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Disaster Program Manager Jobs in Downey, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Disaster Program Manager information

See Downey, CA salary details

$40K

$111.8K

$163.3K

How much do disaster program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for disaster program manager in Downey, CA is $111,751.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,700.00 and $137,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a disaster program manager do?

A Disaster Program Manager oversees the planning, coordination, and implementation of disaster response and recovery programs. They work with local communities, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to prepare for natural and man-made disasters, manage emergency response efforts, and support affected populations during and after emergencies. Responsibilities often include training volunteers, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring resources are in place for effective disaster management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a disaster program manager?

To thrive as a Disaster Program Manager, you need expertise in emergency management, project coordination, and a background in public safety or related fields, often supported by a bachelor's degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with incident command systems (ICS), emergency management software, and FEMA guidelines is typically required. Strong leadership, crisis communication, and problem-solving abilities help individuals excel in rapidly changing and high-pressure scenarios. These skills ensure effective disaster response, resource management, and community recovery during emergencies.

What are some common challenges disaster program managers face during large-scale emergency responses?

Disaster Program Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating multiple agencies, managing limited resources, and maintaining clear communication in rapidly changing situations. Balancing immediate needs with long-term recovery efforts can be demanding, especially when working with diverse teams and stakeholders. Flexibility, strong organizational skills, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure are essential to successfully navigate these challenges.

What is the difference between Disaster Program Manager vs Emergency Response Coordinator?

Disaster Program ManagerEmergency Response Coordinator
Develops and oversees disaster recovery programs, manages resources, and coordinates with agencies.Coordinates immediate response efforts during emergencies, manages on-the-ground response activities.
Requires certifications like FEMA certifications, project management skills, and experience in disaster planning.Often requires emergency management certifications, communication skills, and experience in crisis response.
Works in government agencies, NGOs, or large organizations involved in disaster recovery.Typically employed by emergency services, government agencies, or organizations involved in immediate response.

The main difference is that a Disaster Program Manager focuses on planning, developing, and managing disaster recovery programs, while an Emergency Response Coordinator handles immediate response efforts during emergencies. Both roles require related certifications and work in emergency management environments, but their focus and responsibilities differ significantly.

What cities near Downey, CA are hiring for Disaster Program Manager jobs?

Cities near Downey, CA with the most Disaster Program Manager job openings:

Disaster Program Manager jobs near you

Program Manager, Wildfire Preparedness Program (Antelope Valley)

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

CORE Community Organized Relief Effort
See more jobs at CORE Community Organized Relief Effortexternal

$77K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description
The Wildfire Preparedness Program Manager will co-lead the execution of a major grant in partnership with a local San Gabriel Valley community-based organization. This role includes strategic project management of various initiatives, such as education and targeted outreach for preparedness, home assessment, defensible space and fuel reduction. The Program Manager will provide leadership and supervision to Program Coordinators and other staff, acting as the main point of contact in the region. In addition, the Program Manager will work closely with CORE CA's Community & Environmental Equity's Area Manager to review weekly, monthly, and quarterly tasks and milestones to achieve the goals of the program.
This position may also be designated as a resource for national deployment to aid in various disaster scenarios as part of CORE's Emergency Response Team.
We require all employees to comply with our Mandatory Vaccination Policy. As a condition of employment individuals will be asked to provide proof of compliance.
Antelope Valley residents highly encouraged to apply.
Requirements
Responsibilities:
  • Lead CORE's design and implementation of an upstart wildfire preparedness program in San Gabriel Valley
  • Act as the primary liaison with the local partners, community-based organizations, and other key stakeholders.
  • Guide the vision, development, and delivery of wildfire preparedness education and outreach programs, specifically aimed at the region's most vulnerable and rural populations.
  • Manage relationships with a wide array of local, county and state stakeholders, fostering effective partnerships and community involvement.
  • Manage the program's administrative and data support needs, ensuring compliance, data integrity, and effective tracking of key metrics and resources.
  • Oversee the creation, presentation, and distribution of engaging and comprehensive wildfire preparedness educational materials and presentations.
  • Guide the inventory management of tools, equipment, supplies, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Maintain a comprehensive 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.
  • Supervise and mentors Program Coordinators and other entry-level staff and volunteers, providing guidance, knowledge, and support.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Scope & Travel:
  • Supervise 1-2 Wildfire Preparedness Program Coordinators.
  • Supervise other staff (such as California Emergency Response Corp Fellows and volunteers) as assigned.
  • Significant travel within the Antelope Valley communities. Travel also includes within Southern California 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 professional experience in wildfire mitigation or disaster preparedness. A master's degree is preferred.
  • Relevant certifications such as Wildland Firefighter/Field Crew, Certified Wildfire Mitigation Specialist or Project Management Professional (PMP) 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, Mandarin and/or Cantonese (preferred.)

Experience:
  • Minimum 3 years in the field of disaster preparedness, environmental health, or climate science/resilience.
  • Minimum of 3 years' experience in program management, wildfire mitigation or disaster preparedness, with a record of effective team leadership.
  • Proven experience in community outreach and education, especially with vulnerable populations.
  • Proficient in high-level project and people management.
  • Demonstrable ability to assess communities' highest wildfire risk areas and develop robust outreach and targeting training in Wildfire Preparedness.
  • Experience in inventory management of tools, equipment, and PPE.
  • 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:
  • Deep 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 and ESRI GIS Suite.
  • Work proactively with little supervision.
  • Flexible and adaptive to a frequently changing environment
  • Strong project management, leadership, and organizational skills.

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