Network Technician I/II/III – Police

City of San José; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of San José Police Department is seeking a Network Technician I/II/III to provide technical support for its mission-critical technology environment, including MDCs, desktops, and VoIP systems. The role requires strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to operate in a 24/7 public safety setting.

Work closely with the Department Information Technology Manager and Infrastructure Team to install, configure, and maintain endpoints, network gear, and Active Directory services, delivering

Qualifications

• Completion of high school or equivalent and six months of college-level coursework or vocational training covering computer-related work.
• One year of college coursework or vocational training and one year of experience for Network Technician II.
• Two years of college-level coursework and two years of experience for Network Technician III.
• Required licensing includes a valid California driver’s license and, for II/III, CompTIA A+ and Microsoft Specialist certifications.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot MDCs, AIS workstations, desktops, laptops, and peripherals.
• Respond to Help Desk requests and diagnose hardware, software, and network issues.
• Troubleshoot wired/wireless network connectivity, switches, and access points.
• Support Windows-based workstations and AD environment; maintain documentation and inventory.
• Support VoIP systems and communications equipment.
• Assist with deployment, patching, upgrades, and lifecycle replacement of computing equipment.
• Support endpoint security and CJIS compliance as applicable.

Skills

Network troubleshooting

Windows environments

Active Directory

VoIP support

Help Desk

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

1 year college coursework / vocational training

Tools

CompTIA A+ certificate

Microsoft Specialist

Active Directory

PowerShell

Job description

Minimum Qualifications

Our diverse and inclusive workforce of more than 7,000 employees play a key role in the success of San José, the heart of the Silicon Valley. All City of San José employees work together as one team to make San José a vibrant, innovative, and desirable place to live and work. Visit here to learn more about our One Team Leadership Values and Expectations, including quality and excellent customer service and here to learn more about San José.

The City of San José is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of San José is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at 408-535-1285, 711 (TTY), or via email at [e-mail].

About The Department

The San José Police Department is dedicated to providing public safety through community partnerships and 21st Century Policing practices, ensuring equity for all. The Department is committed to treating all of San Jose’s diverse community members with dignity, fairness, and respect, while protecting their rights and providing equal protection under the law.

Position Duties

The San José Police Department relies on mission-critical technology systems that operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to support public safety operations. The Department maintains one of the largest and most complex technology environments within the City of San José, including 21 remote facilities, more than 1,000 desktop workstations, approximately 450 Mobile Data Computers (MDCs), and over 80 application and database servers operating within a Microsoft Active Directory environment.

Under the direction of the Department Information Technology Manager within the Systems Development Division's Infrastructure Team, the Network Technician I/II/III will provide technical support, network and endpoint troubleshooting, equipment deployment and maintenance, and operational support for the Police Department’s mission-critical technology environment.

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Mobile Data Computers (MDCs), Automated Information System (AIS) workstations, desktop computers, laptops, and related peripheral equipment.
• Respond to technical support and Help Desk requests and diagnose hardware, software, network connectivity, and user access issues.
• Troubleshoot wired and wireless network connectivity, including network connections, cabling, access points, switches, and related network infrastructure.
• Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows-based workstations and associated applications in a Microsoft Active Directory environment.
• Support and troubleshoot the Department's Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone systems and related communications equipment.
• Assist with deployment, configuration, patching, upgrades, and lifecycle replacement of desktop and mobile computing equipment.
• Support endpoint security technologies, including antivirus/endpoint protection, system updates, device configuration, and security policies.
• Assist with Active Directory administration, including computer accounts, user access, group membership, and related workstation and network support functions.
• Maintain accurate documentation, equipment inventory, service records, and Help Desk tickets.
• Provide technical support for systems operating in a 24/7 public safety environment and participate in after-hours support, scheduled maintenance, or emergency response as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Network Technician I

Completion of high school or equivalent (General Education Development [GED] Test or California Proficiency Certificate) AND six (6) months of college-level coursework equivalent to 15 semester/22 quarter units or vocational training or technology technician apprenticeship, both covering computer- related work such as computer and mobile endpoints repair, technical troubleshooting, application support, or other related duties.

Acceptable Substitution

Six (6) months of qualifying experience may substitute for the college-level education.

Required Licensing (such as driver’s license, certifications, etc.)

• Possession of a valid State of California driver’s license.

Network Technician II

One (1) year of college-level coursework equivalent to 30 semester/45 quarter units or vocational training or technology technician apprenticeship AND one (1) year of experience, both covering computer-related work such as computer and mobile endpoints repair, technical troubleshooting, application support, or other related duties.

Acceptable Substitution

Additional qualifying experience may substitute for the college-level education on a year-for-year basis.

