Climate Adaptation Specialist II: Emergency Management Coordinator in Bethel, Alaska at Association of Village Council Presidents

SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Climate Adaptation and Emergency Management Program Manager, the Community Adaptation Specialist 2: Emergency Management (EM) Coordinator is responsible for leading regional emergency management coordination, planning, and response efforts across AVCP region communities. This position provides advanced technical assistance to support large-scale emergency preparedness, response, and recovery in a vast and remote region.

The EM Coordinator supports the development of regional emergency management frameworks, strengthens Incident Command System (ICS) capacity, and enhances coordination between Tribal governments, regional partners, and state agencies. The position also contributes to climate adaptation initiatives through integration of emergency planning, community resilience strategies, and relocation or protection planning where necessary.

This role includes significant responsibility for emergency response coordination, training, and real-time incident support, including extended hours and deployment to regional coordination centers when needed. The EM Coordinator will work closely with Tribal communities to ensure culturally appropriate, community-driven approaches to emergency preparedness, response, and long-term adaptation.

SUMMARY OF PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES. Other duties may be assigned.

• Provide technical assistance to Tribal communities in developing, updating, and implementing emergency plans, including Small Community Emergency Response Plans (SCERPs), Hazard Mitigation Plans (HMPs), and Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs).
• Support the development and implementation of a regional emergency management framework, including coordination structures such as Regional Resource Coordination Committees (RRCC) and regional Comprehensive Emergency Management Plans (CEMP).
• Coordinate and support large-scale emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts across multiple communities.
• Facilitate coordination between Tribal governments and state/federal agencies during emergency incidents.
• Conduct outreach and maintain regular communication with communities to assess needs before, during, and after emergency events.
• Support communities in evaluating adaptation strategies, including protection, accommodation, relocation, managed retreat, and shelter-in-place options.
• Assist in organizing and delivering emergency management trainings, workshops, and exercises for Tribes, AVCP staff, and community members.
• Provide technical presentations and facilitate discussions on emergency planning and resilience strategies for audiences with varying levels of expertise.
• Conduct research and provide technical assistance on funding opportunities, policies, and best practices related to emergency management, climate adaptation, and rural resilience.
• Improve and adapt existing emergency planning frameworks to better reflect regional needs, capacities, and cultural considerations.
• Lead the development and maintenance of internal emergency management plans and protocols.
• Maintain accurate program documentation, including records, databases, planning documents, and outreach materials.
• Support project management efforts, including creating timelines, tracking milestones, and ensuring deliverables are met.
• Assist with grant reporting, compliance requirements, and budget tracking in coordination with relevant departments.
• Organize and coordinate events, including community check-ins, trainings, and regional meetings.
• Participate in local, regional, and statewide emergency management and climate adaptation meetings, trainings, and conferences.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong knowledge of emergency management systems, including the Incident Command System (ICS) and multi-jurisdictional coordination.
• Experience with emergency planning documents such as SCERPs, HMPs, and EOPs.
• Ability to coordinate complex projects across multiple communities and partners.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and facilitation.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to provide technical assistance and translate complex concepts into accessible information.
• Understanding of grant management, reporting requirements, and budget tracking.
• Knowledge of Tribal governance structures and culturally appropriate engagement practices.
• Ability to work effectively in high-stress and rapidly changing environments.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• At least three (3) years of education or experience in emergency management, climate adaptation, program coordination, or a related field.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field strongly preferred (emergency management, environmental science, public administration, community development, or related discipline).
• Experience working with Tribal governments, Indigenous communities, or Tribal organizations strongly preferred.
• Experience supporting emergency response or disaster coordination efforts preferred.
• Familiarity with climate change impacts and adaptation strategies in rural or Arctic environments preferred.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Strong knowledge of the Yukon-Kuskokwim region and familiarity with AVCP programs preferred.
• Ability to travel frequently throughout the region, including travel by small aircraft, boat, ATV, snowmachine, or ice road.
• Willingness to work extended and irregular hours during emergency response and recovery operations.
• Ability to deploy for extended periods (e.g., Anchorage-based coordination at State Emergency Operations Center).
• Valid Alaska Driver’s License and ability to qualify for AVCP Commercial Vehicle Insurance.
• Yup’ik speaker strongly preferred.