Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network (PSERN), Washington – Executive Director

About the Position

Are you a strategic, collaborative, and service-focused executive with a passion for public safety communications and operational excellence? The Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network (PSERN) Operator is seeking its next Executive Director to lead one of the nation’s most advanced regional radio systems.

The Executive Director will provide visionary leadership to a highly skilled team, ensuring seamless radio communications for emergency responders across King County. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a mission-critical organization that protects lives and strengthens communities every day.

Located in the heart of the Puget Sound Region, King County, Washington, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, proximity to water, and temperate climate. Residents enjoy abundant recreational opportunities—from hiking, boating, and skiing to exploring world-class dining, arts, and cultural attractions.

The PSERN Operator is a local government entity established under Washington State law through an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between King County and various cities within the county. Governed by a six-member Board of Directors, the Operator manages, maintains, and upgrades the regional emergency radio communications network. The Executive Director, appointed by the Board, oversees daily operations and leads a staff of professionals responsible for ensuring the reliability and performance of the system that serves hundreds of public safety agencies.

Required qualifications for this position include:

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical, scientific, business, or financial field
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a director-level position (or equivalent experience) leading staff responsible for maintenance, operations, upgrades, updates, and repair of public safety information and communications technology and infrastructure
• 5 years managing technology service delivery, budgeting, and capital planning
• Experience supervising represented staff and negotiating collective agreements
• The successful candidate will be required to pass a background investigation for CJIS purposes

Preferred qualifications include:

• Senior leadership experience in a public safety or emergency management agency
• Experience managing complex, politically sensitive projects
• Knowledge of 800 MHz RF, microwave, and IP transport systems
• Familiarity with NIMS and ICS frameworks

The salary range for this position is $224,000 – $255,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience.

For more information on this position, contact:

Andy Kancel, Senior Vice President

[email protected] | 817-994-6295