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Disaster Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$54K - $68K/yr

Monitoring policies and procedures as identified by programs or shared services; researching ... disaster recovery programs, specifically the monitoring and review or project management of ...

$85K - $113K/yr

Research industry trends and emerging technologies to enhance DR and resilience capabilities. WHAT YOU'LL BRING * 6+ years of IT experience with exposure to disaster recovery, business continuity, or ...

As a Disaster Services Intern, you will assist in the assessment and development of ARC programs ... Conduct research related to the program and recommend processes for greater efficiency. Assist with ...

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Disaster Research information

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How much do disaster research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for disaster research in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Disaster Research vs Emergency Management?

AspectDisaster ResearchEmergency Management
Required CredentialsTypically requires degrees in social sciences, public health, or related fields; research experienceRequires degrees in public administration, emergency management, or related fields; certifications like CERT or ICS
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, policy analysis settingsGovernment agencies, disaster response teams, emergency operations centers
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government policy agenciesLocal, state, federal emergency agencies, NGOs

Disaster Research focuses on studying the social, economic, and behavioral aspects of disasters through research and analysis. Emergency Management involves planning, coordinating, and executing disaster response and recovery efforts. While both roles aim to mitigate disaster impacts, Disaster Research emphasizes understanding and policy development, whereas Emergency Management concentrates on operational response and preparedness.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in disaster research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in disaster research often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing conditions, limited access to affected sites, and gathering reliable data during chaotic situations. Collaborating with local authorities and establishing strong networks beforehand can help improve access and data quality. Additionally, adaptability, clear communication with multidisciplinary teams, and continuous training in new research methodologies are crucial for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring impactful research outcomes.

What is disaster research?

Disaster research is the scientific study of natural and human-made disasters, focusing on their causes, impacts, and strategies for prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. Researchers in this field analyze events like earthquakes, hurricanes, pandemics, and technological accidents to understand their effects on communities, infrastructure, and the environment. The goal is to develop knowledge and methods that can help mitigate risks, improve emergency response, and enhance resilience to future disasters.

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

To thrive as a Disaster Researcher, a strong background in environmental science, public health, or emergency management with experience in data analysis and field research is essential. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical analysis tools, and specialized disaster management systems, as well as relevant certifications like Certified Emergency Manager (CEM), are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, adaptability, and effective communication skills help researchers interpret complex data and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for generating actionable insights that inform disaster response strategies and policy development.
What states have the most Disaster Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Disaster Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Disaster Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Health Disaster Preparedness (Unpaid Intern)

Health Disaster Preparedness (Unpaid Intern)

Orange County, CA

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

Internship

Posted 25 days ago


County Of Orange (California) rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

129th of 659 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Location : Orange County
Job Type: Unpaid Intern
Job Number: 0000IN-0924-042 (O)
Department: Health Care Agency
Opening Date: 09/06/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
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
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
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
For additional internship postings, please check our Web site at the following link:
Click for additional Frequently Asked Questions.
For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, please contact (714) 834-2555 or
EEO INFORMATION
Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer,
encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

This position does not offer any benefits.
If you have any questions, please contact the recruiter for this position. The recruiter should be listed on the Job Posting.
01
To be considered for an internship opportunity, you must submit by attaching to this application your cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts.
I have read and understand this requirement to be considered.
(Please attach cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts)
  • YES
  • NO

02
I am currently 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 related fields. Or I am a recent graduate (within 6 months) and obtained my degree in one of the above fields of study.
  • YES
  • NO

03
Please list computer programs that you have experience with such as Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.
04
Please list the number of hours you can schedule each week.
05
Please enter approximate date you can begin internship.
06
Please list out the days you are available to schedule intern hours and the available times for each day.Example: Monday, 10am-2pm.
07
Please read the following statement carefully. After reading the statement, answer the question.
In conjunction with the passage of Assembly Bill 2830 by the California State Legislature, specific individuals may qualify for hiring preference when applying for an internship position.
Individuals who are, or have been, a dependent child in foster care, a homeless youth, or a formerly incarcerated youth as defined by Government Code section 31000.11 are encouraged to apply and will be given priority in the hiring process. Please note that prior to appointment, individuals claiming preference under one of these categories may be required to furnish documentation establishing their eligibility. Are you eligible to receive this hiring preference based on Government Code 31000.11?
Select "Yes" only if you belong to one of the above mentioned categories
  • No, I am not eligible
  • I am, or have been, a dependent child in foster care, a homeless youth, or a formerly incarcerated youth as defined by Government Code section 31000.11

08
As part of the background process, students applying for an internship will need to provide a social security number. Are you able to meet this requirement?
  • YES
  • NO

09
Will you receive academic credit through your college/university? (Students will be asked to provide University agreements or MOUs that a site supervisor is required to sign before being offered placement)
  • YES
  • NO

Required Question

What County Of Orange (California) employees say

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