Preparedness Section Manager; WMS Band 3

Preparedness Section Manager

Washington Management Service - Band 3 | Emergency Management Division | Camp Murray, WA

Lead Statewide Preparedness and shape the future of emergency management in Washington. This recruitment has been re‑opened and will remain open until filled. Applicants that previously applied do not need to reapply. Application screening will begin the week of January 5, 2026.

The Washington Emergency Management Division (EMD) is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and forward‑thinking Preparedness Section Manager to guide the programs that form the backbone to Washington’s readiness posture. This is a rare opportunity for an experienced emergency manager to elevate their career by influencing preparedness policy, capability, and coordination across every level of government and community in the state.

If you thrive on building partnerships, strengthening systems, and leading talented professionals – while improving resilience of 7.8 million residents – this position offers unmatched scope and impact.

About the Washington Military Department

Protecting people is our passion. At the Washington Military Department, we combine our unique talents to create safer communities and ensure our neighbours and loved ones can recover from whatever emergency might arise. Our agency unites civilian employees with members of the Washington National Guard, creating a team that is deeply committed to public service. We go home at night knowing that our day‑to‑day work supports activities that truly make a difference.

Whether that’s partnering with our communities to prepare for a disaster, leading an emergency response, hiring top‑notch talent or supporting at‑risk kids at our Washington Youth Challenge Academy – the Washington Military Department seeks to safeguard our way of life and those that call Washington home.

To learn more about the Washington Military Department, please visit:(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..gov

In addition to job fulfillment, the Washington Military Department offers an excellent benefits package which includes exceptional health care coverage, a retirement savings plan and job training opportunities.

As the Preparedness Section Manager, you will oversee and empower teams working in Planning, Local Emergency Planning Committee Support, Training, Exercises, Radiological Preparedness, and Continuity. These programs are central to Washington’s statewide readiness, supporting:

• All state agencies
• 29 federally recognized tribal nations
• 39 counties and countless local jurisdictions
• Nine Homeland Security Regions
• The Seattle Urban Area
• Non‑governmental partners and the private sector

Your leadership directly strengthens Washington’s ability to prepare for, withstand, respond to, and recover from disasters – from everyday incidents to catastrophic events.

This is a civilian position (no military affiliation required), working within one of the most respected emergency management organizations in the country.

• Guide a high‑performing section of 20 professionals, including five direct‑report supervisors.
• Shape statewide preparedness priorities and ensure resources, staffing, and strategy align with Washington’s evolving risk landscape.
• Mentor and develop staff while fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

• Oversee statewide planning, training, exercises, and radiological preparedness programs.
• Strengthen coordination among federal, state, Tribal, and local partners.
• Ensure seamless integration across jurisdictions and alignment with federal requirements.

• Serve as a Deputy State Coordinating Officer or Emergency Operations Center Supervisor during statewide emergencies – helping guide decisions with real‑world, statewide impacts.

A bachelor's degree and five years of lead, supervisory, and/or management experience.

Professional level experience in emergency management, financial management (grants, contracting, claims management, budgeting), training/education, public information/affairs, program/project management, environmental…