Required Licensing (such as driver’s license, certifications, etc.)

• Possession of a valid State of California driver’s license.
• Possess a valid CompTIA A+ certificate, or equivalent professional, industry recognized certification acceptable to the City. One (1) additional year of related experience can substitute the CompTIA A+ requirement.

Network Technician III

Two (2) years of college-level coursework equivalent to 60 semester/90 quarter units or vocational training or technology technician apprenticeship AND two (2) years of experience, both covering computer-related work such as computer and mobile endpoints repair, technical troubleshooting, application support, or other related duties.

Acceptable Substitution

Additional qualifying experience may substitute for the college-level education requirement on a year-for- year basis.

Required Licensing (such as driver’s license, certifications, etc.)

• Possession of a valid State of California driver’s license.
• Possess a valid CompTIA A+ certificate, or equivalent professional, industry recognized certification acceptable to the City. One (1) additional year of related experience can substitute the CompTIA A+ requirement.
• Possess a valid Microsoft Specialist certification or an equivalent professional, industry recognized certification acceptable to the City within 6 months of hire.

Background:

Submit to a personal background investigation as required by the Police Department.

Highly Desirable Qualifications

• Experience supporting technology in a law enforcement, public safety, emergency communications, or criminal justice environment.
• Experience installing, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting Mobile Data Computers (MDCs), desktop computers, laptops, and peripheral equipment.
• Experience troubleshooting wired and wireless network connectivity, switches, wireless access points, TCP/IP, and related network infrastructure.
• Experience supporting Microsoft Windows 11, Active Directory, Microsoft 365, and enterprise endpoint management and security technologies.
• Experience supporting and troubleshooting Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone systems and related communications equipment.
• Experience working with CJIS security requirements, DOJ compliance standards, cybersecurity policies, and security controls applicable to law enforcement technology environments.
• Experience using Help Desk/ticketing, remote support, system monitoring, and asset management tools.
• Experience supporting CAD, RMS, AFR, Mobile Data Computing (MDC), or other public safety technology systems.
• Experience providing technical support in a 24/7 mission-critical environment, including after-hours support, incident response, and scheduled maintenance.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a customer-focused technology professional with strong technical, analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills. The successful candidate will be able to effectively diagnose and resolve computer, mobile device, network connectivity, hardware, software, and related technical issues while supporting a mission-critical public safety environment.

The candidate should be able to manage multiple priorities, communicate effectively with technical and non-technical users, work independently and collaboratively as part of a technical team, and respond effectively to urgent operational needs. The ideal candidate will demonstrate initiative, sound judgment, accountability, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to providing reliable and responsive customer service.

Other Qualifications

Competencies: The ideal candidate will possess the following competencies, as demonstrated through education, training, and experience:

Job Expertise: Demonstrates knowledge of computer and mobile endpoint hardware, Microsoft Windows operating systems, network connectivity, peripheral equipment, and enterprise technical support. Possesses experience installing, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting desktop computers, laptops, Mobile Data Computers (MDCs), printers, and related hardware and software.

Demonstrates knowledge of wired and wireless networking, TCP/IP, switches, wireless access points, Active Directory, endpoint security, and related network technologies. Experience supporting Microsoft 365, VoIP communications, Help Desk operations, remote support tools, and system monitoring technologies is desirable.

Possesses an understanding of information technology best practices, cybersecurity principles, security policies, and applicable CJIS and DOJ requirements. Experience supporting law enforcement, public safety, emergency communications, or other 24/7 mission-critical technology environments is highly desirable.

Professional certifications related to computer support, networking, Microsoft technologies, cybersecurity, or other information technology disciplines are desirable.

Communication Skills: Communicates effectively both verbally and in writing. Demonstrates active listening skills and the ability to gather information from users, explain technical issues and solutions clearly, and communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical personnel. Prepares clear and accurate technical documentation, Help Desk records, procedures, and user communications.

Computer Skills: Experienced with computer and mobile endpoint hardware, Microsoft Windows operating systems, Microsoft Active Directory, Microsoft 365, endpoint security technologies, remote support tools, and Help Desk/ticketing systems. Knowledge of wired and wireless networking, TCP/IP, network switches, wireless access points, printers and peripheral devices, mobile computing technologies, and related network troubleshooting tools. Familiarity with PowerShell and other technical support or system administration tools is desirable.

Decision Making: Identifies technical issues, evaluates available information and alternatives, and exercises sound judgment in determining appropriate solutions or escalating issues when necessary. Demonstrates the ability to balance operational needs, technical considerations, security requirements, established procedures, and customer needs when making decisions in a mission-critical public safety environment.

