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  • Administrative Assistant - Department of Emergency Management

    Chehalis, Washington United States Lewis County, WA Full Time $52,792.32 - $70,992.00 Annually May 01, 2026
    Lewis County, WA Employer:

    Lewis County, WA

    Build Your Career in Public Service at Lewis County At Lewis County, we don’t just serve the community—we’re part of it. As a local government organization, our mission is to preserve and enhance the quality of life for our residents, and we do that by empowering employees who are community-focused, innovative, and committed to public service. Located between Seattle and Portland, Lewis County offers the convenience of urban access with the lifestyle benefits of the Pacific Northwest. But what sets us apart is our workplace culture: rooted in collaboration, accountability, and resilience, our team works across departments to solve problems, support one another, and create lasting impact. As an employer, Lewis County values transparency, responsiveness, and continuous improvement. Whether you’re maintaining critical infrastructure, supporting community development, advancing public health, or working in public safety, your role directly contributes to a stronger, more vibrant county. We are growing, evolving, and looking for talented individuals who want to make a difference—people who see challenges as opportunities and who are inspired by the chance to shape the future of local government. Join us at Lewis County—where public service is purpose-driven, people-focused, and full of possibility.  

    Job Description

    ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

    Under general supervision, coordinates and performs a variety of skilled administrative functions; provides clerical support to assigned management and/or other departmental personnel; and performs other related duties as assigned. Provides staff support during emergency activations, incidents, training, and exercises within the Emergency Operations Center and other operational environments.

    The following duties are the fundamental, crucial job duties performed by this position. This is not a comprehensive list of all tasks that may be assigned. Incumbent may be required to perform other duties as assigned and appropriate for the position.
    • Answers, screens, and directs incoming calls; responds to public inquiries and requests for information; records, logs, and files public disclosure requests.
    • Maintains departmental calendars; schedules and coordinates meetings, appointments, luncheons, award ceremonies, social events, and/or other types of functions; organizes and books travel arrangements.
    • Prepares and/or drafts correspondence, news releases, statements, resolutions, contracts, reports, forms, electronic newsletters, social media postings, rosters, and/or other departmental documentation.
    • Coordinate and oversee emergency management volunteers in support of preparedness, response, recovery, and community resilience efforts.
    • Attends and participates in administrative briefings and/or other assigned meetings; records and transcribes meeting minutes.
    • Updates and maintains departmental records, personnel files, policy manuals, and filing systems; purges archived records in accordance with established retention guidelines.
    • Performs a variety of accounts payable and receivable functions; prepares payroll for area of assignment.
    • Participates in administering assigned departmental grants and/or contracts; compiles data and submits related reports in accordance with reporting requirements.
    • Monitors and maintains office supply inventories.
    • Coordinates and conducts special projects as assigned.
    • Maintains and updates emergency contact information with partnering agencies and jurisdictions.
    • Assists in maintaining the Emergency Operations Center accessibility and availability for disaster readiness.


    WORKING ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS

    Work is primarily performed in an office setting with standard equipment such as computers, phones, and filing systems. The role involves prolonged periods of sitting, frequent use of computers and communication devices, and occasional lifting of files or supplies up to 25 pounds. During emergency activations or large-scale events, the Administrative Assistant may be required to work extended or irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, in a fast-paced and high-stress environment where priorities can shift rapidly. Will be required to drive to emergency sites, emergency exercises and trainings.

    REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

    • Associate’s degree in public administration, Emergency Management, Business Administration, or a related field; OR equivalent combination of education and administrative/office experience.
    • Must possess and maintain a valid Washington State Driver’s License.
    • Certification of the following FEMA Independent Study Courses:
      • IS-100: Introduction to Incident Command System
      • IS-700: National Incident Management System (NIMS)
    Successful certification of the following FEMA Independent Study Courses will be required within 120 days of hire:
    • IS-200: Basic Incident Command
    • IS-800: National Response Framework (NRF)
    • IS-230: Fundamentals of Emergency Management
    • IS-2200: Basic Emergency Operations Center Functions
    PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
    Bachelor’s degree in public administration, Emergency Management, Business Administration, or a related field.

