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Disaster Preparedness Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Red Cross

Disaster Program Manager

Lubbock, TX · On-site

Functional activities include mass care, response, community preparedness, recovery, planning, and readiness. Lead the Program: Implement either disaster cycle services activities within assigned ...

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Disaster Preparedness information

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How much do disaster preparedness jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,617 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Division Director - Disaster Response

Catholic Charities of Acadiana

Scott, LA • On-site

$50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Summary

Catholic Charities of Acadiana is seeking an experienced, compassionate, and mission-driven Division Director of Disaster Response to lead our disaster preparedness, response, and long-term recovery efforts throughout the Diocese of Lafayette and beyond. This leadership role is responsible for coordinating every phase of disaster operations-from preparing before storms strike to helping families rebuild long after the immediate crisis has passed. The Division Director provides strategic leadership while remaining actively engaged in field operations, overseeing recovery projects, supervising staff, managing volunteers, and building strong partnerships with government agencies, churches, nonprofits, and community organizations. This position requires a calm, decisive leader who can navigate rapidly changing situations, support individuals and families experiencing crisis, and inspire others through service. If you are passionate about disaster recovery, thrive in fast-paced environments, and want to make a lasting impact in the communities we serve, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead all phases of disaster response, including preparedness, emergency response, damage assessment, relief operations, and long-term recovery efforts
  • Maintain disaster readiness by overseeing equipment, trailers, vehicles, tools, and emergency response resources
  • Coordinate with Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) before, during, and after disaster events
  • Deploy to disaster-affected areas within and beyond the Diocese of Lafayette as needed to coordinate response and recovery activities
  • Supervise Disaster Response staff, including the Disaster Response Coordinator and Disaster Case Manager, providing leadership, coaching, and performance management
  • Oversee client intake, home assessments, case prioritization, and referrals while ensuring timely, compassionate service delivery
  • Coordinate case conferencing with municipal agencies, nonprofit partners, and community organizations to address complex client needs
  • Ensure accurate documentation and reporting within Airtable, Salesforce, and other required data management systems
  • Oversee volunteer construction projects and ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with quality standards
  • Manage home repair and reconstruction projects, providing hands-on construction support when necessary
  • Build and maintain collaborative relationships with FEMA, GOHSEP/OHSEP, Catholic Charities USA, VOAD partners, local governments, churches, contractors, and community organizations
  • Represent Catholic Charities of Acadiana at disaster response meetings, recovery coalitions, and community planning efforts
  • Prepare reports, monitor project progress, and communicate updates through established organizational channels
  • Utilize Microsoft Teams, project management systems, and organizational software to coordinate operations and monitor recovery activities
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and professional work environment while ensuring compliance with organizational safety standards
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Emergency Management, Construction Management, Public Administration, Human Services, or a related field, and/or trade school or technical training with at least two years of professional experience
  • Experience leading disaster response, emergency management, construction, recovery, or related operations preferred
  • Experience responding to at least two major natural disasters preferred
  • Construction knowledge with the ability to oversee residential repair and rebuilding projects preferred
  • Strong leadership, organizational, project management, and decision-making skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively engage survivors, volunteers, church leadership, government agencies, contractors, donors, and community partners
  • Ability to remain calm, organized, and adaptable while working in rapidly changing, high-pressure environments
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Airtable, Salesforce, and project management software
  • Compassionate, client-centered approach with the ability to support individuals and families experiencing crisis
  • Forklift certification or willingness to obtain certification
  • Ability to travel throughout the service area and respond to disasters outside normal business hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended deployments as needed

Job Specifications

  • Heavy: Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, or 10 to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Medium Work.
  • Job Type: Full-time
  • Benefits:
    • Dental insurance
    • Flexible spending account
    • Health insurance
    • Life insurance
    • Retirement plan
    • Vision insurance