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Emergency Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Emergency Manager information

See California salary details

$38K

$88.1K

$143.6K

How much do emergency manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 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 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 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,055 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

$129K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Description THE POSITION North Marin Water District (NMWD) is excited to introduce its new Safety & Emergency Manager role. Under general direction from the Director of Operations, this position will provide leadership and oversight of the District's safety, emergency preparedness, and regulatory compliance programs. Responsibilities include developing and administering occupational and industrial safety initiatives, coordinating emergency response planning, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and serving as the District's representative in local and regional safety and emergency management collaborations.

This is a single staffed position and has no direct reports. ABOUT US NMWD is an independent special district formed under Division 12 of the California Water Code (County Water Districts) and provides potable water, recycled water, and wastewater services to more than 65,000 customers in Marin County and a portion of southern Sonoma County. The District was formed in 1948 and has a five-member Board of Directors, elected by Division for 4-year terms.

These water and wastewater services are provided through four separate enterprises: Novato Water, Novato Recycled Water, the West Marin Water systems, and the Oceana Marin wastewater system. NMWD and the Marin Municipal Water District (MMWD) represent the two primary water providers in Marin County, with MMWD as the larger agency serving approximately three times the number of customers. Organization NMWD has 58 Full-Time employees organized into five departments consisting of Administrative Services, Utilities, Engineering, Operations and Water Resources.

In addition to the General Manager, there are three other staff members appointed by the Board of Directors: The Director of Administrative Services/Auditor-Controller, who heads the Administrative Services Department, the Assistant GM/Director of Engineering that heads the Engineering Department and the Executive Assistant/District Secretary. The Departments work very collaboratively to ensure that all NMWD assets are functional, efficient, and maintained or replaced per industry standards and that all NMWD administration and operations comply with local, state and federal requirements. In 2025, NMWD staff, with the support of the Board of Directors, developed an updated five-year Strategic Plan for 2025-2030.

The planning process included a customer survey, an all-staff survey, and one-on-one interviews with selected staff members, senior staff, and members of the Board of Directors. WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR North Marin Water District is seeking a highly skilled and motivated professional to lead and support the District's safety, emergency preparedness, and resiliency efforts. The ideal candidate will have the ability to develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive plans, protocols, training programs, and response procedures to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from a wide range of emergencies and disasters.

We are looking for an experienced water industry professional with strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills, as well as demonstrated critical thinking and creative problem-solving abilities. The successful candidate will possess expertise in the development, implementation, and administration of occupational and industrial safety programs, with a thorough understanding of applicable state and federal safety regulations. This individual will also serve as the District's representative in local and regional safety, emergency management, and mutual aid programs, fostering collaboration with key stakeholders and partner agencies.

If you are passionate about protecting employees, ensuring organizational preparedness, and promoting a culture of safety, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL DUTIES (may include but are not limited to the following) Plans, organizes, administers, and oversees a wide range of safety and emergency management services in compliance with District policy. Researches, analyzes and develops recommendations on emergency management and safety-related issues.

Monitors and analyzes laws and pending legislation which impact District operations. Stays current of new trends and innovations in the field of safety and emergency management, and continually monitors the District's compliance with federal and state laws and regulations. Performs policy analysis on a wide range of programs, District procedures, and services.

Receives, researches and prepares responses to correspondence. maintains records and database of employee safety and emergency response training. Determines employee safety and emergency response training needs.

Delivers presentations to various groups, inside and outside the agency. Represents the District to outside agencies and organizations. Participates in outside community and professional groups and committees.

Represents the District in safety and emergency response inspections. Develops, updates, and implements legally compliant district-wide safety programs and training. Coordinates all safety related testing and medical examinations.

Conducts periodic inspections of facilities and operations to identify safety hazards. Investigates accidents and injuries, prepares and submits required reports. Recommends corrective actions to potentially hazardous work methods to comply with safety regulations and prevent injuries.

Manages regularly scheduled safety meetings. Acts as the lead of the District Safety Committee. Coordinates with the Director of Operations, and Treatment and Distribution Supervisor, to update and administer the District's Chlorine System Risk Management Plan at Stafford Lake Water Treatment Plant.

Manages emergency response and recovery efforts in response to all types of emergencies; Coordinates with emergency responders and outside agencies in the event of an emergency. Develops policies to be followed in an emergency or natural disaster. Conducts emergency response assessments to evaluate disaster preparedness and make recommendations to improve efficiency and readiness.

Develops and implements a multi-year Training and Exercise Plan that incorporates the District's Emergency Response Plan (ERP) and Stafford Dam Emergency Action Plan (EAP) elements. Identifies threats, risks, hazards, and vulnerabilities to District facilities and infrastructure in coordination with the Engineering, Utilities, Operations departments. Coordinates with Director of Operations to update, administer and implement the District's ERP.

Coordinates with District departments and leads periodic updates to the District's Annex in the Marin County Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). Reviews, updates, and submits Hazardous Materials Business Plans (HMBPs) for all District facilities that store hazardous materials through the California Environmental Reporting System (CERS). OTHER DUTIES Assists in implementing safety and emergency response work documentation through Asset Management work orders.

May assist District management with safety-related issues such as physical security, ergonomics, and worker's compensation investigations. Minimum Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS (The following minimum qualifications are necessary for entry into the class): Education/Experience Sufficient education and experience in safety and emergency management to perform the duties of the Safety and Emergency Manager. Minimum Qualifications - Possession of a high school diploma, or equivalent, supplemented with relevant specialized training in safety management (OSHA courses) and/or emergency management (FEMA, NIMS, SEMS courses) and five (5) years' experience in the water, wastewater or utilities industries.