    COMPETENCIES (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Behaviors)

    Knowledge of:
    • Departmental operations relative to area of assignment.
    • General office practices and equipment.
    • Standard computer software applications.
    • Basic accounting principles.
    • Records management principles and standards.
    Skills in:
    • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
    • Comfortable using databases, spreadsheets, and online collaboration tools.
    • Experience with social media platforms or website content management is helpful.
    • Coordinating and conducting a variety of skilled administrative support functions.
    • Preparing and maintaining correspondence, reports, and other types of documentation.
    • Scheduling and organizing meetings, appointments, social functions, and other departmental events.
    • Assisting in administering grants/contracts and performing general accounting duties.
    • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with other staff, County departments, outside agencies, and the general public.
    • Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
    Ability to:
    • Learn and follow County policies and procedures.
    • Knowledge of basic office procedures and records management.
    • Ability to learn emergency management processes, terminology, and protocols.
    • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
    • Ability to prioritize tasks and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
    • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
    • Ability to maintain confidentiality with sensitive information.
    Behaviors:
    • Regular, reliable attendance.
    • Flexible and able to adapt to changing priorities, especially during incidents.
    • Calm under pressure with good problem-solving skills.
    • Team-oriented, reliable, and professional demeanor.


    Lewis County is an equal opportunity employer that provides access, free from discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, pregnancy, disability, genetic information or any other basis protected by law in employment or provisions of services.

    Health Insurance: We offer comprehensive medical coverage-including vision-along with dental and basic life insurance for employees and their families. Multiple medical plan options are available, so you can choose the coverage that best fits your needs.

    Retirement Plans: Secure your future with enrollment in one of Washington State's Department of Retirement Systems programs: PERS, PSERS, or LEOFF. Both you and the County contribute to your retirement, ensuring long-term financial stability.

    Paid Leave: Full-time regular employees earn paid vacation in addition to paid holidays.

    Longevity: We recognize and reward your dedication with additional monthly compensation for continuous service milestones.

    Deferred Compensation: Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

    Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Employees can take advantage of Section 125 flexible spending accounts for out-of-pocket health care and daycare expenses with pre-tax dollars.

    Public Service Loan Forgiveness: If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

    Please visit our Employee Benefits webpage for details: 2026 Benefits

    Accommodations for All Applicants: If you need accommodations during the selection process, we’re here to help! Contact our Human Resources Department at (360) 740-2737 or HR@lewiscountywa.gov .

    Closing Date/Time: 5/17/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

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How Emergency Management Jobs Help Save Lives: A Guide for Job Seekers

How Emergency Management Jobs Help Save Lives: A Guide for Job Seekers
 

What Are Emergency Management Jobs in Government Agencies?

Emergency management careers in government agencies are crucial roles dedicated to protecting communities and coordinating responses to disasters and crises at local, state, and federal levels. Read on to find out if a job in this field is the right job for you.

These positions focus on safeguarding public safety and minimizing the impact of emergencies through careful planning, efficient response, and effective recovery efforts.
Government emergency management jobs typically exist within:
  1. Local government: City or county emergency management offices
  2. State government: State emergency management agencies
  3. Federal government: Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other federal departments
Key responsibilities of government emergency management professionals include:
  1. Developing and maintaining emergency operations plans
  2. Coordinating with various government departments and agencies
  3. Managing emergency operations centers during crises
  4. Allocating resources and personnel during emergencies
  5. Conducting risk assessments and hazard analyses
  6. Implementing public education and awareness programs
  7. Overseeing disaster recovery and mitigation efforts
  8. Ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations
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Imagine being the person who designs an early warning system that saves thousands of lives during a tornado, or the one who coordinates a multi-agency response to a major flood. These are real examples of the critical work government emergency managers do. Did you know that government emergency management isn't just about responding to disasters? A significant part of the job involves prevention, preparedness, and helping communities become more resilient. Your work could stop a crisis before it even begins.

Government emergency managers must stay updated on the latest technologies and best practices. From using advanced weather modeling to predict severe storms to leveraging social media for public communication during crises, these professionals are at the forefront of applying innovative tools to protect citizens.

