Emergency Planner-Peer Support

Under limited supervision, the Emergency Planner (Peer Support) performs planning, coordination, and program support activities for the Horry County Emergency Management Department using an all-hazards approach. This position is responsible for supporting the development, coordination, and maintenance of emergency management plans, training, and operational readiness across Horry County.
The position serves as a primary liaison between Horry County Government, public safety agencies, healthcare partners, and local, state, and federal stakeholders to ensure coordinated preparedness, response, and recovery capabilities. Responsibilities include assisting with the development and maintenance of the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP), supporting training and exercise activities, coordinating with partner agencies and stakeholder groups, and supporting Emergency Operations Center (EOC) operations during activations.
This position also serves as the countywide coordinator for the Horry County Public Safety Peer Support Program, working with peer support teams already established within Fire Rescue, EMS, Police, Sheriff’s Office, Detention Center, Emergency Management, E911, and other public safety agencies that may benefit from peer support services. Responsibilities include coordinating cross-agency peer support activities, aligning training and response practices, facilitating access to behavioral health resources following high-stress or traumatic incidents, and supporting defusing and debriefings when appropriate. The position works collaboratively with departmental leadership, behavioral health providers, and community partners to strengthen initiatives focused on responder wellness and resilience.
Additionally, this position is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the implementation and use of peer support technology platforms, including the peer support application utilized across public safety agencies, to ensure accessibility, functionality, and effective utilization by personnel seeking support services.
Additional responsibilities include: supporting regional coordination efforts, assisting with grant reporting and program documentation, serving as an EOC Liaison during activations, and supporting coordination among public safety agencies, healthcare partners, and emergency management.
The position requires knowledge of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the Incident Command System (ICS), strong organizational and communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Public outreach, training support, and interagency coordination are essential functions of this role.

• Assist with the development, coordination, and maintenance of the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP), including annexes, SOPs, and supporting documents in accordance with state and federal guidance.
• Support the development and delivery of emergency management training, workshops, and exercises for county departments and partner agencies.
• Coordinate with local, regional, state, and federal agencies in support of emergency planning, response, and recovery efforts.
• Assist in the development and maintenance of planning documents, situational awareness tools, and operational procedures.
• Support grant management activities, including documentation, reporting, and compliance with applicable program requirements.
• Maintain program records, reports, and documentation related to emergency management activities.
• Serve as the countywide coordinator for peer support teams operating within Horry County Public Safety agencies.
• Coordinate cross-agency peer support operations to ensure consistent access to services for all public safety personnel.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration among departmental peer support teams, leadership, and partner organizations.
• Support peer support activations following critical incidents, including coordination of defusings, debriefings, and follow-up services when appropriate.
• Coordinate training opportunities and continuing education for peer support team members in collaboration with departmental leadership and training staff.
• Maintain a current inventory of peer support resources, team contacts, and available behavioral health services.
• Support responder wellness initiatives, including resilience training, stress management education, and mental health awareness efforts.
• Assist with information sharing, resource coordination, and situational reporting during emergency incidents.
• Support operational coordination and communication within the EOC environment.
• Conduct presentations and outreach related to emergency management, responder wellness, and available support resources.
• Maintain documentation of program activities, training participation, and operational support efforts.
• Assist with data collection and reporting requirements for grant-funded programs, including SCORF initiatives.
• Maintain professional knowledge through training, conferences, and continuing education in emergency management and responder wellness.
• Serve as the on-call Emergency Management representative on a rotating basis, providing 24-hour emergency contact coverage and responding to after-hours incidents as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission of Horry County Emergency Management.

KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Two to four years of emergency management-related experience preferred. Experience as a training instructor and documented continuing education in emergency management-related courses/functions preferred. Working knowledge of Peer Support is preferred. The Emergency Planner will be expected to work toward and obtain a South Carolina Certified Emergency Manager certification.   Understanding of NIMS/Incident Command System preferred. Must possess general knowledge of Microsoft Office software. One must possess a valid driver’s license and a satisfactory motor vehicle record.

QUALIFICATIONS
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: 
FEMA Independent Study Course-100c, 200c, 700b, and 800d.