Vermont Emergency Management Deputy Director

Overview

The Vermont Department of Public Safety is seeking a Deputy Director for Vermont Emergency Management (VEM). This pivotal leadership role supports the Director in overseeing daily operations of the Division and plays a key part in planning and executing both mid- and long-term strategic initiatives. The Deputy Director negotiates with state and federal officials to align priorities and serves as a central figure in emergency management communications, representing the Division to national, regional, and local partners, as well as the media.

The Deputy Director facilitates the involvement of federal, state, and non-governmental stakeholders in the development of emergency plans, and ensures the readiness of disaster operations through ongoing assessment and evaluation. This role also oversees the Division's training and exercise activities, maintains liaison with the Vermont Police and Fire Academies, and may serve as the State Coordinating Officer during federally declared disasters. In the Director's absence, the Deputy Director assumes full responsibility for leading the Division.

Additional responsibilities include managing and preparing budgets, coordinating legislative reviews and recommendations, and serving as the State Emergency Operations Center Manager during activations. This is a dynamic role that requires the ability to lead a team, communicate effectively, and build and maintain strong working relationships across a broad network of stakeholders.

The position includes occasional travel and may require on-call availability during emergencies or major incidents.

Who May Apply

This position, Vermont Emergency Management Deputy Director (Job Requisition #52520), is open to all State employees and external applicants.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Eric Forand at eric.forand@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).

Environmental Factors

Normal office working conditions generally prevail with some required travel to various localities throughout the State for which private means of transportation may be required. Emergency management drills and actual emergencies require performance outside of normal duty hours. On-call status may be required during certain periods.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or higher in business or public administration, homeland security, emergency management, or related field AND four (4) or more years of experience in emergency management that includes experience with daily operations, program/policy development and administration, or related field INCLUDING two (2) or more years of supervisory experience.
OR
Six (6) or more years of experience in emergency management that includes experience with daily operations, program/policy development and administration, or related field INCLUDING two (2) or more years of supervisory experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in relevant field.
Knowledge of Vermont Emergency Management operations.
Experience working with federal, state, and community partners.

Special Requirements

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

Total Compensation

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 and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low cost group life insurance
• 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.