Problem Solving: Uses a logical and systematic approach to diagnose and resolve hardware, software, network connectivity, mobile computing, and user access issues. Identifies root causes, evaluates possible solutions, and takes appropriate corrective action or escalates issues to higher‑level technical staff when necessary. Demonstrates initiative and persistence in resolving technical problems while maintaining system reliability and service continuity in a mission‑critical environment.

Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills: Builds and maintains effective working relationships with colleagues, customers, supervisors, vendors, and other technical teams. Collaborates effectively to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues, supports team objectives, and demonstrates professionalism, flexibility, cooperation, and respect in all interactions.

Customer Service: Provides responsive, professional, and solution-oriented technical support to users and stakeholders. Demonstrates a commitment to delivering high-quality service, understanding customer needs, communicating effectively, and ensuring timely resolution or appropriate escalation of technical issues in a mission-critical public safety environment.

Selection Process

The selection process will consist of an evaluation of the applicant's education, training, experience, and responses to the Job-Specific Questions submitted with the online application. Applications will be screened based on the qualifications, competencies, and technical experience most relevant to the Network Technician position.

Only candidates whose backgrounds best demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to successfully perform the duties of the position will be invited to continue in the selection process.

Additional phases of the selection process may include one or more interviews and may include a technical assessment, practical troubleshooting exercise, or other job-related evaluation designed to assess the candidate's technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and ability to perform the essential functions of the position.

You will be prompted to answer the following job-specific questions during the online application process. Please note that there is a 4,000-character limit, including spaces, for each text response.

• Describe your experience installing, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting desktop computers, laptops, mobile computing devices, and related peripheral equipment. Include any experience with Mobile Data Computers (MDCs) or other vehicle-mounted computing equipment. Please identify the equipment and technologies supported, your specific responsibilities, and your level of experience.
• Describe your experience troubleshooting wired and wireless network connectivity. Include your experience with TCP/IP, network switches, wireless access points, cabling, network printers, and other network infrastructure. Please provide examples of network connectivity problems you have diagnosed and resolved.
• Describe your experience supporting Microsoft Windows environments, including Active Directory, Microsoft 365, user and computer accounts, permissions, endpoint configuration, software installation, security updates, antivirus/endpoint protection, and related technologies. Please identify the technologies you have supported and describe your specific responsibilities.
• Describe your experience providing technical support in a Help Desk, desktop support, field support, or Information Technology environment. Include the types and number of users supported, Help Desk or ticketing systems used, remote support tools, types of technical issues handled, and your approach to diagnosing, troubleshooting, resolving, documenting, and escalating technical problems.
• Please list all technical certifications you currently hold or have previously held, including the certification name, issuing organization, and year obtained. Examples may include CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Microsoft, Cisco, ITIL, or other information technology-related certifications.
• Describe your experience supporting technology in a law enforcement, public safety, emergency communications, criminal justice, or other mission-critical environment. Include any experience supporting Mobile Data Computers (MDCs), Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), Records Management Systems (RMS), Automated Field Reporting (AFR), VoIP communications, or other public safety technologies. Please describe your specific role and responsibilities.
• Describe your experience working in a 24/7 operational environment. Include any on-call responsibilities, after-hours support, scheduled maintenance, incident response, or emergency troubleshooting experience. Please provide an example of a critical technical issue you helped resolve and describe the actions you took to restore service.

You must answer all job-specific questions to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration.

If you have questions about the duties of this position, please contact Rudy Yeung at [e-mail].

If you have questions about the selection or hiring processes, please contact Alexandria Rodriguez at [e-mail]

Additional Information

Employment Eligibility:

Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of San Jose will NOT sponsor, represent or sign any documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1-B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.

You must answer all job-specific questions to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applicants are expected to write their own essays/responses.

Please note that applications are currently not accepted through CalOpps or any other third party job board application system.

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple positions in this, or other divisions or departments. If you are interested in employment in this classification, you should apply to ensure you are considered for additional opportunities that may utilize the applicants from this recruitment.

Please allow adequate time to complete the application and submit before the deadline or the system may not save your application. If your online application was successfully submitted, you will receive an automatic confirmation email to the email address you provided. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE THE CONFIRMATION, please email [e-mail] and we will research the status of your application.

AI and the Hiring Process

We recognize that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming part of daily life and can be a valuable tool for learning, research, and professional growth. We encourage candidates to use AI responsibly as a support in preparing application materials, live assessments, and interviews. However we value authenticity, accuracy and truthfulness. Application responses and interview answers must reflect your own knowledge, skills, and experiences. While AI can supplement preparation, it cannot replace the originality and judgment we look for in our employees. This ensures fairness, transparency, and equity for all applicants in the hiring process.