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Emergency Management Planner Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

MSA is seeking a mid-level consultant with experience supporting Federal Government continuity and emergency management programs. The candidate must have knowledge of Continuity of Operations (COOP ...

Company Description MSA is seeking a mid-level consultant with experience supporting Federal Government continuity and emergency management programs. The candidate must have knowledge of Continuity ...

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Emergency Management Planner information

See Virginia salary details

$41.6K

$65.6K

$98.6K

How much do emergency management planner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for emergency management planner in Virginia is $65,625.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $75,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an emergency management planner do?

An Emergency Management Planner is responsible for developing procedures and plans to respond to natural disasters, emergencies, and other crises. They assess potential hazards, coordinate with local officials and organizations, and ensure that communities are prepared to handle emergencies effectively. Their duties also include conducting training exercises, updating emergency response plans, and helping to secure resources needed during disasters. The goal is to minimize risks and ensure a swift, organized response when emergencies occur.

What are some common challenges faced by emergency management planners, and how can they be addressed?

Emergency Management Planners often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple agencies, adapting to rapidly changing situations, and ensuring effective communication during emergencies. These challenges can be addressed by building strong interagency relationships, participating in regular training and simulation exercises, and implementing clear communication protocols. Staying current with best practices and technology also helps planners respond more effectively to emergencies and protect communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an emergency management planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Emergency Management Planner, you need expertise in risk assessment, emergency response planning, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a degree in emergency management or a related field. Familiarity with emergency management software, GIS tools, and certifications such as Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) are highly valuable. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help in coordinating with diverse stakeholders and managing crisis situations. These abilities are crucial for developing effective emergency plans and ensuring community resilience during disasters.

What is the difference between Emergency Management Planner vs Emergency Response Coordinator?

AspectEmergency Management PlannerEmergency Response Coordinator
CredentialsCertifications like ICS, FEMA courses, relevant degreesSimilar certifications, often with additional training in response tactics
Work EnvironmentPlanning offices, government agencies, community organizationsField operations, emergency sites, response teams
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, NGOs, private sectorEmergency services, fire departments, disaster response teams

Emergency Management Planners focus on developing preparedness and response plans, while Emergency Response Coordinators execute and manage on-the-ground response efforts. Both roles often share certifications and work within similar organizations, but their primary functions differ between planning and active response.

What are popular job titles related to Emergency Management Planner jobs in Virginia?

For Emergency Management Planner jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Emergency Management Planner jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Emergency Management Planner jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Emergency Management Planner job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,625 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Emergency Managment/COOP Planner

MSA

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Description

MSA is seeking a mid-level consultant with experience supporting Federal Government continuity and emergency management programs. The candidate must have knowledge of Continuity of Operations (COOP) and Continuity of Government (COG) and be familiar with Federal emergency management policies and concepts, including Presidential Policy Directive (PPD) 40 and Federal Continuity Directives (FCDs) 1 and 2. Minimum of four (4) years progressive experience required.

Qualifications

Responsibilities and Duties include but are not limited to: 

  • Providing onsite support to a Federal government client in the areas of COOP and occupant emergency programs.
  • Identifying and advising client regarding emergency management and business continuity best practices.
  • Implementing risk mitigation and business resiliency strategies.
  • Assisting federal client to manage emergencies and coordinate after action reviews to identify areas for improvement.
  • Promoting emergency awareness among the workforce.
  • Coordinating efforts of stakeholders across the organization.
  • Developing and maintaining program plans, policies, and procedures.
  • Conducting business impact and business process analyses.
  • Developing and facilitating group training courses and briefings.
  • Developing and delivering exercise programs in accordance with Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) principles and guidance.

Required Qualifications and Skills: 

  • Bachelor's degree.
  • Minimum four (4) years progressive experience.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to present to stakeholders.
  • Experience on Government projects required.
  • Outstanding presentation and facilitation skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced work environment, managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
  • US Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualification and Skills: 

  • Master's degree.
  • Three (3) years experience related to a government consulting or homeland security environment preferred, preferably in mission-critical or operational roles.
  • Federal continuity certification, FEMA Professional Development Series, and HSEEP training.
  • Knowledge working in SharePoint, or a similar collaboration environment.
  • Experience with emergency communications systems.

Required experience:

  • Government Consulting or Homeland Security: min 3 years
  • Progressive: min 4 years
  • COOP: min 2 years
Additional Information

Equal Opportunity Employer/M/F/D/V.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.