Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer)

City of Long Beach

Long Beach, CA

JOB DETAILS
SALARY
$30.58–$76.54 Per Hour
SKILLS
Acceptance Testing, Access Control, Background Investigation, Call Centers, Candidate Qualification, Cisco Certifications, Cisco Network Systems, Cisco Switches, Communication Skills, Communication System Design, Computer Firmware, Computer Networks, Computer Science, Computer Security, Cost Benefit Analysis, Customer Support/Service, DNA, Dental Insurance, Diversity, Documentation, Documentation Standards, Driver's License, Employee Benefits, FCC (Federal Communications Commission), Feasibility Analysis, Field Trials, Firewalls, Flexible Spending Accounts, General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL), Hardware Configuration Management, Health Insurance, Hubs, Internet Security, Khmer Language, Legal, Lift/Move 40 Pounds, Microwaves, Modems, Multilingual, Network Administration/Management, Network Architecture/Engineering, Network Configuration Management, Network Design, Network Integration, Network Routers, Network Routing, Network Security, Network Software, Network Switching, Network System Hardware, Network Topology, PBX (Private Branch eXchange), People Management, Regulations, Regulatory Compliance, Retirement Plan, Risk Analysis, Root Cause Analysis, Routing Protocols, Safety Compliance, Safety/Work Safety, Staff Training, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Standards Development, Systems Administration/Management, TDM (Time Division Multiplexing), Telecommunications, Television Broadcasting, Time Management, Training Program, Two Way Radio, VPN (Virtual Private Network), VoIP (Voice over IP), Willing to Travel, Wireless Communications, Wireless Radio, Wireless Security
LOCATION
Long Beach, CA
POSTED
2 days ago

Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer)

Salary

$30.58 - $76.54 Hourly

Location

City of Long Beach, CA

Job Type

Classified - Full-Time, Permanent

Job Number

H68AN-26B

Department

Multiple Departments - (CL)

Opening Date

07/24/2026

Closing Date

8/7/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

  • Description
  • Benefits
  • Questions

DESCRIPTION

Applications are available online beginning Friday, July 24, 2026, through 4:30 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026.

Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer) - There is currently one (1) Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer) opening in the Technology & Innovation (TID) Department. The Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer) operates under general supervision and will require specialized expertise in Cisco network design and architecture, routing and switching, routing protocols, network security, wireless technologies, DNA, and Zero Trust. This role will be responsible for creating configuration templates for network hardware; creating network firmware standards and updating schedules; maintaining core network infrastructure, including firewalls, routers, switches, and other related hardware; assessing for risks and vulnerabilities across network hardware & software, and making recommendations to improve network infrastructure and ensure solutions meet the needs of the city network.

Please refer to the Desirable Qualifications listed below for more information.

SALARY INFORMATION:

Grade I - $30.579 - $41.579 Hourly

Grade II - $33.845 - $45.992 Hourly

Grade III - $37.419 - $50.862 Hourly

Grade IV - $42.431 - 57.788 Hourly

Grade V - $46.922 - $63.920 Hourly

Grade VI - $51.697 - $70.775 Hourly

Grade VII - $56.870 - $76.540 Hourly

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Under supervision, maintains, installs, repairs, plans and designs communication systems and equipment; may act in a lead or supervisory capacity; adapts, assembles, installs, and operates electronic equipment (e.g. mobile and portable radios, remote base stations, microwave systems, mobile data terminals, and cellular modems); may install, repair, maintain, configure, and upgrade TDM and VOIP telephone systems, IVRs, Call Centers, PBXs, and network cameras; may install, repair, maintain, configure, and upgrade data communication equipment such as hubs, routers, APs, and switches; may install, repair, maintain, configure, and upgrade servers; provides effective customer service by keeping customers informed of progress, ensuring satisfaction, providing advice, etc.; may develop, conduct, or implement in-service training programs, safety programs, field tests, and/or work inspections; may act as a project leader or liaison between user departments and the communications groups; may perform complex and detailed cost benefit analysis and feasibility studies; may represent the City during meetings with other regulatory bodies; may ensure strict enforcement and compliance with safety regulations; and performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS TO FILE

Applicants must meet the requirements of Option A, Option B, or Option C to qualify:

Option A:

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Computer Science, Telecommunications, Radio or Television Communications, or related (proof required) * AND one year of paid full-time experience equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless equivalent to a Systems Technician;

OR

Option B:

An associates degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Computer Science, Telecommunications, Radio or Television Communications, or related field (proof required) *AND three (3) years of paid, full-time equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one year of experience equivalent to a Systems Technician;

OR

Option C:

Completion of a one-year certificate program from an accredited technical/vocational school with coursework in computer science, television communications, telecommunications, two-way radio or a related field (proof required) * AND four (4) years of paid full-time equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one year of experience equivalent to a Systems Technician.

