Hazard Mitigation Specialist

State of Illinois•Springfield, MO

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) is seeking a Hazard Mitigation Specialist in its Division of Recovery. The position serves as a Disaster Services Planner for the Hazard Mitigation Unit, providing professional emergency services planning and supporting applicants through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation grant process. The specialist develops plans, procedures, and other program materials; provides education to state agency and local government personnel; coordinates with agency staff; and participates in disaster response and recovery activities. Other duties may be assigned within the scope of these responsibilities. IEMA-OHS prepares the State of Illinois for natural, manmade, and technological disasters, hazards, and acts of terrorism. It coordinates state disaster mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery programs and activities; supports local governments with emergency operations plans; and maintains the Illinois Emergency Operations Plan. This is a union position subject to the applicable collective bargaining agreement. The position is based at the agency’s Springfield headquarters, with a hybrid schedule available for 2 to 5 days per week in the office depending on operational needs. Regular hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; overtime, including evenings and weekends, may be required.

Requirements

Education equivalent to completion of four years of college, preferably with coursework in planning, business, or public administration.
Two years of professional experience in various planning areas, such as regional, urban, or management planning.
Ability to travel for work, including overnight stays as appropriate.
Appropriate, valid driver’s license.
Ability to work overtime, including evenings and weekends, when requested or required.
Ability to use state-issued equipment, such as a laptop and cellphone.
Successful completion of a criminal history check through the Illinois State Police.

Nice To Haves

Two years of professional experience in emergency management, hazard mitigation, or a closely related field.
One year of professional experience administering federal grants, such as FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, including reviewing applicant documentation, processing payments, and completing project closeout.
One year of professional experience developing plans, procedures, or policies for review by local, state, or federal agencies.
One year of professional experience developing and delivering training or presentations to government personnel.
Two years of professional experience working with local, state, and federal agencies and private-sector stakeholders.
One year of professional experience using Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, SharePoint) and Adobe Acrobat Pro, or similar programs.

Responsibilities

Provide professional emergency services planning for applicants throughout the FEMA Hazard Mitigation grant process.
Develop plans, procedures, and other materials for Hazard Mitigation programs.
Conduct educational opportunities for state agency and local government personnel regarding Hazard Mitigation program procedures.
Consult and coordinate with other agency staff regarding Hazard Mitigation program functions and coordination.
Participate in disaster response and recovery activities.
Perform other duties reasonably within the scope of the position’s responsibilities.