Director Planning, Training

Director Planning, Training & Exercising (Emergency Management) – Government of Nova Scotia Location: Dartmouth Type of Employment: Permanent Union Status: Exclusion – Non Union – NSPG Compensation Grade: EC 14 Salary Range: $4,550.68 – $5,688.35 bi‑weekly Closing Date: 24‑Nov‑25 (Applications accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time) Seniority Level: Director Employment Type: Full‑time Job Function: Business Development and Sales Industries: Government Administration About Us The Department of Emergency Management leads disaster and emergency planning, preparedness, response and recovery activities for the Province of Nova Scotia. The Department coordinates and cooperates with partners during critical incidents, supports municipal and regional events, administers the province’s 911 service, maintains critical communications infrastructure and supports operations of regional emergency management centres. The Department also ensures critical government services continue to function during and after critical events. About Our Opportunity As the Director of Planning, Training, and Exercising, you will guide the development of Nova Scotia’s emergency management training, exercising, and public education. This role shapes provincial readiness, strengthens emergency preparedness, response, and recovery capabilities, and promotes a modern, inclusive approach that connects people, technology, and innovation. Primary Accountabilities Lead the design, delivery, and evaluation of a province‑wide emergency management training and exercising system aligned with legislation, standards, and departmental priorities. Develop and implement innovative learning programs, certification frameworks, and public awareness strategies to strengthen emergency readiness across the province. Oversee the provincial training database to ensure accurate tracking of qualifications, certifications, and training delivery. Guide long‑term training plans, including interprovincial collaboration opportunities and an Atlantic regional training facility. Build and sustain partnerships across departments, municipalities, First Nations, NGOs, academic institutions, and emergency management professionals. Champion equity, accessibility, and cultural competence in all education and training initiatives. Design and execute provincial exercises and simulations, translating lessons learned into system‑wide improvement. Manage human and financial resources effectively, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and teamwork. Qualifications and Experience Degree in a related field (public safety, emergency management, education, or equivalent). Strong strategic and operational leadership background, understanding how training systems can transform readiness and response. Certification or education in adult education, instructional design, training development, or learning innovation is highly desirable. Experience developing and leading training, exercising, or education programs. Excellent organizational and planning skills, balancing structure and flexibility. Track record of innovative training delivery such as online or blended learning platforms. Exceptional communication and relationship‑building skills to foster collaboration across sectors. Strategic and tactical thinking, comfortable working autonomously. Preferred Additional Experience Experience in emergency services, public safety, or a comparable environment. Familiarity with the Incident Command System (ICS) and/or Emergency Management Act. Benefits The Government of Nova Scotia offers a wide range of benefits, including a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, health, dental, life insurance, general illness, short and long‑term disability, vacation, and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. Working Conditions The normal work week is 35 hours (7 hours/day). Regular travel is required. High‑pressure situations with shifting priorities are common, particularly during emergency response or training exercises. Work hours may extend beyond the standard schedule. In an emergency/disaster situation, you may be required to report to work 24/7/365 with little or no notice. Additional Information A valid driver’s license and the ability to travel regularly within Nova Scotia are required. What We Offer Career development resources and ongoing training. Engaging workplace culture with forward‑thinking policies and strategies. Countless career paths. Employment Equity Statement The Government of Nova Scotia welcomes applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Women in occupations or positions where they are under‑represented. If you belong to an under‑represented group, you are encouraged to self‑identify on your electronic application. Accommodation Statement We are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. Candidates may request accommodations. If you require an accommodation throughout the recruitment process, please contact competitions@novascotia.ca. Application Process Applications must be complete and contain all required information. Offer of employment is conditional upon satisfactory background checks and credential confirmation. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. For questions or concerns, contact Competitions@novascotia.ca. #J-18808-Ljbffr