1

Incident Command Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Lead the Cybersecurity Incident Response lifecycle as an Incident Commander during high-demand events/incidents. * Advise leadership and assist management of SOC personnel, personnel readiness, team ...

Incident Response SME

Arlington, VA · On-site

$112K - $257K/yr

Incident Response SME The Opportunity: As an expert in defense missions, your unique background ... Knowledge ofCombatant Command operations processes and CWMD doctrine * Ability tointegrate cross ...

The candidate should support development and implementation of the policies, processes, and platforms enhancing effective information sharing and information access across Incident Command and ...

... and Incident Commander (IC) for hostage recovery, detainee affairs, and other portfolios, as neededThe candidate should identify mission-critical information sharing and information access ...

Showing results 41-60

Incident Command information

What is incident command?

Incident Command refers to a standardized, on-scene management system used to coordinate emergency response operations. It is designed to enable effective and efficient incident management by integrating facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures, and communications within a common organizational structure. The Incident Command System (ICS) is widely used by fire, police, emergency medical services, and other agencies during emergencies such as natural disasters, accidents, or terrorist events. ICS helps ensure a coordinated response, clear leadership, and safety for responders and the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an incident commander, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Incident Commander, you need strong leadership, decision-making skills, and thorough knowledge of emergency response protocols, typically supported by relevant certifications such as ICS (Incident Command System) training. Familiarity with emergency management tools, communication systems, and resource-tracking software is crucial. Exceptional communication, composure under pressure, and the ability to coordinate diverse teams are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure effective crisis management, minimize risks, and facilitate swift, organized responses to emergencies.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in incident command roles, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals in Incident Command often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing situations, coordinating multiple teams, and maintaining clear communication under pressure. Effectively managing these issues requires strong leadership, adaptability, and a solid grasp of established incident command protocols. Regular training, clear delegation of tasks, and the use of real-time communication tools can significantly improve team coordination and response effectiveness during emergencies.

What is the difference between Incident Command vs Firefighter?

AspectIncident CommandFirefighter
Required credentialsEmergency management training, certifications like ICS, NIMSFirefighter certification, EMT/paramedic licenses
Work environmentCommand centers, incident sites, coordination rolesFire scenes, rescue operations, emergency response
Employer & industry usageEmergency management agencies, fire departments, disaster response teamsFire departments, rescue services, emergency response units

Incident Command and Firefighter roles often overlap during emergencies, but Incident Command focuses on managing and coordinating the response, while Firefighters are directly involved in suppression and rescue efforts. Both roles require specialized training and are essential in emergency situations, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

Is incident command a good career?

Incident command is a critical role in emergency response and disaster management, requiring strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills. It often involves working in high-pressure environments and may require certifications such as ICS (Incident Command System) training. The career can be rewarding for those interested in public safety and crisis management, with opportunities for advancement and specialization.

What does an incident command do?

An incident command is responsible for managing and coordinating emergency response efforts during incidents such as fires, accidents, or natural disasters. They establish objectives, allocate resources, and communicate with teams to ensure a safe and effective response. Incident commanders often use tools like the Incident Command System (ICS) and may hold certifications such as ICS or NIMS to perform their duties effectively.

What are popular job titles related to Incident Command jobs in Washington?

For Incident Command jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Incident Command jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Incident Command job openings:

Infographic showing various Incident Command job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

FY27: Director, Department of Safety and Security

Montgomery County Public Schools

Rockville, MD

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Montgomery County Public Schools (Virginia) rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

218th of 632 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION:
Under the direction of the Chief of Schools, leads and supervises the Department of Safety and Security, including the development, planning, implementation, maintenance and communication of a 24-hour comprehensive personal and physical security and school safety program for MCPS to ensure a safe and secure educational environment for students, staff, parents, and visitors. Supervises and evaluates department staff; provides leadership for department responses to security incidents, emergencies, and school safety initiatives and improvements. Works with schools to support the development and implementation of comprehensive safety and security training programs for staff. Works collaboratively with regional associate superintendents, school directors, and system leadership, public safety partners and cross-functional teams to plan, train staff, respond to incidents and develop programs, procedures, technology-supported systems and initiatives that ensure safe and secure schools. Physical Demands: NoneSpecial Requirements: Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends and holidays in order to respond to emergencies.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of the organization, policies, regulations, operating and capital improvements program budgets of MCPS or a comparable large public-school system. Thorough knowledge of current safety and security strategies, protocols and communications technology. Thorough knowledge of current safety and security strategies, protocols, emergency preparedness practices, incident command structures, crises response procedures and communications protocol; knowledge of technology systems that support and enhance school safety, including access control, video surveillance, visitor management, emergency notification, radio communication, alarm, and incident reporting systems. Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws, regulations and ordinances related to school safety and security. Ability to plan, organize, monitor, and evaluate a comprehensive safety and security program in a large public-school system. Ability to analyze incident data, security audit findings, and safety trends to recommend staffing, training, technology, equipment, and operational improvements. Ability to lead emergency response activities, coordinate with public safety agencies, and provide guidance to school and central office leaders during critical incidents. Ability to develop, implement, and monitor standard operating procedures, emergency response plans, crisis management plans, drills, and safety/security training programs. Excellent oral and written communication and human relations skills. Excellent organizational and negotiation skills. Knowledge of or ability to quickly learn and apply the six leadership standards established for MCAAP/MCBOA and the Supporting Services Professional Growth System (PGS), including the supervision, evaluation, and professional development of staff.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in law enforcement, public administration, emergency management/public safety, education, public administration or a related field. Master?s preferred. Minimum of five years of progressively more responsible experience in safety and security field, which includes managing school and school system safety and security, emergency preparedness, incident command structures, and responsive strategies following an emergency or safety incident. Experience leading organizational change and utilizing safety data to implement strategic improvement plans. Experience planning, implementing, and evaluating comprehensive safety and security programs in a large, complex organization, preferably in a public school system. Knowledge of safety and security technology, equipment, and systems used to support safe and secure school environments. Experience in budget preparation and administration, supervision, and training. Experience collaborating with school administrators, central office staff, public safety agencies, community partners, and other stakeholders to support prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Experience supervising, coaching, evaluating, and supporting staff in a safety, security, emergency management, or related operational environment. Other combinations of applicable education, training, and experience which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: Possession of a valid Maryland Class C license or equivalent.


What Montgomery County Public Schools (Virginia) employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom