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Emergency Manager Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

... emergency government operations. * Computer software consistent for this position. * Current office practices and procedures. Skilled in: * Organizational and time management to prioritize duties to ...

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Emergency Manager information

See Tennessee salary details

$34.9K

$81K

$132.1K

How much do emergency manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for emergency manager 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 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 Tennessee?

The most popular types of Emergency jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Emergency Manager jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Emergency Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Emergency Manager job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,980 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Office of Emergency Management Planning Officer

City of Memphis, TN

Memphis, TN • On-site

$94K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description


SALARY RANGE: $94,759.86 - $94,759.86
Works under the general direction of the OEM (Office of Emergency Management) Manager to develop, coordinate, and oversee emergency/disaster plans for City of Memphis. Oversees and provides work direction, assignment of duties, evaluation of work performance, and discipline of assigned Emergency Management Specialists. Provides prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery to mission areas. Coordinates the mission areas with various entities requesting assistance. Serves as a functional component of preparedness to direct the exercising, training, and equipping of first responders, private partners, and citizens. Assigns tasks according to mission assignments. Supervises the development and review of plans associated with prevention from, response to, recovery from, and mitigation of any natural and man-made disaster or major emergency. Attends and coordinates stakeholder meetings, workshops, seminars, and conferences. Acts as Planning Section Chief during Emergency Operations Center activations. Works with local schools and businesses to assist with emergency planning efforts. Works with other agencies of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) to manage incidents involving all threats and hazards to reduce loss of life, property, and harm to the environment. Ensures compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation. Travels and attends various meetings, businesses and work sites across the City. Administers and/or assists with presentations, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) classes. Conducts and coordinates planning meetings. Manages grant preparation and submission for the division. Conducts training and exercise
programs.
Responsibilities
OTHER FUNCTIONS:
1. Assumes responsibilities of OEM Manager as necessary.
2. Performs additional functions (essential or otherwise) which may be assigned.
TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Requires ability to communicate information to staff and general public, including the media, under stressful conditions during emergency situations. Requires the ability to operate radio console, telephone, and computer. Requires lifting objects (such as emergency equipment) weighing up to 50 lbs. Must be able to operate an automobile and/or emergency vehicle.
TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is performed in a highly secured office work area. Requires working from mobile unit or outdoors in all types of weather conditions during emergency and simulated emergency situations. Requires the ability to travel throughout the city, county, state, and country for work-related training sessions and meetings. Requires travel throughout the City for emergency-related site visits and situations. Oversees emergency management activities for the City of Memphis twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week operation.
Qualifications
High school diploma and eight (8) years in emergency management or firefighting activities, or any combination of experience and training which enables one to perform the essential job functions. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license as a condition of continued employment.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Requires being on-call seven (7) days a week, twenty-four (24) hours a day. Must complete the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Independent Home Study Courses and Professional Development Series including IS2200 Intermediate Emergency Operations Center Functions and Hazardous Materials Awareness by the end of one (1) year as a condition of continued employment. Must complete Memphis Fire Department (MFD) Tier 1 Professional Development within one (1) year and any MFD or city mandated training as required. Must continue to satisfy training requirements as determined by federal or state authorities, including certification programs which may be developed as a condition of continued employment.