Overview The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking a collaborative, experienced leader to serve as the Deputy Director of the Vermont School Safety Center (VSSC), reporting to the Vermont Homeland Security Unit Director. This role will help shape statewide school safety initiatives, coordinate emergency preparedness efforts, and serve as the Department's primary operational liaison for school safety incidents across Vermont. This position works closely with the Agency of Education, Vermont State Police, Homeland Security, local schools, and state and federal partners to strengthen school safety, improve crisis preparedness, and support schools before, during, and after critical incidents.

The position will:

Lead statewide school safety planning, preparedness, and emergency response initiatives. Provide 24/7 operational support and guidance during school safety incidents, including threats, emergencies, lockdowns, and other critical events. Coordinate with education, public safety, emergency management, and government partners to ensure a unified response to school safety concerns. Develop and deliver training, exercises, and technical assistance for school leaders, educators, school boards, first responders, and crisis planning teams. Share expertise on school safety best practices, emerging threats, crisis communications, emergency operations planning, and family reunification. Lead and facilitate statewide school safety meetings and, after six months, transition into the Co-Chair role for the Vermont School Crisis Planning Team. Present to legislative committees, statewide conferences, and stakeholder groups on school safety initiatives and best practices. Supervise Vermont School Safety Center staff, including oversight of grants, planning, training, and youth preparedness initiatives. Support State Emergency Operations Center activations during emergencies, including planning, coordination, and information sharing. Monitor program effectiveness, complete required reporting, and collaborate with leadership to continuously improve school safety programs. The ideal candidate brings a strong background in emergency management, public safety, education, or a related field, along with experience leading complex programs and building partnerships across organizations.

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

Knowledge of school safety laws, regulations, and national best practices. Experience with crisis management, emergency planning, and incident response. Experience developing and delivering training programs and evaluating organizational readiness. Strong leadership and supervisory skills. Knowledge of the National Incident Management System (NIMS). Excellent communication, collaboration, and relationship-building abilities. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. The ability to remain calm under pressure and respond effectively during emergencies. This position includes participation in emergency response activities and requires availability outside of normal business hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to support critical school safety incidents and State Emergency Operations Center activations as needed.

Who May Apply This position, VT School Safety Center Deputy Director (Job Requisition #55284), is open to all State employees and external applicants. If you would like more information about this position, please contact Ron LaFond at Ronald.

LaFond@vermont.gov.

Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.

PUBLIC SAFETY BACKGROUND CHECKS

Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position to include Motor Vehicle/Criminal Records, Personal History, Credit and any additional background check(s).Environmental Factors Work is usually performed in a normal office setting. Incumbents must be able to concentrate on details and perform accurate work in the face of frequent interruptions. Human relations skills will be needed to deal with staff, criminal justice agencies, and the public. Pressure from work deadlines is predictable as well as inherent liability issues due to the sensitivity of the work. Moderate work-related travel will be required. Testimony before legislative committees may be required.

Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree or higher in public administration, criminal justice, criminology, or a related field AND four (4) or more years of experience in emergency or crisis management and response . OR Six (6) or more years of experience in emergency or crisis management and response.

Preferred Qualifications Experience with Legislative testimony and bill tracking Supervisory or team lead experience Experience with Vermont schools or in the field of education Knowledge of the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program Experience creating and/or facilitating trainingsSpecial Requirements Must pass a department conducted background check. Must pass a federal secret clearance to retain employment. This may take longer than the normal six (6) month probationary period, but employment in this position may be terminated for failure to have the ability to attain the secret clearance. Ability to respond to emergency situations during off hours. While this is not an "operational" or sworn position, there is an expectation that the Deputy Director would play a leadership role in a true emergency. Successful completion of a criminal background check may be required.

Total Compensation As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including: 80% State paid medical premium Dental Plan at no cost for employees and their families Flexib le Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan; many jobs also allow for a flexible schedule Low cost group life insurance Tuition Reimbursement Incentive-based Wellness Program Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State's employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.