Emergency Management Specialist

Dept of Transportation; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is seeking an experienced Emergency Preparedness and Drone Program Lead to develop, plan, coordinate and evaluate all emergency preparedness events for the agency. The role also provides drone program expertise and serves as the lead NIMS/ICS trainer across the department.

Responsibilities include coordinating with federal and local agencies, advising on policy and resource deployment, and guiding DDOT’s response to weather and other emergencies.

Qualifications

• At least one year of specialized experience or equivalent to the next lowest grade level.
• Five+ years of related experience preferred.
• Experience with emergency preparedness programs and interagency coordination.
• Experience with drone operations and policy development preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop, plan, coordinate and evaluate all emergency preparedness events.
• Provide drone support and expertise for the department’s Drone Program.
• Lead NIMS and ICS trainer for the department.
• Coordinate with District and federal agencies to implement action plans.
• Support weather-related emergency response and resource deployment.

Skills

Emergency preparedness

Interagency coordination

Policy development

Public speaking / training

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Drone operations

NIMS/ICS training

Job description

This position is located with District Department of Transportation (DDOT) Office of the Director, Safety and Security Division.

The incumbent in this role will develop, plan, coordinate and evaluate all emergency preparedness events and emergency support functions in DDOT. Additionally, this position will provide drone support and expertise for the department’s Drone Program, as well serve as lead National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) trainer.

Duties and Responsibilities

Make commitments on behalf of the District of Columbia (District) based upon guidelines provided by the Federal and District agencies such as the Federal Highway Administration, District agencies and regional jurisdiction officials. Works closely with the agencies to exchange methodologies, policies, procedures and requirements relative to an effective action plan. Coordinates closely with the department’s Drone Program, sharing knowledge and expertise. Provides operational hands‑on support and policy guidance.

Works closely with all levels of management, technical staff and union representatives within DDOT in planning and executing the comprehensive emergency response plan. Provides guidance and technical assistance in resolving problems and regularly monitors situations to ensure correction of deficiencies related to emergency preparedness events. Coordinates activities in response to weather related conditions that create emergency situations or that cause disruptions in normal business and community activities such as snow emergencies, flooding, etc. Coordination activities include monitoring pending and current weather situations, development and communication of response plans, and coordination with District agencies in the provision of equipment, services and human resources.

The incumbent will work independently in performing duties relating to the DDOT emergency responses. Incumbent will be expected to formulate plans with little guidance and make policy and operational recommendations to the Safety and Security division Managers for a recommended plan of action and the best utilization of available resources and acquisition of any new resources needed for a smooth operation.

Qualifications and Education

The incumbent must possess at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lowest grade level in the normal line of progression. Specialized experience is experience which is directly related to the line of work of the position and has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position or a combination of experience and a four‑year degree from an accredited institution.

Preferred Experience:

Extensive knowledge of operational entities to assure attainment of established goals and objectives. Knowledge of the operations of various local agencies of the District in order to make sure that DDOT provides maximum support during critical emergencies. Knowledge of the principles and practice of planning, public administration, intergovernmental coordination, and quantitative measures to support operational recommendations. Ability to perform technical research, collect, and assimilate and interpret data leading to the most efficient coordination of emergency events responses. Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, to present recommendations and proposals. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, government officials, media and the general public. Skills in evaluating the effectiveness of the proposed programs and to make necessary operational adjustments.

Demonstrated professional expertise in drone operations and policy development, supported by extensive hands‑on operational experience.”

Professional knowledge of the concepts of emergency preparedness, critical infrastructure protection, resilience, and incident command. A minimum of five (5) years of related experience is preferred. Experience with and knowledge of the DC HSEMA Emergency Preparedness and Critical Infrastructure programs is preferred.

Master’s degree is preferred.

Licenses and Certification

ICS and NIMS certifications are preferred.

Working Conditions/Environment

The work is usually performed in an office setting but may also require duties at construction sites, warehouses, outdoor structures, and other field locations. Incumbent may also be exposed to dangerous chemicals and equipment. There may be exposure to the risks and hazards of work environments and conditions requiring special safety precautions and clothing. Incumbent will be required to work and respond during weather emergencies and to travel and move about the District of Columbia during highly inclement weather situations.

Other Significant Facts

Tour of Duty:Varies

Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS‑0301‑13

Promotion Potential: No Known Promotion Potential.

Duration of Appointment: Career Service — Regular

Collective Bargaining Unit (Union): This position is not covered under a Collective Bargaining Unit

Emergency Designation: This position has been designated as an essential employee position under the provisions of District Personnel Manual, Chapter 12. As such, your services may be required in emergency situations to perform crucial duties, i.e., snow removal, debris removal, transportation, shelter operation, food distribution, and communications. These duties may be performed when the government is closed or when most employees are dismissed early. Employees are required to work rotating shifts, to include evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and in on‑call situations. Employees are considered emergency personnel and are subject to call‑in 24 hours a day and will be required to provide the employing agency with a telephone number where they can be reached. This position is subject to 24‑hour duty call, 7 days a week.

Position Designation: The incumbent of this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel Regulations, Suitability – Security Sensitive. Accordingly, the incumbent will be subject to pre‑employment checks (criminal background checks, consumer credit check, traffic record checks, if applicable) as a condition of employment, and will be subject to periodic criminal background checks for the duration of your tenure.

Employee Benefits May Include:

DDOT is an employer of choice for any job seeker who has passion, energy, and enthusiasm about our city. Employee benefits include:

• Health and life insurance benefits and retirement benefits (More information about these benefits is available on the D.C. Department of Human Resources (DCHR) website at www.dchr.dc.gov.)
• Complimentary Capital BikeShare Membership
• Continued professional development, and professional growth through d.University, the in‑house training available for all DDOT employees
• Flexible work schedule (team and role dependent)
• Employer assisted housing loan program, providing payment and/or closing cost financing for first‑time home buyers (restrictions apply).

EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government does not discriminate or retaliate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity and expression, national origin, family responsibilities, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, homeless status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, participation in a legally protected activity, parental status, matriculation, personal appearance, credit information, status as a victim or family member of a victim of domestic violence, sexual offense, or stalking, military service, or other non‑merit factor.