HSEEP Subject Matter Experts (SME) and Exercise Support Team (EST)

HSEEP Subject Matter Experts (SME) and Exercise Support Team (EST)

1099 - Consultant

Various locations within the Commonwealth of Virginia

Summary:

Applied Training Solutions (ATS) is seeking HSEEP Subject Matter Experts (SME) and Exercise Support Team (EST) members to support Discussion Based and Operations Based exercises within the Commonwealth of Virginia. Open positions include:

• Lead/Co-Facilitator
• Table Facilitator
• Lead/Senior Controller
• Controller
• Lead Evaluator
• Evaluator
• Simcell Lead Controller
• Simulator
• Table Scribe
• Registration Table Staff

Job Duties:

• Design, development, conduct, evaluation, corrective action, and improvement planning of a local, multi-jurisdictional, agency or multi-agency exercises based on the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) principles and methodology.
• Coordinate with stakeholders at various levels (federal, state, local, and private sector) to ensure effective planning and execution of exercises.
• Identify exercise objectives and design realistic scenarios that test the capabilities needed to respond to hazards and threats.
• Develop exercise documentation such as Situation Manuals (SITMANs), Master Scenario Events Lists (MSELs), and Exercise Evaluation Guides (EEGs).
• Ensure exercises align with relevant plans, policies, procedures, and training programs, such as Continuity of Operations (COOP) and Public Health Preparedness (PHEP).
• Facilitate exercise planning meetings and debriefs.
• Observe and record player performance during exercises.
• Analyze data to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Develop After-Action Reports (AARs) with actionable findings and recommendations; and track corrective actions through an Improvement Plan (IP).
• Provide expert technical guidance and consult on emergency management and exercise best practices.
• Serve as a liaison between agencies and organizations to promote collaboration and coordination.
• Stay up-to-date on national security trends and technologies to ensure exercise relevance and effectiveness.

Basic Qualifications:

• In addition to HSEEP-trained, a deep understanding of the HSEEP methodology and its application in exercise planning and execution.
• Strong background in emergency management, exercise design, and program evaluation.
• Experience in conducting needs assessments, gap analyses, and improvement plan tracking.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and facilitation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing projects and meeting deadlines.
• Proficiency in project management tools and software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Smartsheet).
• Familiarity with relevant regulations and guidelines (e.g., CDC's PHEP capabilities, ASPR guidelines, FEMA mission areas).
• Relevant certifications such as FEMA's HSEEP training courses (e.g., L/K-0146, K0051, E/L/K0139, E/L0050, E/L0131)
• Possess strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills to address complex challenges during exercise design and evaluation.
• Able to adapt to changing priorities and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including senior management and frontline personnel.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) or Certified Emergency Manager (CEM).
• Bachelor's degree in Emergency Management, Homeland Security, or a related field (Master's preferred).
• Emergency Management operations and/or exercise experience within the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Live within or near the Commonwealth of Virginia

US Citizenship required for this Position: Yes

Performance Location: Various locations within the Commonwealth of Virginia