An Emergency Manager for Smith County, Kansas plays a central role in keeping the community safe before, during, and after disasters. At the highest level, the position is responsible for coordinating local, state, and federal resources to help the county prepare for, respond to, recover from, and reduce the impacts of natural, technological, and human‑caused emergencies. Smith County’s emergency management program follows the Integrated Emergency Management System, which focuses on preventing injuries, protecting lives, and minimizing property and environmental damage.
Day‑to‑day, the Emergency Manager develops and maintains the county’s disaster emergency plans, ensuring they meet Kansas Division of Emergency Management standards. This includes identifying local hazards, outlining response procedures, and clearly defining the responsibilities of all agencies involved in an emergency. Kansas law requires each county to maintain a disaster agency and keep its emergency plans current, and the Emergency Manager is the official responsible for fulfilling these statutory duties.
The role also involves extensive administrative and leadership responsibilities. According to a recent job description for Smith County, the Emergency Manager prepares regular reports, develops short‑ and long‑term departmental goals, manages budgets, oversees equipment purchases, and ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. The manager works closely with the Board of County Commissioners, advises them on emergency‑related issues, and coordinates with other public safety agencies, hospitals, and community organizations.
During major incidents or declared emergencies, the Emergency Manager may take command of county emergency operations. This includes directing response efforts, coordinating resources, and ensuring that all participating agencies work together effectively. The position requires strong communication skills, the ability to make decisions under pressure, and a commitment to community preparedness and resilience.
