bank (Donated Hours)
• Professional Medical Appointment Leave
• Bereavement Leave
• Military Leave
• Military Training Leave
• FMLA

Vacation Award: Applies to employees regularly scheduled to work 8 hours per day/40 hours per week. Years of Service Vacation Days 0-5 16.25 days

6-10 19.50 days

11+ 22.75 days

• Eligible employees may earn an additional 2 days of vacation through participation in the Manatee Thrives program

Insurance:

• Award-winning Health Plan with deductibles as low as $0.
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Prescription Insurance
• Life Insurance (6 times salary at low cost)
• Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance

Retirement:

• Florida Retirement System (FRS) with Pension Plan and Investment Plan options.
• 457b Tax Deferred and ROTH account options through Voya.
• FRS Webinars
• Free financial guidance with licensed, non-commissioned financial planner

Career Wellness:

• Professional Leadership Programs
• Instructor-Led and eLearning Training
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• Career Counseling
• Toastmasters
• Networking Membership (Manatee Chamber of Commerce, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance)
• Employee Recognition Programs with monetary and time-off awards

Education Benefits:

• Tuition Reimbursement eligible after six (6) months of Public Service, including GED reimbursement.
• Continuing Education support through Training/Seminars and Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladder.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Flexible Spending Account:

• Options for Health Care and Dependent Care Spending Accounts providing pre-tax savings.

Permanent Part Time – Benefits Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

• ComPsych — offers all employees and their family members with emotional, financial, and work/life balance support.
• LAMP counselors available for personal support including emotional, substance abuse, marital, and financial issues.

Miscellaneous Benefits:

• Workers’ Compensation
• Training/Seminars
• Fitness Center Access for employee only
• FRS options
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• Government employee discounts at many retailers and attractions
• Access to Manatee County Library Services (books, digital services, tools, museum passes).

Paid Time Off:

• 12 Paid Holidays including New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
• Three (3) Personal Holidays
• Paid Time Off and Leaves of Absence are based on an 8 hrs./day 80/hrs.

per pay-period basis, any work schedule less that this will be earned on