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Disaster Preparedness Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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How much do disaster preparedness jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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.

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 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.

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:
Infographic showing various Disaster Preparedness job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,617 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Program Coordinator, Wildfire Preparedness (Antelope Valley)

CORE Community Organized Relief Effort

Lancaster, CA • On-site

$28.64/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description
• Responsibilities:
Assist with the design and implementation of a wildfire preparedness program in the Antelope Valley
• Assist with the vision, development, and delivery of wildfire preparedness education and outreach programs, specifically aimed at the region's most vulnerable and rural populations.
• Act as secondary liaison with community-based organizations, government entities, and other key stakeholders
• Maintain understanding of all local, state, and federal emergency alert systems, fire weather warnings, weather radar/winds and assist the community in understanding and becoming active users of these resources
• Manage relationships with a wide array of local, county and state stakeholders, fostering effective partnerships and community involvement
Adhere to program fiscal budgets in conjunction with leadership and ensure financial compliance
Maintain compliance with grant guidelines, local, state, and federal laws, and organizational policies
Help identify growth opportunities within Southern California (and beyond) and create strategic partnerships to achieve program objectives
Foster collaborative relationships with internal staff and external agencies
Research to collect, organize, and evaluate data and information to inform program direction
Assist in identification and research of grant opportunities to expand departmental portfolio
Represent the organization at selected community events
• Create, present, and distribute engaging and comprehensive wildfire preparedness educational materials and presentations.
• Other duties as assigned
Scope & Travel:
Reports to Program Manager
• Will need to drive locally and throughout CORE's service areas across Los Angeles County. Significant travel within the Antelope Valley communities. Travel also includes within Southern California (Headquarters and satellite offices) for work meetings, trainings, conferences, and field operations.
• Weekend availability for occasional events and community engagement
Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in wildfire management, emergency management, environmental science, forestry, or a related field, OR equivalent field experience in wildfire mitigation or disaster preparedness.
Minimum 1-2 years in the field of environmental sciences, climate action/resilience, sustainability or community outreach and climate engagement/programs
• Relevant certifications such as Wildland Firefighter/Field Crew, Certified Wildfire Mitigation Specialist are preferred, and equivalent experience will be considered.
• Proficiency in creating and delivering presentations to a variety of audiences in different environments.
• Proficiency in a second language such as Spanish (native proficiency preferred)
• Proficiency in Canva and Microsoft Office
• Skilled research, reading, writing, and organizing data into reports
• Highly organized and a self starter
Experience:
• Minimum 1-2 years in the field of disaster preparedness, environmental health, or climate science/resilience.
• Minimum of 1-2 years' experience in program implementation, wildfire mitigation or disaster preparedness.
• Proven experience in community outreach and education, especially with vulnerable populations.
• Demonstrable ability to assess Communities' highest wildfire risk areas, and develop robust outreach and targeting training in Wildfire Preparedness.
• Familiarity with the Antelope Valley and its specific wildfire risks and community dynamics.
• Demonstrated experience with preparing and managing grant funded budgets. Ability to make decisions and pivot based on budget fluctuations.
Familiarity with community-based organizations in Antelope Valley.
Skills & Competencies:
• Understanding of wildfire home assessment and defensible space best practices.
• Proficiency in data management, with an emphasis on attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills, with experience presenting to diverse audiences.
• Comprehensive knowledge of local emergency alert systems and fire weather warnings and fire behavior.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail and a high level of output.
• Proficient in MS Office applications (Excel, Word, Powerpoint).
• Proficient in content creation applications (Canva).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Work proactively with little supervision.
Flexible and adaptive to a frequently changing environment