1

Emergency Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Emergency Manager

Rialto, CA ยท On-site

$101K - $136K/yr

Develops, coordinates, and manages the City's emergency operations plan in accordance with the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS) to ...

Develops, coordinates, and manages the City's emergency operations plan in accordance with the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS) to ...

Provide technical assistance/advice on risk management issues related to fire protection and emergency preparedness and response. * Oversee oil spill response program as needed. * Support the Safety ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Emergency Manager information

See California salary details

$38K

$88.1K

$143.6K

How much do emergency manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for emergency manager in California is $88,055.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,700.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an emergency manager do?

An emergency manager organizes disaster response training to prepare citizens and government personnel for a crisis. As an emergency manager, you may serve as an advisor to the local government, or you may have the authority to make decisions regarding crisis management in the event of a disaster. In between crises, your job duties include raising community awareness about preparing for and responding to emergencies, developing professional relationships with media and communications outlets, and collaborating with emergency response personnel to coordinate crisis management strategies.

What does an emergency manager do?

An Emergency Manager is responsible for preparing for, responding to, and recovering from natural and man-made disasters. They develop emergency plans, coordinate resources and personnel, and work with government agencies, non-profits, and the public to ensure community safety. Their role involves risk assessment, conducting drills, and leading communication during crises to minimize damage and ensure a swift recovery.

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

To thrive as an Emergency Manager, you need expertise in emergency planning, risk assessment, crisis response, and typically a degree in emergency management or a related field. Familiarity with incident command systems (ICS), emergency management software, and often certifications like Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) are important. Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills help coordinate teams and convey critical information under pressure. These abilities ensure effective preparation for, response to, and recovery from disasters, minimizing harm to communities.

What are some common challenges faced by emergency managers when coordinating with multiple agencies during a crisis?

Emergency Managers frequently encounter the challenge of ensuring clear communication and coordination among various agencies, such as law enforcement, fire services, public health, and local government. Each organization may have its own protocols, priorities, and communication systems, which can create obstacles in decision-making and resource allocation during high-pressure situations. Building strong relationships and conducting regular interagency training exercises are essential to streamline collaboration and improve response effectiveness during actual emergencies.

What is the difference between Emergency Manager vs Emergency Coordinator?

AspectEmergency ManagerEmergency Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in emergency management, public safety, or related fields; certifications like FEMA's ICS or CEM are commonOften requires similar credentials, including emergency management certifications; may have additional specialized training depending on the organization
Work EnvironmentWorks in government agencies, large organizations, or disaster response agencies, managing preparedness and response plansOperates within organizations or agencies, coordinating emergency response efforts and ensuring compliance with protocols
Employer & IndustryPublic sector, government agencies, non-profits, and private companies involved in disaster preparednessGovernment agencies, hospitals, or large corporations involved in emergency response coordination

Emergency Managers and Emergency Coordinators share similar roles in disaster preparedness and response, often requiring comparable certifications and working within similar environments. While Emergency Managers typically oversee comprehensive emergency plans, Emergency Coordinators focus on implementing and coordinating specific response efforts within organizations.

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

The most popular types of Emergency jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Emergency Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Emergency Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Emergency Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Emergency Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Emergency Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,055 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Emergency Manager

