Nova Scotia Guard Technical Support Lead (Program Admin Officer 4)

About Us

The Department of Emergency Management 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, 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. 

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

As the Technical Support Lead, you will oversee the development and implementation of web-based tools that support the training, management, and communication needs of the Nova Scotia Guard’s volunteer members. This role is at the forefront of integrating and enhancing software solutions that improve communication, coordination, and real-time decision-making during emergencies and community events.

You’ll work closely with internal teams and stakeholders to identify and support IT programs that enhance operational efficiency, scalability, and responsiveness. Beyond the Nova Scotia Guard, you will also help manage evolving IT needs within the Department of Emergency Management, ensuring alignment with departmental and government priorities.

Primary Accountabilities

As the Nova Scotia Technical Support Lead, you are responsible for the program that supports emergency response coordination and volunteer engagement. Your responsibilities will include:

• Managing and delivering data management solutions and reports for the volunteer tools and database, ensuring accessibility for departmental and partner organizations.
• Identifying and supporting IT programs that enhance the planning and deployment of volunteers before, during, and after emergency events.
• Ensuring seamless integration of Nova Scotia Guard data with other department systems, optimizing real-time decision-making and follow-up actions.
• Serving as a consultant on the development of digital and online training programs, reviewing and evaluating proposals requiring departmental support.
• Monitoring and maintaining portal content, resources, and training materials while ensuring effective communication with volunteers through technology.
• Assessing and recommending improvements to existing systems and processes, collaborating on change management strategies with senior colleagues and project teams.
• Supporting program budgeting by analyzing expenditures, identifying resource needs, and developing strategies to align with financial and operational goals.
• Managing relationships with volunteers, service providers, and internal and external partners to ensure successful program delivery within an established service management plan.

Qualifications and Experience

You have completed a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related discipline with at least six (6) years of related experience with database management, or emergency response coordination.

You demonstrate:

• Experience working with databases, registration portals, or other IT systems
• Strong understanding of system integration, ability to assess IT needs, recommend improvements, and implement solutions that support emergency response operations.
• Strong analytical skills, with experience compiling reports and supporting data-driven decision-making.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills to engage with internal teams, volunteers, and external stakeholders.

While not required, it is considered an asset if you:

• Experience working with or managing volunteers, with an understanding of the unique challenges related to engagement, commitment, and coordination.
• Familiarity with emergency management systems and processes.
• Experience supporting or developing digital training tools and online platforms.

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:

• A related Master’s degree and four (4) years of related experience
• A related Diploma and eight (8) years of experience
• Ten (10) years of related experience

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

This role is in a fast-paced decision-making environment. Your normal work week is 35 hours/week, 7 hours/day. This role does entail a high volume of work which may require longer than normal working hours and overtime. You may be required to travel to worksite locations.

In an emergency/disaster situation, you are obligated to work and will be called upon to return to work with little or no notice. These situations usually include stressful conditions (physical, emotional, and mental pressure) in the Provincial Coordination Centre (PCC) for unknown periods of time.  

Additional Information

• You may be required to report for extended hours at the Provincial Coordination Center (PCC) in Dartmouth in the event of provincial emergencies.
• You must have a valid driver’s license and immediate access to a reliable motor vehicle.

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
• Department specific flexible working schedules