ROSS Concept Feedback

During radiological and nuclear emergencies, routine decisions and operations for state and local response agencies become increasingly complex. These actions require radiation experts to safeguard the public and responders. Through the creation of a new position called the Radiological Operations Support Specialist (ROSS), the Departments of Homeland Security (DHS) and Energy (DOE) want to train, equip, and certify radiation experts to integrate with the incident command system during a radiological response. These ROSS positions will directly support the incident commander, agency decision makers, and elected officials.

The ROSS will be a Technical Specialist under the National Incident Management Systems (NIMS).  The Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate (DHS S&T) and the National Nuclear Security Administration’s (NNSA) Office of Emergency Response are working with FEMA to determine the appropriate skills, knowledge, and abilities as well as the training and tools necessary for the ROSS position to succeed.

We are seeking your help in making this program a success.  Please help us by providing feedback on key elements of the ROSS concept, including:

·         Draft Position Qualifications
·         Job Task Analysis
·         Assessment of ROSS Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
·         Potential training courses