About Us

The Department of Emergency Management (DEM) is responsible for leading disaster and emergency planning, preparedness, response and recovery activities on behalf of the Province of Nova Scotia.  The objective of the Department is to ensure that Nova Scotians are safe, prepared and resilient in the face of disasters and emergencies. The Department leads the coordination and co-operation of partners and resources during provincial level critical incidents, supports municipal and other partners in regional level and local events, administers the province’s 911 service, maintains critical communications infrastructure and supports operations of our regional emergency management centres.  The Department also works to ensure critical government services continue to function during and after critical events. 

The Planning and Preparedness Branch enhances preparedness, reduces vulnerabilities, and ensures a coordinated response to critical incidents and emergencies by:

• Standing up and deploying the Nova Scotia Guard
• Reviewing comprehensive emergency management programs by the province and municipalities and ensuring they are robust
• Conducting thorough risk assessments and advising on mitigation strategies 
• Administering the Disaster Financial Assistance program to ensure recovery takes place as quickly as possible
• Leading strategic policy, including the management of federal and regional agreements and management of legislation, regulations, policies, establishing standards and preparedness initiatives
• Supporting effective risk management and business continuity for the Province, municipalities, and critical infrastructure partners
• Managing the resiliency office

About Our Opportunity

Reporting to Director of Recovery Programs, the Disaster Financial Assistance Program Administrative Officer is responsible for supporting DEM Disaster Assistance Programs. This includes the development, updating, and execution of policies, programs, and procedures for the prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery phases of all emergencies affecting, or having the potential to affect the province.

Primary Accountabilities

With the increasing severity of natural disasters, there is an increasing need to support disaster recovery programs. As the Program Administrative Officer, you have a critical role in supporting these programs and require a commitment to delivering exceptional, client-focused service. Utilizing your strong coordination and communication skills, you will:

• Coordinate program recommendations with staff, stakeholders, and program users.
• Support and respond to client inquiries in a timely manner.
• Review, analyze, and report on data.
• Provide guidance and support to Director and Senior Officials in the department.
• Process transactions related to disaster assistance and claims.
• Coordinate the preparation of weekly disaster assistance claim statistics.

Additionally, you may assist with:

• Coordinating the division’s budget and monitoring forecast documents.
• Ordering and receiving goods.
• Processing invoices and financial transactions.
• Ensuring proper procurement procedures.
• Assisting with auditing processes.
• Supporting the development of new client service delivery mechanism

Qualifications and Experience

You have completed a Bachelor's degree and have at least one year of related experience. Experience in disaster assistance programs is desirable.

You are:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, SAP with the ability to verify and process financial information.
• Have excellent client service skills, with a proven ability to effectively assist with clients and connect them to resources.
• Able to work independently and under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable and capable of working effectively in stressful situations or emergencies, which may impact the safety and security of Nova Scotians.
• Experience working with external contractors and vendors.
• A team player capable of working under stressful conditions for extended periods.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

We recognize equivalent combinations of training, education, and experience, providing opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Equivalencies include:

•              1 year related diploma and 4 years of experience

•              2 years related diploma and 3 years of experience

•              5 years related experience without any education

•              A related master’s degree

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Working Conditions

• Normal work week is 35 hours/week, 7 hours/day
• May be required to work overtime during emergencies

Additional Information

Two (2) term positions are currently available with anticipated end dates of August 31, 2026.  The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer

• Career development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career
• Engaging workplace: our employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies
• Countless career paths