Emergency Management Specialist 2

State of Iowa

  • Johnston, IA Polk County, IA
  • $62,338-96,699 per year
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 day ago
Job DescriptionWho we are Seeking:The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) is seeking a highly motivated, detail oriented, and analytical team player to join its team. Candidates must have superb communication skills and the ability to understand technical and complex written material. Additionally, candidates must be able to interpret state and Federal code, regulation and policy and provide guidance to department leadership on disaster recovery matters. Candidates must be able to work independently and as part of a team. Must be able to work a minimum of 40 hours a week. Overtime maybe required during times of disaster. Travel may be required.Who We AreThe Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management's (HSEM) Mission Statement is Enhancing the quality of life for Iowans by preparing our State and building resilient communities. The person selected for this position will demonstrate actions and behaviors guided by the HSEMD's four core values:MISSION ORIENTED - We are resolute in our service to IowansINTEGRITY- We conduct ourselves with honesty and are transparent in our actionsDISTINGUISHED - We are leaders in our fieldONE TEAM - We collaborate, connect, and shareHSEM is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, consistent with applicable state and federal policies and regulations.Position SummaryThis position is responsible for coordinating hazard mitigation planning initiatives, managing federal and state grant programs, and providing technical assistance to state, local, and federal partners. The role encompasses planning leadership, interagency coordination, grant program administration, financial oversight, and support of emergency management operations to advance Iowa HSEM's mission.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesCoordination of Planning Initiatives
  • Participate in and coordinate meetings for multiple planning teams, including the State Hazard Mitigation Team, Flood Risk Management Team, and Drought Planning initiatives.
  • Lead updates to the Enhanced State Mitigation Plan and administer the local mitigation planning program.
  • Ensure alignment of planning efforts with state and federal requirements, promoting consistency and collaboration across programs.
Interagency Coordination
  • Facilitate collaboration among federal, state, local, and non-governmental partners.
  • Build and maintain relationships with partner agencies to leverage resources and expertise.
  • Adapt to varying program requirements and identify opportunities for programmatic integration and improvement.
Grant Project Management
  • Provide professional-level technical assistance to governmental and non-profit organizations in developing applications for federal and state grant programs authorized by the Robert T. Stafford Act and the National Flood Insurance Reform Act.
  • Support the delivery and management of Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management grant programs, with emphasis on FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) programs.
  • Assist partners in complying with the Code of Federal Regulations, federal guidance, and state program policies.
  • Guide applicants in mitigation planning, grant application development, scope of work preparation, project budgeting, benefit-cost analysis, and financial management systems.
  • Conduct state-level review of plans and project applications to assess eligibility and provide recommendations for approval.
Grant Performance Monitoring
  • Perform subrecipient monitoring and oversight of assigned projects to ensure progress toward program performance and financial objectives.
  • Manage activities throughout the grant lifecycle (typically 3-5 years), including disaster assessments, project performance monitoring, financial closeouts, and audits.
  • Serve as a geographic or functional team lead as assigned, assisting supervisors by distributing, reviewing, and balancing workloads; providing on-the-job training; and supporting performance evaluations and staff development.
  • Establish goals, develop work plans, and assess financial, staffing, and resource needs to ensure program success.
Agency Operations and Policy Implementation
  • Identify operational needs and develop recommendations to improve functional organization and workflow.
  • Coordinate activities with other agency programs to ensure consistency with agency business policies and priorities.
  • Provide input on human resource policy matters affecting the organization and ensure accountability for key staff actions.
Financial Review and Compliance
  • Assist program managers in reviewing pay requests, verifying supporting documentation, and ensuring compliance with grant management and financial systems.
  • Guide subrecipients in preparing financial documents required for reimbursement and program reporting.
  • Support the execution of subrecipient monitoring activities and grant closeouts in accordance with federal and state standards.
Emergency Management Technical Assistance
  • Prepare written correspondence and reports in response to inquiries regarding grant programs, utilizing Microsoft Office and other standard tools.
  • Serve in designated roles within the Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department (HSEMD) during emergencies or periods of increased operational demand.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by the Administrator, Chief of Staff, Bureau Chief, or Program Manager, particularly during disaster response and recovery operations.
This is a merit position with the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.Work Hours/Location:7:00 A.M.- 3:30 P.M. or7:30 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. or8:00 A.M. - 4:30 P.M.This position is required to be in the office on a regular basis. There is the potential for remote work after the first 6 months once on-boarding and training have been completed, however, this is not a full-time remote work position.Benefits: At the State of Iowa, we are committed to your well-being. As a valued team member, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy vacation with accruals that rollover on a yearly basis, sick leave with no limits on accrual and 9 paid holidays per year.
  • Great Benefits: Excellent Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Options.
  • Retirement Plan: IPERS Retirement package and an option for a deferred compensation plan.
  • Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care).
  • Life Insurance: Free Life Insurance.
  • Support: Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs.
To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit ourMinimum Qualification RequirementsApplicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:1) Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree any field, and experience equal to three years of full-time professional experience in grant program planning, analysis, or administration work; professional accounting; civil or construction engineering; or professional administrative work.2) All of the following (a and b): a. Three years of full-time professional experience in grant program planning, analysis, or administration work; professional accounting; civil or construction engineering; or professional administrative work; and b. A total of four years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in any field equals one year of full-time experience.3) All of the following (a, b, and c): a. Two years of full-time professional experience in grant program planning, analysis, or administration work; professional accounting; civil or construction engineering; or professional administrative work; and b. A total of four years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and c. Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's Degree in Business or Public Administration, Economic, Engineering, Financial, Social, Health, Agricultural studies, or closely related curriculum.4) Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes eighteen months of full-time work as an Emergency Management Specialist 1.For additional information, please click on thisAdditional Qualification RequirementsPositions require extended work hours and extensive travel.Why Choose the State of Iowa?At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:Competitive Compensation:Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly . Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.Health and Wellness:Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.Retirement Planning:We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. .Paid Time Off:Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.Professional Development:Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.Employee Assistance Program (EAP):We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.Diversity and Inclusion:Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.Join Us - Elevate Your Career:Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

State of Iowa