Opportunities for Substitution of Education or Experience

Additional related experience may be substituted for the education on a year-for-year basis.

  • Proof of required documents, such as degrees and transcripts, must be uploaded to the online application at the time of filing. Any proofs submitted must contain either the applicants name or other identifying characteristic on the form. Degree must indicate the field of study and transcripts must indicate field of study and degree conferred date. Candidates who possess degrees from colleges or universities from outside the United States must attach proof of educational equivalency at the time of filing.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing;
  • Ability to provide effective customer service;
  • Ability to move and lift up to 40 pounds;
  • Ability to work at heights of 160 feet;

A Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radiotelephone Operators License (GROL) is required before passing probation for some positions that configure and repair two-way radios in the Wireless Division.

Willingness to work an irregular schedule, including nights, weekends, overtime, and holidays.

A valid driver's license or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel may be required for some assignments.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

Communication Specialist V - Infrastructure Services Bureau, Network Division, Network Infrastructure Group

  • Knowledge of cybersecurity concepts and principles, network security, and Zero-Trust Implementation.
  • Experience integrating enterprise IT networks with operational technology systems (e.g., cameras, access control, BMS, or alarms).
  • Experience with Cisco Routing and Switching, VPN, SDWAN, and site-to-site VPN.
  • Experience with routing protocols and implementation.
  • Experience with Cisco Enterprise Networks, Cisco Network Design, Architecture, and DNA/Catalyst.
  • Cisco Certifications are desirable.
  • Ability to update and create documentation, update Standard Operating Procedures, and train staff.
  • Ability to design network topologies and update documentation to ensure accurate understanding and efficient troubleshooting of the network infrastructure.
  • Ability to assist in investigations of security incidents, root cause analysis and resolution documentation in incident reports.
  • Ability to manage large-scale deployments/projects.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

EXAMINATION WEIGHTS:

Application and Supplemental Application......................................................Qualifying

Screening of applicants will be conducted on the basis of application and required supplemental application submitted. This selection procedure will be conducted using a continuous non-competitive process, which means applications are evaluated solely on training, experience, education, or certification. All applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be placed on an eligible list. Applicants receiving Veteran's Credit will be placed on the eligible list first and then in the order in which applications were filed. This is a continuous eligible list, which means eligible lists may be established periodically and may expire six months from their effective date. Applicants may apply only once during a four-month period. Candidates meeting the minimum qualifications with applications received by August 7, 2026, will be placed on Test #01 established eligible list.

If you have not received notification within two weeks after close of filing , please contact the Human Resources Department at (562) 570-7008.

In accordance with Civil Service Procedure 3.38, all eligible veterans that successfully qualify on any or all open competitive examinations shall receive an additional credit of ten (10) points that will be added to their original passing score. Disabled veterans passing the examination shall receive a credit of fifteen (15) points that will be added to their original passing score. (A copy of the veterans DD-214, Member 4 form indicating honorable discharge must be attached to the application at the time of filing.)

This position is eligible for Local Hiring Preferences and Veterans Preference Points. Learn more about available preferences and eligibility criteria here: www.longbeach.gov/jobs/working-for-the-city/hiring-preferences

EQUITY AND INCLUSION

The City of Long Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as an individual with a disability, or other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We value diversity in our workforce and are committed to creating a workplace where every employee is respected and included. We strive to reflect the diversity of our community at all levels of the organization, promote fair and equitable employment practices, advance equity, and inclusion through our work with staff and community partners, and promote transparency by publishing workforce demographic information, including diversity and pay data by race and gender.

