I’d like to point out the major items they lead with in different aspects of the job announcement:
- Champion racial equity. Actively seeks to eliminate race and income disparities in emergency management planning and response. Recognizes that communities of color are more vulnerable than
others across the range of events before and after a disaster. - Respect people’s lived experience and reflect a deep understanding of race, social justice, and equity in your interactions and work.
- A successful applicant will have a career that reflects a commitment to creating fair and equitable outcomes. Their work must be centered by a demonstrated commitment to emergency preparedness, emergency operations, public safety and community resiliency. Their work must be centered in racial, social, and economic justice and demonstrate strong planning ability and understanding of emergency management programs, practices and policies.
I personally believe that, in addition to all of the above criteria, to be an effective planner requires someone who comes from a minority background. The problem is that we have not cultivated a cadre of minority emergency managers who have the depth of experience to compete for jobs like the one described. Seattle can expect to get upwards of 300 applications for the position. And, do look at the cost of housing and be sitting down when you look at the potential salary and what it costs to rent. It is unlikely you will be buying anything — in Seattle proper at least.
If it was me and I was the decision maker, I’d be looking for “an up-and-comer” who has all the right skills and education with some experience that can be developed in this position. I’d also use the probationary period to make sure I made the right choice ... just saying.
