Emergency Management Coordinator

Merritt is a small, caring, resilient city located in the stunning Nicola Valley of BC. We are surrounded by a spectacular sprawling rugged landscape at the hub of the Coquihalla highway mountain pass. Living in Merritt, you'll find short commutes, big amenities and an abundance of outdoor and indoor recreation and leisure amenities for all ages and preferences.

Working at the City of Merritt, you'll join a team of caring coworkers and innovative roll-up-your-sleeves who are passionate about public service and determined to make a difference. Whether we're delivering essential services, running community recreation programs, or more, our team takes pride in helping Merritt to be an attractive, sustainable, healthy and safe small city. We work together to build a respectful and inclusive workplace that reflects our values and the community we serve

As a member of the Management/Leadership team, the Emergency Management Coordinator is responsible for planning, organizing, leading and directing the City of Merritt’s Emergency Management programs for the City of Merritt. The Emergency Management Coordinator’s primary function is to develop the plans that will protect and preserve the safety of Merritt and lead the Emergency Response System. They ensure that the City of Merritt has a strategic and coordinated response that aligns with the RCMP, TNRD, First Nations, province and other Emergency Management partners during local and provincial emergencies and natural disasters. In all plans and activities, they ensure the well-being of residents, the community and neighbouring communities, and employees are considered. The incumbent also evaluates plans for continuous improvement and quality.

The Emergency Management Coordinator administers the Emergency Management Program and Emergency Management Response System. The Coordinator plans and implements training so that employees are prepared and know the roles and duties required of them in an emergency. They engage the community to raise awareness of emergency preparedness and provide recommendations to Council. The Emergency Management Coordinator manages the Emergency Support Services (ESS) program and coordinates volunteers. They also build key relationships with emergency response agencies on behalf of the City of Merritt to facilitate inter-agency operations in emergencies.

In the event of a natural disaster due to extreme weather or other emergency, the Coordinator leads the Incident Command Center and Emergency Operations Center.

This position is ideal for a self-motivated leader who can build relationships and consider different perspectives, determine critical strategic issues and develop effective action plans that address them.

• Formal education in Emergency Management with a sound understanding of Emergency Management theory and practice in British Columbia, including the BC Emergency Management System (BCEMS).
• Post-secondary Fire Safety and First Responder courses, including but not limited to NPFA 1001, is preferred.
• Knowledge of local authority Emergency Management legislation, BC’s Emergency Program Act and Regulations and Fire Services / Fire Safety Acts, roles, responsibilities, obligations and their implications for local authorities, particularly municipalities.
• Knowledge of natural and technological hazards in the Thompson-Nicola Region, with particular attention to recent emergency event history in the Cariboo.
• Emergency Operations Training and/ or experience within an incident command system structure is an asset.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

For new hires and for those working in designated positions of trust, including those working directly with vulnerable persons, a satisfactory Police Information Check and clean driving record are required conditions of employment.

We offer a total rewards package with competitive salaries ($75,000 - $81,000) yr comprehensive extended health care benefits, group insurances, opportunities for career growth and development, well-being benefits, an employee assistance program, exclusive perks, on-site parking and a supportive, respectful work environment.

This position will be posted until filled. Please note that we are actively recruiting for this position. For full consideration, apply today!

The City of Merritt is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to building a respectful and inclusive workplace that reflects the community we serve.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.