The City of Long Beach will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. You are not required to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until you receive a conditional job offer. If the City of Long Beach has concerns about a conviction that is directly related to the job after making a conditional job offer and conducting a background check, you will have the opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide evidence to mitigate concerns, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Find out more about the Fair Chance Act by visiting https://calcivilrights.ca.gov/fair-chance-act

In support of the Citys Language Access Policy, bilingual skills (Spanish, Khmer, and/or Tagalog) are desirable for positions interacting with the public.

This information is available in an alternative format by request at (562) 570-6202. If special accommodation is desired, please contact the Talent Management Department two (2) business days prior to the test at (562) 570-7008. For the hearing impaired, call 562) 570-6638.

An Equal Opportunity Employer.

H68AN-26B RC:CS 07/24/2026

Employee Benefits

The City of Long Beach offers its employees opportunities to grow personally and professionally. As a permanent employee, you are eligible to receive fringe benefits that include:

  • Medical and Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Retirement Plan (P.E.R.S.)
  • Paid Vacation, Personal Holidays and Sick Leave
  • Deferred Compensation
  • Credit Union Membership
  • Free Bus Transportation (Long Beach Transit)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Free Employee Parking
  • Paid Parental Leave*
  • Paid Parental Leave - after six (6) months of City employment; up to 30 calendar days (160 hours/192 hours for sworn platoon) of PPL, taken in full-day increments, in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child, up to the age of seventeen (17).

01

INSTRUCTIONS: The purpose of these supplemental questions is to derive more specific information about your qualifications for the Communication Specialist I-VII position. Applicants must clearly demonstrate their qualifying experience. These questions will serve as the basis for qualifying candidates for advancement into the selection process. Be specific and detailed in your responses. Resumes should be attached, but may not be substituted in lieu of the required application forms (i.e., responses should NOT state "see resume"). Please be advised that failure to answer the required questions will result in an incomplete application and will jeopardize your opportunity to be placed on the eligible list. The application, supplemental questionnaire, and attachments must be completed and received by the filing deadline. Proof of any required documents must be uploaded to the online application. Please be advised that failure to provide the required documents will result in an incomplete application and will jeopardize your opportunity to be placed on the eligible list. If you require assistance, please call our customer service line at (562) 570-7008 during the filing period between the hours of 7:30 AM through 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, or email HR-TalentAcquisition@longbeach.gov and include COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST I-VII in the subject line. Do you understand the instructions for completing and submitting the application and supplemental questionnaire for this job opportunity?

  • Yes

02

REQUIREMENTS TO FILE: Please indicate how you meet the requirements to file for Communication Specialist I-VII:

  • Option A: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Computer Science, Telecommunications, Radio or Television Communications, or related (proof required) * AND one year of paid full-time experience equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications equivalent to a Systems Technician;
  • Option B: An associates degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Computer Science, Telecommunications, Radio or Television Communications, or related field (proof required) *AND three (3) years of paid, full-time equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one year of experience equivalent to a Systems Technician;
  • Option C: Completion of a one-year certificate program from an accredited technical/vocational school with coursework in computer science, television communications, telecommunications, two-way radio or a related field (proof required) * AND four (4) years of paid full-time equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one year of experience equivalent to a Systems Technician.
  • I am substituting related experience for the required education on a year-for-year basis. My combined experience and/or education equals five (5) years or more of paid full-time equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one (1) year of experience equivalent to a Systems Technician. (proof of education is required)*
  • I do not meet any of the above requirements. I understand that selecting this option will disqualify me from this position.

03

Applicants must have one year or more of paid, full-time experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one (1) year of experience equivalent to a Systems Technician. How many years of paid full-time equivalent-related experience do you have?

  • 1 to 11 months
  • 1 to 2 years
  • 3 years
  • 4 years
  • 5 years or more
  • I have no related work experience.

04

EXPERIENCE Experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one (1) year of experience equivalent to a Systems Technician is required. Please describe your qualifying work experience in the section below. Your response must include the following information for each qualifying experience: 1) Job Title; 2) Employer Name; 3) Dates of Employment; and 4) Job Duties Related to this Position. If you do not have any experience, please type NONE. Do not state "see resume". Incomplete responses will not receive credit.

