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Disaster Preparedness Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SBP

Disaster Recovery AmeriCorps Member

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$2.2K - $2.4K/mo

As a Client Preparedness Coordinator, you will execute community-wide preparedness engagements and work with SBP's clients to increase their knowledge and capacity to make more informed disaster ...

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Disaster Preparedness information

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How much do disaster preparedness jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for disaster preparedness in the United States is $22.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Disaster Preparedness vs Emergency Management Coordinator?

AspectDisaster PreparednessEmergency Management Coordinator
Required CredentialsCertifications in emergency planning, safety, or public healthCertifications in emergency management, public safety, or related fields
Work EnvironmentCommunity, government agencies, non-profits, focusing on planning and trainingGovernment agencies, organizations, overseeing response and recovery efforts
Employer & IndustryPublic safety, government, non-profitsGovernment agencies, public safety organizations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding planning and preparedness rolesManaging actual emergency responses and coordination

Disaster Preparedness focuses on planning, training, and preparing communities or organizations for potential disasters. In contrast, Emergency Management Coordinators oversee the response and recovery efforts during actual emergencies. Both roles require similar certifications and often work within government or public safety sectors, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How hard is it to get a job with FEMA?

Getting a disaster preparedness job with FEMA typically requires relevant experience, such as emergency management or public safety, and often involves a competitive application process including background checks and assessments. Candidates may need to obtain certifications like ICS or NIMS and demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills; the hiring process can take several months due to federal hiring procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in disaster preparedness roles?

Professionals in disaster preparedness often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple agencies, managing limited resources, and ensuring timely communication during emergencies. They must also continuously update and test emergency response plans to adapt to evolving threats and regulations. Additionally, balancing routine administrative duties with rapid response needs requires strong organizational skills and adaptability. Building community awareness and engagement is another ongoing challenge, as effective preparedness depends on public cooperation and understanding.

What careers are in Disaster Management?

Careers in disaster management include roles such as emergency management director, disaster response coordinator, hazard analyst, and emergency services technician. These positions often require skills in crisis response, planning, and communication, and may involve certifications like FEMA or ICS training. Professionals in this field work to prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural and man-made disasters.

How to get a job in emergency preparedness?

To pursue a career in emergency preparedness, candidates typically need a background in public safety, emergency management, or related fields, along with relevant certifications such as FEMA's Emergency Management Institute courses. Gaining experience through internships or volunteer work and developing skills in risk assessment, communication, and crisis response can improve job prospects in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Disaster Preparedness Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Disaster Preparedness Specialist, you need expertise in emergency management, risk assessment, and planning, typically supported by a degree in emergency management or a related field. Familiarity with incident command systems (ICS), geographic information systems (GIS), and certifications like Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) are commonly required. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills are essential for coordinating teams and engaging communities. These competencies are crucial to effectively plan, respond, and recover from emergencies, minimizing risks and safeguarding lives and property.

Do disaster relief workers get paid?

Disaster relief workers are typically paid for their services, especially if they are employed by government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies. Compensation varies based on the organization, role, experience, and whether the position is full-time, part-time, or volunteer; many roles also require specialized skills and certifications.

What is disaster preparedness?

Disaster preparedness refers to the steps and planning individuals, communities, organizations, and governments take to be ready for emergency situations like natural disasters, pandemics, or other crises. It involves assessing risks, creating emergency plans, assembling supplies, and conducting training or drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. Effective disaster preparedness can help minimize damage, save lives, and allow for quicker recovery after a disaster occurs.
More about Disaster Preparedness jobs
What cities are hiring for Disaster Preparedness jobs? Cities with the most Disaster Preparedness job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Disaster Preparedness jobs? The most popular types of Disaster Preparedness jobs are:
What states have the most Disaster Preparedness jobs? States with the most job openings for Disaster Preparedness jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Disaster Preparedness jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Disaster Preparedness jobs are:
Disaster Preparedness jobs near you
Infographic showing various Disaster Preparedness job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,617 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Health Disaster Preparedness (Unpaid Intern)

Health Disaster Preparedness (Unpaid Intern)

County of Orange

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$33K - $39K/yr

Other

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

CAREER DESCRIPTION Position Health Disaster Preparedness Intern Health Care Agency Applications are currently being accepted on a continuous basis until the needs of the department are met. This position may close at any time and applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. HEALTH CARE AGENCY The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) is a regional provider, charged with protecting and promoting individual, family and community health through coordination of public and private sector resources.

