Job Specification Details

Planning, coordinating, and informational work at a technical level involving the provision of emergency and mitigation planning and grant program support for the Department of Public Safety in conjunction with regional and national hazard mitigation initiatives. Work involves the supervision and coordination of the activities of a state hazard mitigation program which involves the management of funds in the millions of dollars, covering several Federal and State programs. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Deputy Director. Supervision of hazard mitigation planners and grants managers that are part of the sustaining structure of the program and temporary and contract support personnel that may supplement routine program activities in a large-scale incident. Extensive interaction occurs with emergency management and governmental officials at the regional, state, and local levels.

The Hazard Mitigation Section Chief (and State Hazard Mitigation Officer) supervises the assistance to local governments, state agencies, and non-profit sector to develop plans to mitigate and recover from the effects of natural disasters. Coordinates outreach and plan development and provides technical support in planning, data collection and analysis. 

Supervises the implementation of approved plans. Determines whether proposed mitigation measures are consistent with existing codes and are cost effective. Trains local groups in the implementation of local hazard mitigation plans which are compatible with federal and state plans. Coordinates interagency mitigation activities throughout the state both before and after natural disasters.

Develops, maintains, and oversees implementation of the State Hazard Mitigation Plan. Supervises the provision of planning assistance to local governments and other organizations in the development of mitigation projects and initiatives such as buyouts, relocation, flood-proofing, structural elevation, floodplain and wetland restoration, and more.

Provides outreach support, oversight, publicity and technical assistance to various agencies and towns on federal grant applications under FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) programs, to include: the legacy Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program, the Building Resilient Infrastructures and Communities (BRIC) program, Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA), the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), and the Congressionally Directed Spending allocated under the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) grant program. Assists towns and cities in conducting an all-hazard vulnerability analysis. Participates in emergency response drills. Coordinates planning and technical assistance provided to local jurisdictions by other emergency management staff and programs. Oversees hazard mitigation planners responsible for local hazard mitigation plans and resource materials. Reviews draft legislation and prepares recommendations. Attends meetings and conducts workshops and training sessions. Prepares related reports. Performs related duties as required.

Manages program development and project implementation for the Flood Resilient Communities Fund (FRCF) and any future state-funded programs to reduce future risk to natural hazards.

Serves as the primary contact regarding hazard mitigation activities for the Vermont Legislature and the media. 

Supervises the hazard mitigation team. 

Serves as a Section Chief within the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) during activations. 

Normal office conditions generally prevail with some required travel to various localities throughout the State. Incumbents should have private means of transportation available. Emergency management drills and actual emergencies may require performance outside of normal hours. On-call status may be required.

Knowledge of supervisory and management techniques.

Knowledge of Federal Hazard mitigation programs.

Working knowledge of the principles and techniques of effective communications.

Working knowledge of information dissemination practices and techniques.

Knowledge of personal computers and database management software.

Awareness of the background and objectives of emergency management programs.

Awareness of the nature and effects of various types of natural disasters.

Ability to interpret program rules into meaningful programs for state and local communities.

Ability to analyze problems, interpret data, determine alternatives, and propose solutions.

Ability to communicate effectively through a variety of media.

Ability to prepare and present oral reports of considerable complexity with clarity and persuasiveness.

Strong public speaking and presentation skills.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Six (6) or more years of experience involving emergency management, hazard mitigation, policy and/or program planning, or related field INCLUDING at least one (1) year or more managerial, supervisory, or team lead experience.

Bachelor's degree or higher in emergency management, homeland security, public health, or related field.

Applicants will undergo a background check consisting of motor vehicle and criminal records.