05

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES: The following Knowledge, Skills and Abilities are required for the position. • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing; • Ability to provide effective customer service; • Ability to move and lift up to 40 pounds; • Ability to work at heights of 160 feet. A Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radiotelephone Operators License (GROL) is required before passing probation for some positions that configure and repair two-way radios in the Wireless Division. Willingness to work an irregular schedule, including nights, weekends, overtime, and holidays. A valid driver's license or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel may be required for some assignments. I understand that if selected for the position, I must be willing and able to do all of the aforementioned.

  • Yes
  • No

06

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS - Optional: There are desirable qualifications for the Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer) vacancy. If you want your application to be considered for the Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer) position, you must complete the next set of questions pertaining to this vacancy. Please select the area, if any, that you have certifications, knowledge, abilities, and/or experience in: Please select the areas in which you have experience, if any:

  • Knowledge of cybersecurity concepts and principles, network security, and Zero-Trust Implementation.
  • Experience integrating enterprise IT networks with operational technology systems (e.g., cameras, access control, BMS, or alarms).
  • Experience with Cisco Routing and Switching, VPN, SDWAN, and site-to-site VPN.
  • Experience with routing protocols and implementation.
  • Experience with Cisco Enterprise Networks, Cisco Network Design, Architecture, and DNA/Catalyst.
  • Ability to design network topologies and update documentation to ensure accurate understanding and efficient troubleshooting of the network infrastructure.
  • Ability to assist in investigations of security incidents, root cause analysis and resolution documentation in incident reports.
  • Ability to manage large-scale deployments/projects.
  • Other (describe on next question.)
  • None of the above.

07

Please describe in detail your experience in each of the Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer) area(s) selected on Question 6. If applicable, specify the certification(s) obtained and/or the name of the organization where you gained professional full-time experience related to the qualifications listed on Question 6. Your response must be complete to receive credit for this experience. Incomplete responses WILL NOT receive credit. If you do not have any related experience, indicate NONE

08

The City of Long Beach offers local hiring preference points to applicants who meet certain criteria, including residency, higher education, internal non-career employment, and completion of internships or apprenticeships. If you would like to be considered for these points for Communication Specialist (Network Engineer), NeoGov Job Number: H68AN-26B, please complete the Local Hiring Preferences Questionnaire using the following link: Local Hiring Preferences

and upload any required verification documents in PDF format. Note: You will need to reference NeoGov Job Number: H68AN-26B. Incomplete questionnaires or missing documents will result in your application being reviewed without the application of local hiring preference points. For any questions or for more information, please call the Talent Acquisition help desk at (562) 570-7008 or visit Hiring Preferences

Please select one of the following options to confirm your status regarding the local hiring preference points:

  • I have completed the Local Hiring Preferences Questionnaire using the link provided and submitted all required documents for consideration of local hiring preference points.
  • I have reviewed the eligibility criteria, and the local hiring preference points do not apply to me. I do not wish to be considered for local hiring preference points, even if eligible.

09

By answering Yes, I understand that the City of Long Beach utilizes electronic mail (email) to notify applicants of important information related to job applications submitted online through Governmentjobs.com. As an applicant, if I do not wish to receive emails from the City of Long Beach and decide to unsubscribe from email notifications and/or text messages, I may miss important information (i.e. employment opportunities) regarding the status of any job applications that I submit online. If you have questions or need clarification, please contact the Human Resources Department at (562) 570-7008.

  • Yes

10

By answering Yes, and submitting this application, I certify the following: 1) I have personally completed the information provided and it is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge; and 2) I understand that any falsification may cancel any terms, conditions, or privileges of employment. I understand and acknowledge the aforementioned statement.

  • Yes

11

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: By answering Yes, I understand that proof of required documents must be submitted as attachments at the time of filing. I also understand that failure to submit all required documents at the time of filing will result in my application being considered incomplete. Proofs for this position may include: college transcripts/degrees and/or DD-214 Member 4 Form, if claiming veterans preference. Please note that candidates who possess degrees from colleges or universities from outside the United States must attach proof of educational equivalency at the time of filing.

For information on evaluation services: Education Evaluation Services

  • Yes

Required Question

Employer City of Long Beach

Department Multiple Departments - (CL) Address Human Resources Department

411 W. Ocean Blvd., 4th Fl

Long Beach, California, 90802

Phone (562) 570-6202

Website https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/longbeach

About the Company

C

City of Long Beach