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Emergency Management Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Emergency Management information

See Tennessee salary details

$34.9K

$81K

$132.1K

How much do emergency management jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for emergency management in Tennessee is $80,980.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $98,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an emergency management professional do?

An Emergency Management job focuses on preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies and disasters. Professionals in this field develop response plans, coordinate with agencies, and ensure public safety during crises such as natural disasters, health emergencies, or security threats. They work for government agencies, non-profits, or private organizations to minimize risks and improve disaster resilience. Strong communication, planning, and problem-solving skills are essential in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for emergency management?

To thrive in Emergency Management, you need expertise in disaster response planning, risk assessment, and incident command, typically supported by a relevant bachelor’s degree and certifications such as Certified Emergency Manager (CEM). Familiarity with emergency management software like WebEOC, GIS mapping tools, and federal response frameworks such as FEMA’s NIMS/ICS is often required. Strong communication, leadership, and decision-making skills help professionals coordinate effectively under pressure. These skills ensure effective crisis response, collaboration with agencies, and public safety during emergencies.

What are common challenges faced by emergency management professionals, and how do they manage them?

Emergency management professionals often face challenges such as rapidly evolving situations, coordinating with multiple agencies, and limited resources during emergencies. They manage these challenges by maintaining detailed preparedness plans, participating in regular training and drills, and using clear communication protocols with stakeholders. Staying adaptable and calm under pressure is essential, as is leveraging technology for real-time information and resource management. Working collaboratively within diverse teams is also key to ensuring a coordinated and effective response.

Are emergency managers in demand?

Emergency managers are in demand due to increasing frequency of natural disasters, climate change impacts, and the need for disaster preparedness and response planning. The role often requires certifications such as the Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) and skills in crisis communication, risk assessment, and coordination with government agencies. Employment prospects are generally strong across various regions, especially in government, healthcare, and private sectors.

What can you do with emergency management?

Emergency management professionals coordinate and implement plans to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters and emergencies. They conduct risk assessments, develop response strategies, and collaborate with agencies to ensure community safety. Certifications like the Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) can enhance career opportunities in this field.

What is a career in emergency management?

A career in emergency management involves coordinating and implementing plans to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters and emergencies. Professionals in this field often work with government agencies, first responders, and communities, utilizing skills in risk assessment, communication, and crisis response. Certifications such as the Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) can enhance job prospects, and the work environment may include irregular hours during emergencies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Emergency Management jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Emergency Management jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Emergency Management jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Emergency Management job openings:

Infographic showing various Emergency Management job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,980 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Planner - Emergency Management Agency

Rutherford County Government

Murfreesboro, TN • On-site

$63K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Annual Salary - $63,913 - $68,590
Your Mission in Planning
As a Planner within the Emergency Management Agency, you'll make a difference by strengthening Rutherford County's readiness for emergencies and disasters. This purpose-driven role supports community resilience by ensuring plans, people, and systems are aligned with federal, state and local requirements.
Key responsibilities:
  • Develops, reviews, maintains, and updates the County Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), Hazard Mitigation Plan, Continuity of Operations (COOP) plans, and other emergency management plans to ensure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal requirements
  • Assists in the development and delivery of Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) compliant exercises and training activities designed to test emergency plans, procedures, and operational capabilities
  • Maintain Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and alternate EOC activation readiness
  • Coordinate planning and preparedness efforts with local, state, and federal partners
  • Participate in rotating on-call coverage (evenings/nights/holidays/weekends) and respond during EOC activations, exercises, or other events requiring emergency management support
  • Assists in the development and delivery of Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) compliant exercises and training activities designed to test emergency plans, procedures, and operational capabilities
  • Provides staff support to the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC), including planning, coordination, documentation, hazardous materials emergency preparedness, and applicable compliance activities.

Required qualifications/skills:
  • Bachelor's degree in Emergency Management, Fire Science, Business Management or other related fields; supplemented by two (2) years previous training/experience in related Emergency Management planning or operations; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the fundamental principles of emergency management planning including; mitigation, preparedness, prevention, recovery, & response.
  • ICS 100/200/700/800
  • Valid Tennessee driver's license

Apply at to make a meaningful impact by strengthening Rutherford County's preparedness, resilience, and ability to respond when it matters most. .
Support That Matters
Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage; Life Insurance; Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA); 401(k); Tennessee Consolidated Retirement Pension (TCRS); Paid Time Off; Competitive Salary; Employee Discounts; and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Our Public Purpose
  • To promote and increase efficiency and responsiveness for the residents of Rutherford County.
  • To provide fair and equal opportunity to all qualified applicants who apply for employment with Rutherford County based only on demonstrated merit and fitness as ascertained through fair and practical methods of selection.
  • To develop a program of recruitment and advancement that presents Rutherford County in a professional manner in terms of career interest and encouragement.
  • To establish and promote high morale among employees by providing professional working relationships, a uniform personnel policy, opportunity for advancement, and consideration for the employee's needs and desires.
  • To adhere to the highest standards of honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior in working with our citizens, vendors, and employees.