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Emergency Operation Center Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$86K/yr

This position will also participate in the ADHS Health Emergency Operation Center during real-world and exercises situations to support emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Job ...

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How much do emergency operation center jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for emergency operation center in the United States is $20.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Emergency Operation Center vs Emergency Dispatcher?

AspectEmergency Operation CenterEmergency Dispatcher
CredentialsVaries; often includes emergency management training, certifications in incident commandEmergency medical or fire dispatch certifications, CPR, and communication training
Work EnvironmentCommand centers during emergencies, coordinating response effortsCall centers, dispatching emergency services via phone or radio
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, emergency management agenciesPublic safety agencies, fire departments, police departments

Emergency Operation Centers and Emergency Dispatchers both play vital roles in emergency response. While EOCs coordinate overall incident management, dispatchers handle immediate communication and dispatch of responders. Understanding their distinct functions helps clarify their importance in public safety.

Which emergency job pays the most?

In emergency operations, senior roles such as Emergency Operations Center Director or Incident Commander typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually depending on experience and location. These positions require extensive leadership skills, certifications, and experience managing large-scale emergencies or disasters.

What are the typical responsibilities of professionals working in an Emergency Operation Center (EOC) during a crisis?

Professionals in an Emergency Operation Center (EOC) play a vital role in coordinating response efforts during emergencies such as natural disasters, public health crises, or large-scale accidents. Their daily responsibilities often include monitoring real-time information, managing communication between multiple agencies, allocating resources, and maintaining detailed incident logs. EOC staff work closely with first responders, government officials, and community partners to ensure that information flows efficiently and decisions are made quickly. The work environment is typically high-pressure and fast-paced, requiring strong teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to remain calm under stress.

What is an Emergency Operations Center (EOC)?

An Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is a centralized command facility responsible for coordinating emergency response and disaster management activities during crises such as natural disasters, large-scale accidents, or public health emergencies. It brings together representatives from various agencies and organizations to share information, make decisions, and allocate resources efficiently. The EOC plays a crucial role in ensuring a coordinated response, maintaining situational awareness, and supporting field operations to protect communities and restore normalcy as quickly as possible.

What's the average salary for TDEM positions?

Emergency Operation Center (EOC) positions, including roles within the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), typically have salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and specific job responsibilities. Higher-level roles such as emergency managers or coordinators may earn more, especially with certifications like ICS or NIMS. Salaries can vary based on location and agency budget.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Specialist, you need expertise in emergency management principles, incident response protocols, and typically a background in public safety or crisis management. Familiarity with emergency management software (such as WebEOC), GIS systems, and certifications like FEMA’s ICS/NIMS are commonly required. Strong decision-making, communication, and teamwork skills help EOC Specialists coordinate effectively under pressure. These skills are vital for ensuring efficient response, resource allocation, and public safety during critical incidents.

What does an emergency operations center do?

An Emergency Operations Center (EOC) coordinates response efforts during emergencies by managing resources, disseminating information, and supporting field responders. EOC staff analyze data, develop plans, and communicate with agencies to ensure an organized and effective response to disasters or crises.

Is it hard to get hired by FEMA?

Getting hired by FEMA for an Emergency Operation Center role can be competitive, often requiring relevant experience, security clearances, and sometimes specialized certifications. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational, communication, and crisis management skills, and be prepared for a thorough application process that includes background checks and assessments.
More about Emergency Operation Center jobs
What job categories do people searching Emergency Operation Center jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Emergency Operation Center jobs are:
Infographic showing various Emergency Operation Center job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,441 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Executive Director of Emergency Management & Planning

