EMA Flood Technician

The EMA Flood Technician is responsible for the installation, operation, and maintenance of weather and flood monitoring equipment used to collect meteorological data across Sevier County. This position applies a working knowledge of meteorological principles to support the interpretation of atmospheric data, monitor precipitation trends, and identify weather patterns that contribute to flood risk. Areas of responsibility include running computer models to forecast potential weather-related events and monitoring sensors throughout our region.

This position works in coordination with the National Weather Service and internal emergency management staff to support the timely relay of flood-related data and observed conditions to local entities and first responders. This position operates independently in the field to inspect, service, and maintain radiotelemetry and monitoring equipment used to measure rainfall, water levels, and other meteorological parameters. Job performance is evaluated by the Assistant Director of Emergency Management based on reliability of equipment maintenance, accuracy and timeliness of data reporting, adherence to established procedures, and effective support of flood monitoring and warning operations.

• Develops hydrologic and hydraulic models using Army Corps RTS Modeling Software or other applications for flood forecasting purposes; assists with flood mitigation planning; identifies and develops flood mitigation projects.
• Analyzes historic, real-time, and forecasted hydrologic/metrological data from various points and sources.
• Performs regular calibration and testing of forecast model and makes appropriate modifications to improve accuracy.
• Conducts field visits to support model development and validation of forecast results.
• Develops an understanding of available weather forecast models to support forecast judgement and situational awareness.
• Researches, documents, and implements forecasting techniques, models, and processes to improve system capabilities.
• Produces timely and accurate flood forecasts during heavy rainfall and flooding events.
• Effectively communicates information on current and forecasted watershed conditions internally and with external partners.
• Evaluates locations vulnerable to flooding and documents the impacts of flooding.
• Identifies locations for additional field data collection sites to enhance forecasting capabilities.
• Participates in flood damage assessments and high-water mark data collection following flooding events.
• Produces reports, summaries, and exhibits of forecasted processes, model calibration, and post event summaries.
• Installs and maintains stream gauge sensors, weather stations, and other necessary equipment.
• Assists with the activities with the Sevier County Government / EMA Incident Management Team (IMT) and Emergency Management Agency (EMA) as required.
• Maintains FCC licensure for radio systems
• Performs other incidental and related duties as required and assigned.

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED) or equivalent experience and training
• Successful completion of or ability to complete within one year the following courses:
  • FEMA NIMS: IS 700, IS 800, ICS 200, ICS 300, ICS 400
• Successful completion of or ability to complete within a reasonable timeframe the minimum basic requirements for designation as an Emergency Manager under TEMA.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a valid Tennessee driver’s license and to be insured at standard vehicle liability rates.
• Ability to pass a physical and drug screen administered by a licensed physician.

• Associate’s degree in emergency management, public administration, public safety, meteorology/atmospheric science, or other related field from a two-year college or technical school supplemented with relevant experience in weather monitoring, data collection, and emergency management operations or a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with emphasis in hydrology/hydraulics, water resources, meteorology/atmospheric science or a related field from a four-year college or university or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered
• Considerable experience with the installation, operation, and maintenance of weather stations, road weather information systems, and river stage monitoring stations.
• Experience with data communications using radio ALERT2 TDMA format, GOES satellite systems, and network-based communication protocols.
• Experience in data logger programming and sensor integration, including analog 0–20mA, serial RS232, RS485, and SDI-12 communication protocols.

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

• Technically proficient with hydrologic and hydraulic processes including open channels, detention, flood mitigation, flood control, and flood forecasting.
• Extensive knowledge of website-server maintenance, radio and satellite communications protocols, Sevier County and local municipality waterways,…