Recovery Planner; Program Planner

Job Description

Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) is seeking an emergency management professional to lead statewide disaster recovery planning and coordinate interagency recovery efforts. This position supports key planning initiatives, assists community recovery groups, and serves as a liaison to emergency management partners across the state. The role also participates in emergency operations and exercises as needed and performs additional duties assigned by Department leadership.

The Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s 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 Iowans
• INTEGRITY – We conduct ourselves with honesty and are transparent in our actions
• DISTINGUISHED – We are leaders in our field
• ONE TEAM – We collaborate, connect, and share

We seek a professional with demonstrated experience in disaster recovery planning, emergency management coordination, and multi‑agency collaboration. The ideal candidate will possess strong planning, communication, and stakeholder‑engagement skills, along with the ability to support statewide recovery efforts and ensure compliance with applicable standards and laws. This role requires adaptability, professionalism, and the ability to represent the Department effectively while supporting both steady‑state and disaster operations.

Desired knowledge, skills, and abilities include:

• Comprehensive knowledge of disaster recovery frameworks, including the National Disaster Recovery Framework, Recovery Support Functions, and state‑level recovery planning processes
• Thorough understanding of emergency management principles, including mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery, with emphasis on long‑term recovery operations
• Familiarity with COOP, COG, and emergency response planning standards, including FEMA’s CPG 101 and related guidance
• Knowledge of community recovery structures, including Long‑Term Recovery Committees, Community Organizations Active in Disaster, and Voluntary Agency Liaison coordination practices
• Advanced planning and project management skills, including the ability to lead complex, multi‑agency planning initiatives and produce high‑quality emergency plans
• Proficiency in providing technical assistance, particularly in recovery planning, RSF coordination, and community recovery group development
• Strong relationship‑building skills, especially with local emergency managers, voluntary agencies, and state/federal partners
• Proficiency in developing, reviewing, and evaluating emergency plans to ensure compliance with standards and legal requirements
• Ability to serve as the state’s subject‑matter expert for the State Recovery Plan and lead interagency recovery planning efforts
• Ability to represent the Department professionally at district meetings, interagency work groups, and public‑facing engagements
• Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities, and adapt to rapidly changing conditions during emergencies
• Ability to collaborate across agencies and disciplines, fostering cooperative relationships and unified planning efforts

You will be an integral member of the HSEM team by providing subject‑matter expertise and detailed planning in support of the department’s mission by:

• Serve as the Department’s lead and subject‑matter expert for the State Recovery Plan
• Oversee and coordinate State‑level interagency planning activities related to the State Recovery Plan
• Lead the standup and coordination of State Recovery Task Force(s) in support of recovery operations
• Provide planning technical assistance to RSF activities
• Advise the State Coordinating Officer for Disaster Assistance and the Preparedness Bureau Chief on recovery planning and implementation

• Support development and maintenance of key Department planning initiatives, including:
  • COOP / COG Plans
  • Capitol Complex Plan
  • Emerg…