Operational Planning Manager

State of Indiana•Indianapolis, IN

15h•Onsite

About The Position

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) leads Indiana's emergency planning and operations, first responder training, and fire and building safety. The Indiana State Fire Marshal leads the Division of Fire and Building Safety (within IDHS), which oversees the enforcement of building codes and includes a fire investigations unit. The agency certifies and trains thousands of first responders and also hosts state-level exercises each year. IDHS also supports the state Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which leads response and coordination efforts for large-magnitude incidents. The Operational Planning Manager develops, maintains, and improves preparedness plans for natural, man‑made, and technological disasters, with a primary focus on CBRNE incidents. The role involves coordinating planning efforts with internal and external partners, supporting SEOC operations during activations and exercises, and applying advanced research and analytical skills to create evidence‑based solutions. Strong writing, communication, and organizational abilities are essential for producing clear, high‑quality planning products. This position reports directly to the State Planning Director.

Requirements

Basic knowledge of planning techniques and procedures.
Basic knowledge of urban planning, transportation planning and state and local economic and industrial development.
Basic knowledge of emergency disaster, emergency cause and effect and procedures and methodology to minimize adverse effects.
Ability to use the techniques of fact-finding and analysis to interpret statistical information and trends concerning the physical, social, and economic aspects of population centers.
Ability to explain the programs and secure cooperation between local, state, and federal government and private executives.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing and through structured media.
Ability to develop feasible techniques and methods to achieve plan solutions.
Ability to comprehend and interpret federal and state laws, guidelines, and regulations relative to disaster planning and operations.
Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

A degree is not required.

Responsibilities

Coordinate work of lower-level workers and assists in complex or unusual situations.
Develop comprehensive emergency tactical and operational plans, statewide analyses, and evaluations.
Coordinate with local, state, and federal partners to ensure consistency, feasibility, flexibility, and interoperability of all operational or tactical plans.
Coordinate with the timetable and execution of tabletop, functional and full-scale exercises for the emergency plans.
Provide guidance to political sub-divisions of the state to enable each jurisdiction to develop area plans.
Head planning teams to meet these requirements.
Coordinate, promote and manage district level training and exercise training programs.
Assist local, state, and federal partners in developing and conducting training exercises at the state and regional level.
Prepare short- and long-range training plans for state and local responders.
Required travel to scheduled exercise sites to act as facilitator, controller, or evaluator.

Benefits

Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to: 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
Education Reimbursement Program
Group life insurance
Referral Bonus program
Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
Free Parking for most positions
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