Desired Qualifications -Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in industrial engineering, safety engineering, occupational health, business administration or related field; or full-time professional work experience in workplace safety which includes seven (7) years' experience in water, wastewater or utilities. Knowledge/Skill/Ability (The ideal candidate will have the knowledge of and ability to): Knowledge of: The roles and responsibilities of emergency management including mitigation & prevention, preparedness, response and recovery phases; Cal/OSHA and Fed/OSHA regulations and requirements; current safety practices, construction safety orders, mandates and relevant trends related to injury and illness prevention; Incident command systems and incident management; The fundamentals of employee training; Conditions that lead to major emergencies; Principles and practices of program management; Incident investigation practices; cybersecurity threats. Ability to: Evaluate and update policies and procedures; Interpret laws and regulations related to safety and emergency management; Provide current and compliant safety training to employees on a variety of topics; Evaluate specific jobs to identify specific job hazards; Exercise initiative, good judgment, tact, and discretion, as well as excellent interpersonal skills; Maintain a variety of sophisticated spreadsheets and accurate records; Problem solve and communicate effectively; manage and complete a variety of tasks and assignments concurrently; Analyze, evaluate and assess program effectiveness; Work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines; Apply a high degree of independent judgment; Read and interpret complex and often conflicting plans, specifications, laws, regulations, rules and policies; Prepare clear/concise written reports, memoranda, procedures and correspondence; Speak clearly, concisely, and give public presentations; Effectively train others in front of an audience; Establish and maintain productive work relationships with a variety of people contacted in the course of work.

License/Certificate Possession of a valid DMV Class C California driver's license. Possession of a California Drinking Water Operator Certification Program (DWOCP) Grade D2 Water Distribution Operator Certificate or possession of a DWOCP Grade T2 Water Treatment Operator Certificate. Possession of a DWOCP Water Treatment Operator T3 or higher, or possession of a DWOCP Water Distribution Operator D3 or higher is desired but not required.

Supplemental Information WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS This position requires the following working conditions and physical requirements Mobility: Ability to work in an office setting with prolonged periods of sitting, standing, twisting, bending, and reaching. Fieldwork includes walking on various surfaces, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, turning, lifting, climbing, twisting, and reaching. Manual Dexterity: Frequent use of both hands for simple and power grasping, fine manipulation, and coordinated movements.

Tasks may involve operating office and field equipment, specialized instruments, and tools, requiring repetitive arm/hand movements and coordination of multiple limbs. Physical Activities: Ability to use arms above the shoulder, walk on level and slippery surfaces, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, and crouch. Works outdoors in all weather conditions, climbing ladders, working in confined spaces.

Computer Use: Proficiency in retrieving data using a computer keyboard. Vision: Near and far vision for visual checks of facilities, reading plans, reports, and using a computer. Sensory Abilities: Use of smell and hearing to detect odors and mechanical equipment conditions.

Hazard Exposure: Potential exposure to electrical and mechanical hazards, hazardous chemicals, and contaminants. Work around moving equipment. Driving: Ability to drive a vehicle, including a four-wheel drive on dirt roads in varying weather and road conditions.

Work hours: Include various evening meetings including regularly scheduled Board meetings; overtime, weekends, evenings, and holidays as required to accommodate the District's needs. COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS The Annual salary is $129,012 - 157,056. Actual starting salary will depend on qualifications and experience.

NMWD offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including: CalPERS retirement 2.5% at 55 formula. (If new to CalPERS on or after January 1, 2013 or not from an agency with reciprocity with CalPERS, the formula is 2% at 62 by pension reform law.) The District pays up to 85% of monthly medical insurance premiums and covers 100% of dental and vision insurance premiums. Coverage is provided for employees and their eligible family members

Deferred compensation (457(b)) matches up to 1% of the annual salary. Work schedule is a standard 40-hour per week schedule and in addition may include various evening meetings; overtime, weekends, evenings, and holidays as required to accommodate the District's needs. District paid life insurance.

Educational reimbursement and employee assisted housing program available after completing probationary period. For more information on benefits see: https://nmwd.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2024-NMWD-Benefit-Summary-FINAL-1.pdf HOW TO APPLY: APPLICATION SUBMISSIONS REQUIRE THE SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTINNAIRE BE COMPLETED Reponses to supplemental questions will be used in assessing qualifications. Incomplete and/or responses with state "See Resume" or "See Application" will be considered insufficient

The selection procedure will consist of the following: Review of all Application & Supplemental Questionnaires . Each application and supplemental questionnaire will be thoroughly evaluated for satisfaction of qualifications and relevance of educational coursework, training, experience, knowledge, and abilities that relate to this position. Candidates possessing the most appropriate job-related qualifications may be forwarded for consideration to the department head for selection to interview.

Applications will be reviewed after the application closing date of September 18, 2026. We will reach out to those candidates that will move forward in the interview process within 3 weeks after the application closing date. Applicants must ensure that email from NMWD is not blocked on their computer by a spam filter.

To prevent blocking, applicants should set up their email to accept @NMWD.com mail. Applicants that are not selected to move forward in the interview process will also be notified within this 3 week period. We are anticipating beginning interviews beginning the week of October 19th and are allowing up to 8 weeks for first and second round interviews to take place

Depending upon schedules, this window of time may be shortened and/or extended. Once a contingent offer of employment has been made, successful completion of a background, drug and physical preem...