As climate change increases the frequency and severity of natural disasters, and as our society faces new challenges like cybersecurity threats, the role of government emergency management professionals becomes ever more vital.
 

The Impact of Emergency Management on Communities

Government emergency management professionals play a pivotal role in safeguarding lives, protecting property, and ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of disasters and crises. Their work touches every aspect of community life, often in ways that citizens may not immediately recognize. Emergency managers are at the forefront of protecting public safety. They develop early warning systems for natural disasters, create and implement evacuation plans, coordinate search and rescue operations, and ensure the continuity of essential services during crises.

Imagine being the person whose carefully crafted evacuation plan saves an entire town from a devastating wildfire. That's the kind of impact you could have in an emergency management role.
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But emergency management goes beyond immediate response. These professionals work to make communities more resilient by conducting risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities, implementing mitigation strategies to reduce potential damages, educating the public on preparedness measures, and developing long-term recovery plans.

The work of emergency managers also helps safeguard local economies by minimizing disruptions to businesses during disasters, facilitating rapid recovery efforts to get communities back on their feet, and managing disaster relief funds and resources effectively. Emergency managers serve as the crucial link between various government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. This coordination ensures a unified and efficient response to emergencies, maximizes the use of available resources, and reduces duplication of efforts and potential conflicts.

Effective emergency management builds public trust in government institutions by demonstrating preparedness and competence during crises, providing clear, timely, and accurate information to the public, and showing visible leadership during challenging times.

In times of crisis, communities look to their leaders for guidance and support. As an emergency manager, you could be that beacon of hope and stability when it's needed most.

Emergency management influences long-term community planning and development by advocating for resilient infrastructure, informing land-use decisions to reduce vulnerability to hazards, and promoting sustainable development practices. Emergency managers also play a crucial role in ensuring that all community members, especially vulnerable populations, are protected and supported during crises. They develop inclusive emergency plans, ensure equitable distribution of resources and assistance, and address the unique needs of diverse community groups.

Emergency management isn't just about responding to disasters – it's about creating stronger, more equitable communities. Your work could help ensure that no one is left behind when disaster strikes.

The impact of emergency management on communities is profound and far-reaching. From saving lives in immediate crises to shaping the long-term resilience and development of communities, emergency managers are instrumental in creating safer, stronger, and more prepared societies. As you consider a career in emergency management, remember that your work could be the difference between chaos and order, between devastation and swift recovery. Are you ready to take on this critical role and make a lasting impact on your community?

 

Skills Required for Success in Emergency Management

Success in government emergency management roles requires a unique blend of skills that combine leadership, analytical thinking, and interpersonal abilities. These professionals must be prepared to handle high-pressure situations while maintaining a clear head and a steady hand.

Ever wondered what it takes to be the calm in the storm, the voice of reason in chaos? Emergency management demands a special set of skills – let's explore if you have what it takes to excel in this critical field.

Leadership and Decision-Making

Emergency managers must be able to take charge in crisis situations, making quick, informed decisions that can have life-or-death consequences. They need to inspire confidence in their team and the public, even under extreme pressure. This requires not just the ability to lead, but also the courage to make tough calls when lives are on the line.

Communication

Clear, effective communication is paramount in emergency management. These professionals must be adept at conveying critical information to diverse audiences, from government officials and first responders to the general public. They should be skilled in both verbal and written communication and be able to translate complex technical information into easily understandable terms.

Analytical Thinking and Problem-Solving

Emergency situations rarely follow a script. Successful emergency managers must be able to analyze complex situations quickly, identifying key issues and developing innovative solutions on the fly. It also entails factoring in people's civil rights when they face emergencies. This requires a keen analytical mind and the ability to think outside the box when conventional approaches fall short.

Stress Management and Emotional Intelligence

Working in emergency management means dealing with high-stress situations regularly. The ability to remain calm under pressure, manage one's own emotions, and respond empathetically to the stress and trauma of others is crucial. Emotional intelligence helps in navigating the human aspects of disaster response and recovery.

Collaboration and Teamwork

Emergency management is inherently a team effort, involving coordination across multiple agencies and organizations. The ability to work effectively in a team, foster cooperation, and build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders is essential.