Specialized Medical Services is comprised of multiple divisions that provide oversight of care and delivery of care to some of the most vulnerable pediatric and adult populations in Orange County. These include California Children's Services, Office of the Public Guardian, Emergency Medical Services and Health Disaster Preparedness. In addition, the Employee Health Services division provides oversight of the occupational health of the County of Orange's 18,000 employees.

We are committed to serving both the Orange County community and County of Orange employees with a consistent focus on quality of services provided and steadfast dedication on achieving and maintaining the highest standard of care in each specialized area. THE OPPORTUNITY The Orange County Health Care Agency, Health Disaster Preparedness team, is seeking motivated and dedicated individuals to support our planning and research initiatives. This internship/volunteer opportunity offers invaluable experience in emergency management and public health.

Duties and Responsibilities: Conduct in-depth research on various topics related to but not limited to health disaster preparedness. Assist in the development and implementation of emergency preparedness exercises. Support the management and utilization of emergency preparedness technology.

Prepare documents, reports, and grant workplans as assigned. Organize and maintain electronic files and databases. Create forms and spreadsheets to support team operations.

Assist staff with various administrative tasks. Participate in disaster exercises and drills. Qualifications: Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university majoring in Public Health, Healthcare Administration, Health Information Management, Emergency Management, Computer Science, Public Safety, Political Science, Public Administration, Law, Fire Science, Public Affairs, Communications, Public Relations, Public Policy, or a related field.

Recent graduates (within 6 months) are also eligible to apply. Strong reading, writing, and research skills. Excellent organizational and time management abilities.

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Some knowledge of grants is desirable but not required. Interest in emergency management and public health.

TIME COMMITMENT Immediate placement is available, in-person only. A minimum of 8 hours per week is required over one semester or quarter. Interns may extend their internship up to 12 months if desired.

Hours must be scheduled during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM). BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO INTERNS Although this is an unpaid internship that does not lead to permanent employment or include employee benefits, the position offers students or recent graduates experience in working within a large governmental entity. The Health Disaster Preparedness section provides exposure to many different aspects of health care as it relates to disaster preparedness and response, as staff coordinate daily with local, state and federal governmental stakeholders as a part of routine operations.

Health Disaster Preparedness is one of the few assignments within the County that the intern may be exposed to a multi-faceted government coordination. This assignment also provides an opportunity for students to explore career options, apply academic knowledge and skills to the workplace, gain career skills, build resumes and network with professionals in their fields of interest including mentorship from a Health Disaster Preparedness Chief. APPLICATION PROCEDURE Applicants must attach a cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts to their application.

The cover letter is an opportunity for students to describe career and academic goals, to elaborate upon personal and academic accomplishments, and to identify what type of internship experience they are seeking. Learn more about what to include in a cover letter on our website here. REQUIRED BACKGROUND SCREENING/REFERENCE CHECK Prior to placement, applicants may be asked to submit contact information for reference checks, and a background screening will be conducted that requires a state issued driver's license or ID card and a U.S

Social Security number and live scan. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION EMAIL NOTIFICATION: Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account.

NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply. Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site

Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at www.governmentjobs.com. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: For additional internship postings, please check our Web site at the following link: https://hrs.ocgov.com/careers/volunteer-intern/internships/internship-opportunities Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions. For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, please contact (714) 834-2555 or countyoforangeinterns@ceo.oc.gov EEO INFORMATION Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer, encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

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