Hazard Mitigation Section Chief

Vermont Emergency Management (VEM) has an exciting opening for a position on the leadership team working to support Vermont communities in reducing their future risk to natural hazards, predominantly flooding.

VEM is looking for a mission-driven professional to lead our Hazard Mitigation Section. This position is dynamic and constantly changing - the ideal candidate is adaptable with drive for continuous process improvement.

This position:

• Works under the supervision of the Deputy Director and supervise a team of planners, grants managers, temporary staff and interns.
• Leads the team responsibilities for the development of Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) grant applications for submittal to FEMA while maintaining statewide scope and visibility on potential, ongoing, and past projects. This includes working with municipalities, state agencies, and nonprofits across Vermont to develop applications, designing and implementing outreach activities for HMA application opportunities, and coordinating FEMA-applicant correspondence regarding HMA program development and individual applications.
• Manages program development and project implementation for the Flood Resilient Communities Fund (FRCF) and any future state-funded programs to reduce risk to natural hazards.
• Oversees the development and implementation of the State Hazard Mitigation Plan and supervises planning assistance to local governments and other organizations in the development of mitigation plans.
• Serves as the primary contact regarding hazard mitigation activities for the Vermont Legislature and the media.
• Participates in the State Emergency Operation Center activations, training, and Division-wide activities as appropriate.

The State of Vermont offers flexible telework. The person hired for this position will be expected to live in Vermont with the ability to be in Waterbury at a minimum of one pre-determined weekday per week, which is currently Tuesday but subject to change, as well as during activations of the State Emergency Operations Center.

This position, Hazard Mitigation Section Chief (Job Requisition #53043), is open to all State employees and external applicants.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Stephanie Smith at stephanie.a.smith@vermont.gov.
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.

PUBLIC SAFETY BACKGROUND CHECKS: Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position to include Motor Vehicle/Criminal Records, Personal History, Credit and any additional background check(s).

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.

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.

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium
• Dental Plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation457(b) plan
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan; many jobs also allow for a flexible schedule
• Low cost group life insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State's employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.