Executive Director of Emergency Management & Planning

UNC-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Information
Department Emergency Mgt and Planning-230120 Career Area Environment, Health and Safety Posting Open Date 07/24/2026 Application Deadline 08/24/2026 Open Until Filled No Position Type Permanent Staff (EHRA NF) Working Title Executive Director of Emergency Management & Planning Appointment Type EHRA Non-Faculty Position Number 01000824 Vacancy ID NF0009920 Full Time/Part Time Full-Time Permanent FTE 1 Hours per week 40 Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range Proposed Start Date 10/05/2026
Position Information
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.
One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The Office of Emergency Management and Planning is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining disaster planning and preparedness for the University performed within the five mission areas of emergency management (prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery) to provide for the safety and well-being of all university stakeholders. This includes comprehensive planning, training, and exercise programs aimed to enhance the university's ability to manage large-scale and/or multi-agency incidents or events that affect the UNC campus.
Position Summary
The Executive Director of Emergency Management and Planning is a senior-level position that is responsible for directing and coordinating disaster planning and preparedness for the University. This position develops, implements, and coordinates the University's Emergency Plan; serves as primary emergency management liaison with campus, local, state, and federal officials; trains top-level administrators on disaster response and compliance; coordinates and serves as expert on funding issues related to disasters; oversees the University's emergency communications systems; and maintains the campus Emergency Operation Center (EOC). This position reports to the Associate Vice Chancellor of Campus Safety and Risk Management. 
Primary duties include: (1) Emergency Planning and Strategy: Develop, implement, and coordinate the University Emergency Plan in conjunction with other division and campus personnel. Streamline emergency planning efforts across University departments and develop a single point of reference for dissemination of this information. Revise and continually maintain the campus Emergency Plan, an all-hazards plan used in the event of a natural disaster or human-made incident, ensuring that it meets National Incident Management System (NIMS) standards. Collaborate with University Emergency Response Officials (ERO) to maintain current contact information and revise ERO policies and procedures as needed. Manage and administer the Tar Heel Mission Ready program, which is the University's Continuity of Operations Plan to preserve maximum possible service levels during campus emergencies. (2) Campus Liaison and Outreach: Provide briefings and input to University leadership and key designated officials on emergency planning and disaster events. Serve as the primary campus representative to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); coordinate FEMA disaster relief applications by the campus. Represent the University in negotiations and communications with federal, state, and local officials on emergency matters; serve as the University's primary representative on the Orange County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC). (3) Training and Compliance: Develop training for top-level administrators on campus, including training in responsibilities of disaster response for policy makers and key management staff. (4) Systems Oversight: Serve as the acknowledged campus expert on emergency disaster response operations, and be available at all times. Oversee the University's emergency communication system, Alert Carolina. (5) Emergency Operations: Maintain the campus Emergency Operation Center (EOC), ensuring the proper functioning of all electrical equipment and storage of adequate supplies, and assist as needed with the maintenance of the Mobile Command Center to ensure its field readiness at all times.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent) with three years or greater of related professional experience; for candidates demonstrating comparable professional backgrounds, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and five years or greater of relevant experience in substitution.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Seven (7) years of progressively responsible emergency management experience, including at least three (3) years of supervisory and program management experience. 
Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of emergency management programs including developing response plans; coordinating manpower, resources, and efforts of numerous departments, agencies and services; providing training; and performing related administrative functions. Thorough knowledge of the laws, ordinances, standards, and regulations pertaining to the essential duties and responsibilities of the position. Ability to maintain cooperative and effective relationships with intra- and interdepartmental personnel, as well as any external entities with which position interacts. Ability to use Microsoft Office software.
This position is designated as a Mandatory Employee. The position must be available on short notice to respond to emergency situations. During activation of the EOC, relocation or visits to emergency or disaster sites on campus may be required during response and recovery operations. Must be available for call-back during significant emergencies and disasters.
Employee must reside within 30 miles of UNC Chapel Hill main campus or ability to meet this requirement within six months of hire.
Must have a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record at the time of hire.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
FEMA or other disaster training is desirable. The ideal candidate will be financially and technologically savvy, innovative, customer-focused, and a collaborative leader. 
Certifications and Special Requirements:
* FEMA Professional Development Series within three months of employment.
* FEMA HSEEP Course completion within one year of employment.
* Formal adult instructor training (40 hour minimum) through accredited agency/institution accepted by NC Division of Emergency Management (or equivalent EM entity of another state), or ability to obtain this certification within two years of employment.
* Incident Command System (ICS) 100 - 400 Certification, or ability to obtain this certification within one year of employment. 
* Certified Master Exercise Practitioner or ability to obtain certification within two years of employment.
* Certification as an Executive Emergency Manager by the North Carolina Emergency Management Certification Program (or equivalent by other state EM program), or ability to obtain this certification within two years of employment. Certified Emergency Manager status through IAEM exempts this requirement.
Other qualifications include: Strong leadership skills; ability to integrate strategies and network and coordinate services with a broad range of participants; understanding of the Incident Command System, the National Incident Management System, legal concepts, and interpretations relative to emergency operations; familiarity with FEMA application and documentation procedures; experience leading knowledgeable subject matter experts, and developing staff; experience leading change management, both from an organizational/structural and technical/system perspective; strong organizational skills; exceptional written, oral, and presentation skills; and coalition building and collaboration skills.
This position requires on-call work and the ability to be available on short notice for emergency situations. During activation of the Emergency Operation Center, relocation or visits to emergency or disaster sites on campus may be required during response and recovery operations.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
N/A
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority in accordance with the Clery Act. This position will be required to report Clery crimes to the Clery Compliance Manager and complete annual training about reporting responsibilities.

Special Instructions Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/322957
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title Lisa Daley, HR Consultant Department Contact Telephone or Email lisa.daley@unc.edu Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789