City of Rialto, CA

Rialto, CA โ€ข On-site

$101K - $136K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary : $101,735.16 - $136,334.88 Annually
Location : Rialto, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 26-005
Department: FIRE EMERGENCY MEDICAL
Opening Date: 08/21/2026
Closing Date: 9/4/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Classification Definition
DEFINITION
Under general direction, administers and coordinates Citywide emergency management programs, projects, and services; ensures program compliance with pertinent federal, state, local, and City-driven priorities, mandates, objectives, laws, guidelines, and regulations; directs, coordinates, and monitors the work of assigned staff; performs a variety of technical, administrative, and programmatic work in support of assigned programs; and performs related duties, as assigned.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general direction from Fire Chief or assigned designee.
Essential Duties and Responsiblities
ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS--Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential Functions:
  1. Develops, coordinates, and manages the City's emergency operations plan in accordance with the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS) to provide for the use of resources and equipment of all appropriate governmental entities, commercial and industrial organizations, and special groups, bodies, and organizations as needed to support emergency or disaster operations.
  2. Prepares and administers the Disaster Preparedness Program Budget.
  3. Develops, coordinates, and manages emergency and disaster preparedness programs, training, activities, funds, and functional exercises to facilitate the readiness of City personnel and residents to respond to emergencies and disasters; responds to the City Emergency Operations Center in the event of an emergency or disaster within the City.
  4. Acts as a liaison with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure compliance and eligibility for state and federal funding.
  5. Initiates and prepares emergency management-related ordinances and resolutions for adoption by the City Council.
  6. Researches, reviews, and reports on new and/or proposed legislations pertaining to disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, recovery, and prevention.
  7. Researches, prepares, and monitors grant applications and reporting.
  8. Develops and coordinates public information, education, and related programs essential to facilitate basic self-protection of persons and the community; represents the City with the news media; prepares routine press releases, brochures, and other informational materials
  9. Ensures the City's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is in a constant state of readiness and all of its systems are operational and up to date. Maintains ability to activate the EOC at all levels for incidents and planned events.
  10. Develops and implements neighborhood-scale disaster preparedness and resilience programs focused on building local connectedness and engagement.
  11. Maintains knowledge of current trends, legislation, and best practices related to disaster and emergency preparedness.
  12. Supervises and directs the activities of staff including employee selection, work assignments, performance evaluations, employee development, disciplinary action, and complaint resolution.
  13. Performs related duties and responsibilities as required.

Minimum Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
  • Principles and practices of employee supervision, including work planning, assignment review and evaluation, discipline, and the training of staff in work procedures.
  • Principles and practices of leadership Principles and practices of emergency services program development and administration.
  • Methods and techniques of developing disaster preparedness programs.
  • Principles and practices of budget development and administration, and allocation of resources within budget constraints.
  • Organizational and management practices with respect to the development and evaluation of programs, policies, and operational needs for the Fire Department. Methods and techniques of writing complete, accurate, and concise reports.
  • Incident command systems.
  • Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures related to area of responsibility.
  • City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
  • Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
  • Proper English usage, grammar, punctuation and spelling.
Ability to:
  • Identify, develop, and implement goals, objectives, action plans, practices, policies, standard operating procedures, and work standards in collaboration with other departments.
  • Plan, organize, direct and coordinate emergency services functions and activities with City staff and other governmental, public, and private organizations.
  • Make sound, independent decisions in emergency situations.
  • Take actions necessary to ensure the readiness of City for emergency services.
  • Coordinate emergency operations and activities with other City departments and other agencies.
  • Identify and respond to community issues, concerns, and needs. Direct the establishment and maintenance of filing and recordkeeping systems.
  • Analyze situations and adopt a quick effective and responsible course of action.
  • Prepare and deliver training programs.
  • Prepare clear and concise reports, documentation, and correspondence.
  • Understand and interpret laws, ordinances, and departmental policies and procedures.
  • Effectively represent the department and the City in meetings with governmental agencies, community groups, various business, professional, and regulatory organizations, and in meetings with individuals.
  • Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
  • Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
  • Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
  • Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities.
Experience and Training Guidelines Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifyingA typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience: Four (4) years of emergency management experience, including one year of supervisory experience.
Training: Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree with major course work in emergency management or a related field.
Licenses and Certifications: Possession of a State of California driver's license. Certified Emergency Manager certification is highly desirable.
Click to view the fantastic benefits the City of Rialto provides.
01
Do you have a valid State of California Class C driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have experience applying for, securing, or managing grants?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have experience with hazard mitigation planning (such as a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan)?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have GIS or mapping experience (such as ArcGIS) for evacuation or hazard planning?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Have you worked in an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) during an activation or drill or have experience on an incident management team
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you have ICS/NIMS/FEMA training? Please check the box below if you have any of the following,
  • IS 700
  • IS 800
  • ICS 100
  • ICS 200
  • ICS 300
  • ICS 400

Required Question