Lead / Co-Facilitator

Applied Training Solutions; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Training Solutions is seeking an experienced Lead / Co-Facilitator to drive HSEEP-compliant state exercise facilitation across various locations within the Commonwealth of Virginia. The selected candidate will manage participant discussions and ensure exercise objectives align with HSEEP standards.

Key responsibilities include guiding exercises, managing group dynamics, and developing facilitation materials. Candidates must have demonstrated experience in exercise facilitation and strong communication skills. U.S. citizenship is mandatory for this role.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience as an exercise facilitator for HSEEP-compliant exercises.
• Strong knowledge of exercise design and facilitation techniques.
• U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Lead or Co-Facilitate HSEEP-compliant exercises.
• Manage discussions and participant engagement.
• Support development of facilitation materials.

Skills

Communication skills

Group dynamics management

Exercise facilitation

HSEEP knowledge

Job description

Lead / Co-Facilitator 1099 - Consultant Various locations within the Commonwealth of Virginia

Position Summary

Applied Training Solutions, LLC is seeking an experienced Lead / Co-Facilitator to support HSEEP‑compliant state exercises. The Lead / Co‑Facilitator is responsible for leading and supporting exercise facilitation activities, guiding participant discussion and exercise play, and ensuring exercise objectives, scenario flow, and core capabilities are addressed in accordance with the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP). This role works closely with exercise planners, controllers, evaluators, and stakeholders to maintain exercise integrity, manage participant engagement, and support effective exercise outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Lead or Co‑Facilitator for seminars, workshops, tabletop, functional, and full‑scale exercises conducted in accordance with HSEEP doctrine
• Lead and manage facilitated discussions to ensure exercise objectives, scenario intent, and core capabilities are addressed
• Guide participant decision‑making, discussion flow, and engagement throughout exercise play
• Provide clear instructions on exercise rules, roles, and expectations to participants
• Manage group dynamics, maintain time discipline, and keep discussions focused and productive
• Support scenario flow and sequence of events in coordination with Exercise Control
• Coordinate closely with Controllers to ensure accurate and consistent exercise play
• Support Evaluators by reinforcing objectives and clarifying discussion points as needed
• Assist in the development and use of HSEEP‑compliant facilitation tools, including Facilitator Guides, agendas, scripts, and participant materials
• Participate in hot washes and after‑action discussions to help capture key observations and discussion outcomes
• Support AAR and Improvement Plan development by providing facilitator input and subject‑matter insights
• Coordinate with exercise planners and training staff to ensure facilitation aligns with exercise design and goals
• Maintain professionalism, neutrality, and confidentiality throughout the exercise process
• Maintain accurate notes and records to support after‑action reporting and future planning

Basic Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience serving as an exercise facilitator or co‑facilitator for HSEEP‑compliant exercises
• Strong knowledge of exercise design, facilitation techniques, and HSEEP doctrine
• Ability to guide discussions, manage group dynamics, and maintain exercise flow
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to remain objective and adaptable in dynamic exercise environments
• Familiarity with Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP)
• Must be a U.S. citizen

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in emergency management, preparedness, or planning roles
• FEMA HSEEP training (e.g., IS‑120, IS‑130, IS‑139, or equivalent)
• Experience facilitating multi‑agency, multi‑jurisdictional exercises
• Incident Command System training (ICS‑300, ICS‑400 preferred)
• Knowledge of state emergency response plans, procedures, and inter‑agency coordination
• MEPP qualified (Master Exercise Practitioner Program) or demonstrated equivalent experience supporting complex, multi‑agency HSEEP‑compliant exercises

Other Requirements

• U.S. citizenship required: Yes
• Performance location: On‑site while on assignment (various locations within the Commonwealth of Virginia)
• Relocation assistance: Not applicable
• Clearance required: None
• Travel required: Yes – up to 100% while on assignment

Working Environment

The work environment will include EOCs, training venues, conference facilities, or field locations depending on assignment. The position may require extended work hours beyond 12 hours per day, working under high operational tempo, and travel to locations throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. U.S. citizenship is required for most positions.