Position Summary

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is seeking an organized, professional, and results oriented individual to serve as Telecommunications Specialist. Under general supervision, this position will independently evaluate Department telecommunications requests within Cook County. The position will determine the type of service required and fiscal impact on budget. The position will also prioritize and schedule installations, recommend systems, and work extensively with the implementation and maintenance of Voice Over Internet Protocol and emergency communication devices. The position will also authorize changes, improvements, and repairs. This position will provide advice and consultation to management regarding technical aspects of telecommunications functions and will provide technical and support services in the areas of related communications equipment. This position is a great opportunity for someone who is detail oriented and dedicated to playing a role in ensuring the effectiveness of the Department’s vital telecommunications program. DCFS offers a competitive salary plan, excellent benefits, and a pension program. The ideal candidate for this position will have excellent organizational skills, leadership capabilities, and the ability to multi-task. We invite all qualified applicants to apply to join our innovative team to help make a difference in the lives of children and families.

Job Responsibilities

1. Serves as a Telecommunications Specialist for Cook County

2. Provides advice and consultation to high-level management regarding technical aspects of telecommunications functions

3. Provides input and assistance in the design of VOIP and other phone systems

4. Provides technical and support services to the Department in the areas of related communications equipment, including both landline and wireless phones, emergency communication devices, and portable conference phones, to include information on area coverage, users’ working knowledge, training, purchasing, cost, and delivery information

5. Coordinates the procurement and installation of telephone service and related equipment to meet move and/or occupancy date with all Department divisions, regions, field offices and other units within the Cook County area when moves occur

6. Evaluates procured systems’ performance, inspecting installations, validating product performance, and confirming bid spec delivery

7. Monitors the Department records of serial numbers, cell phone numbers, and actions taken, such as cancellations, replacements, etc.

8. Monitors the Department’s various Cook County telecommunication vouchers for proper accounting procedures, including accuracy of billings, proper account codes, timely payment, and abuse of the system as relates to the Department’s written policy

9. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above

Minimum Qualifications

1. Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of college, preferably with coursework in communications, data processing, or a related discipline

2. Requires one year of technical experience in the field of telecommunications

Preferred Qualifications (In Order of Significance)

1. One year of experience in a public or business organization utilizing working knowledge of current trends, new service offerings, and technical improvements in telecommunication equipment and services

2. One year of experience in a public or business organization utilizing working knowledge of telecommunication equipment, systems, and services

3. One year of experience in a public or business organization utilizing the ability to review telephone requests for accuracy and completeness and to ensure the organization’s standards and services are followed

4. One year of experience in a public or business organization utilizing the ability to provide and implement economical and effective management resolutions to problems presented to avoid unnecessary expenditures and obsolete and incompatible equipment and systems

5. One year of experience in a public or business organization utilizing the ability to compare differences and limitations of various telecommunications service offerings by various vendors and common carriers and the ability to explain such services to user agency representatives

6. One year of experience in a public or business organization utilizing the ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with fellow employees, agency telecommunications coordinators, and outside vendors

Conditions of Employment

1. Requires ability to pass a background check

2. Requires ability to travel and possession of a valid driver’s license