Adaptability and Flexibility

In the ever-changing landscape of emergency management, adaptability is key. Professionals in this field must be able to pivot quickly as situations evolve, adjusting plans and strategies in real-time. They should be comfortable with ambiguity and able to function effectively in unpredictable environments.

Technical Proficiency

While not all emergency management roles require deep technical expertise, a basic understanding of relevant technologies is important. This includes familiarity with emergency management software, GIS mapping tools, communication systems, and data analysis platforms.

Cultural Competence and Empathy

Communities are diverse, and emergencies affect different groups in various ways. Successful emergency managers must be culturally sensitive, able to understand and respect diverse perspectives, and ensure that emergency plans and responses are inclusive and equitable.

Project Management

Many aspects of emergency management involve overseeing complex, multi-faceted projects. Skills in planning, organizing, and managing resources are crucial for success in roles ranging from preparedness initiatives to recovery efforts.

Continuous Learning

The field of emergency management is constantly evolving, with new threats emerging and best practices developing. A commitment to ongoing learning and professional development is essential to stay current and effective in this dynamic field.

While some of these skills can be developed through training and experience, others – like the ability to remain calm under pressure or to think creatively in crisis situations – are often innate qualities. As you consider a career in emergency management, reflect on your own strengths and areas for growth. Do you have the foundation to become a skilled emergency manager? With the right combination of natural abilities, education, and experience, you could play a crucial role in safeguarding your community and saving lives.

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Education and Training for Emergency Management Roles

Embarking on a career in government emergency management requires a solid foundation of education and ongoing training. The field demands a unique combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, with opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.

Formal Education:

While some entry-level positions may only require a high school diploma, many emergency management roles prefer or require a bachelor's degree. Relevant fields of study include:

  • Emergency Management
  • Public Administration
  • Homeland Security
  • Public Safety
  • Criminal Justice
  • Environmental Science

For those aiming for leadership positions or specializations, a master's degree can be highly beneficial. Advanced degrees in Emergency Management, Public Administration, or related fields can provide deeper insights into policy-making, strategic planning, and advanced crisis management techniques.

Certifications:

Professional certifications can significantly enhance your credibility and career prospects in emergency management. Some key certifications include:

  • Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) from the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM)
  • Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) for those early in their careers
  • Various FEMA certifications through their Emergency Management Institute

These certifications often require a combination of education, experience, and passing an exam, demonstrating your commitment to the field and your expertise.

Practical Training:

Hands-on experience is crucial in emergency management. Many educational programs incorporate practical elements such as:

  • Internships with local emergency management agencies
  • Participation in disaster simulations and exercises
  • Volunteer work or internship opportunities with organizations like the Red Cross or local Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT)

Ongoing Professional Development:

Emergency management is a dynamic field, requiring professionals to stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices. Ongoing training opportunities include:

  • Workshops and seminars offered by professional organizations
  • FEMA's Emergency Management Institute courses (many available online)
  • State-specific training programs
  • Conferences and networking events in the emergency management community

Specialized Skills Training:

Depending on your specific role or career goals, you might pursue additional training in areas such as:

  • Incident Command System (ICS)
  • National Incident Management System (NIMS)
  • Crisis communication and public information
  • Hazardous materials management
  • Cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection

Government-Specific Training:

For those pursuing careers in government emergency management, familiarity with government operations and policies is crucial. This might involve:

  • Training on local, state, or federal government procedures
  • Understanding of relevant laws and regulations
  • Courses on interagency cooperation and coordination

Military Experience:

Many successful emergency managers come from military backgrounds. The leadership, discipline, and crisis management skills developed in the military can translate well to emergency management roles.

As you consider your educational path in emergency management, remember that the field values a combination of formal education, practical experience, and ongoing professional development. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to advance your career, there are numerous opportunities to enhance your knowledge and skills.

 

The Future of Emergency Management

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As we look to the horizon, the field of emergency management is poised for significant evolution, driven by technological advancements, changing global dynamics, and shifting societal needs. The future of this vital profession promises both exciting opportunities and formidable challenges for those ready to step into the role of community guardians.

Emergency management is calling for innovative minds like yours - just check out the new jobs posted below and fine-tune your resume.

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