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Emergency Preparedness Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Emergency Preparedness Analyst Position Type:Professional / Unclassified Department:LSUAM FA - CSPER - Emergency Preparedness (Michael Antoine (00076205) (Inherited)) Work Location:0140 Charles E.

$38.20 - $57.30/hr

Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Location: Christ Medical Center; Oak Lawn, IL. Full Time; 1st Shift ~Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES * Works closely with RHCC Region's Hospitals ...

Emergency Preparedness Analyst Position Type:Professional / Unclassified Department:LSUAM FA - CSPER - Emergency Preparedness (Michael Antoine (00076205) (Inherited)) Work Location:0140 Charles E.

Emergency Preparedness Analyst Position Type:Professional / Unclassified Department:LSUAM FA - CSPER - Emergency Preparedness (Michael Antoine (00076205) (Inherited)) Work Location:0140 Charles E.

Duties Description The Emergency Management Specialist plays a key role in developing, coordinating, and implementing emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation programs for SUNY ...

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Emergency Preparedness information

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$37K

$93.7K

$147.5K

How much do emergency preparedness jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for emergency preparedness in the United States is $93,676.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is emergency preparedness?

Emergency preparedness refers to the planning, procedures, and training put in place to ensure individuals, organizations, and communities can effectively respond to and recover from emergencies and disasters. This includes creating emergency plans, conducting drills, assembling supplies, and coordinating with local agencies. The goal is to minimize harm, protect lives and property, and ensure a swift recovery when unexpected events such as natural disasters, pandemics, or other crises occur.

Is it hard to get hired by FEMA?

Getting hired by FEMA for emergency preparedness roles can be competitive, often requiring relevant experience, education, and security clearances. Candidates typically need strong organizational skills, knowledge of emergency management protocols, and sometimes certifications like ICS or NIMS. The hiring process involves multiple steps, including assessments and background checks.

What is the difference between Emergency Preparedness vs Emergency Management?

AspectEmergency PreparednessEmergency Management
FocusPlanning and training to prepare for emergenciesCoordinating response and recovery efforts during and after emergencies
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, CERT, ICS certificationsICS, NIMS, FEMA certifications
Work EnvironmentCommunity, corporate, or government settings focusing on preparedness activitiesOperational response teams, government agencies, disaster response scenarios

Emergency Preparedness involves developing plans and training to ensure readiness for emergencies, while Emergency Management encompasses the overall coordination, response, and recovery efforts during and after emergencies. Both roles often collaborate but focus on different stages of disaster management.

What Are Emergency Preparedness Jobs?

Emergency preparedness jobs focus on helping coordinate public safety efforts during a disaster or another crisis. These roles can take place at a variety of levels, from managing the evacuation of a hospital to overseeing the response to a major earthquake, wildfire, or hurricane. Many emergency preparedness jobs are found with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), but organizations in sensitive areas often hire people to create preparedness plans, ensure staff are trained, and verify that all procedures follow relevant state and federal regulations. The duties of an emergency preparedness job vary based on where you work and the area or site you are expected to manage. Individual buildings may only have one or two employees, while the city, county, state, and federal emergency response teams typically work as part of larger crews. Other public safety groups, such as law enforcement, often support emergency preparedness in the community and may have jobs specifically dedicated to education and outreach.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Emergency Preparedness, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Emergency Preparedness often encounter challenges such as coordinating across multiple departments, ensuring up-to-date training, and adapting plans to evolving risks. Effective communication and regular drills are essential to overcoming these obstacles. Additionally, building strong relationships with local agencies and stakeholders helps streamline response efforts and ensures everyone is aligned during an emergency. Staying proactive with continuous education and scenario planning can also make a significant difference in preparedness and response effectiveness.

Is disaster relief a good career?

Disaster relief is a vital part of emergency preparedness careers, involving providing aid and support during emergencies such as natural disasters. It often requires strong communication, problem-solving skills, and relevant certifications like CPR or emergency management training. The field can be rewarding but also demanding, with work environments that may be unpredictable and stressful.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Emergency Preparedness, and why are they important?

To thrive in Emergency Preparedness, you need a strong background in risk assessment, crisis management, emergency planning, and typically a degree in emergency management, public health, or a related field. Familiarity with incident command systems (ICS), emergency operations software, and certifications like FEMA’s Professional Development Series are commonly required. Excellent communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills are vital for coordinating response efforts and working with diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure effective planning, rapid response, and community resilience during disasters or emergencies.

How to get a job in emergency preparedness?

To pursue a career in emergency preparedness, candidates typically need a background in public safety, emergency management, or related fields, along with relevant certifications such as FEMA's Emergency Management Institute courses. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or entry-level positions in emergency services can also improve job prospects. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential in this field.

Which emergency job pays the most?

In emergency preparedness, high-paying roles include emergency management directors and disaster recovery managers, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced certifications, leadership skills, and experience in coordinating large-scale responses and planning efforts.
What cities are hiring for Emergency Preparedness jobs? Cities with the most Emergency Preparedness job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Emergency Preparedness jobs? The most popular types of Emergency Preparedness jobs are:
What states have the most Emergency Preparedness jobs? States with the most job openings for Emergency Preparedness jobs include:
Infographic showing various Emergency Preparedness job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,676 per year, or $45 per hour.
Emergency Preparedness Manager

Emergency Preparedness Manager

City of Independence, Missouri

Independence, MO • On-site

$82K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Under the general supervision of the Fire Chief and/or Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, this position performs a variety of managerial duties related to planning, developing, and coordinating the "All-Hazard" planning efforts of the Emergency Preparedness Division. Coordinates the City's All-Hazard planning activities with those of the County, State and Federal governments, and other emergency services organizations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSPerforms some or all of the following:
Emergency Response Management: Coordinates all components (fire, police, emergency, medical service, public works, volunteers, and groups contributing to the management of emergencies) of the Emergency Management System in the City; keeps Fire Chief/Emergency Preparedness Coordinator informed on emergency management activities at all times; develops and maintains redundant/emergency communications system; develops and maintains all plans, systems, and standard operating procedures required to plan, prepare, mitigate, respond, and recover from manmade or natural disasters.
Organizes and oversees the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) site from which key officials can direct and control operations during an emergency; establishes and maintains an emergency public information system.
Communications & Training Functions: Prepares and presents training programs targeting city workforce, community organizations and the general public.
Coordinates the planning, assists with the implementation and evaluation of emergency preparedness exercises and drills, and assures all required reports are completed.
Develops and delivers or coordinates the delivery of staff training in emergency operations processes and procedures; coordinates with various local, state, and federal entities; coordinates disaster recovery operations; negotiates pre-disaster and post-disaster assistance and support agreements; may coordinate emergency preparedness volunteer programs.
Inter/Intra Agency Assistance: Works closely on a cooperative basis with departments of local governments and community organizations in developing emergency management plans and capabilities; Inventories staffing and other resources from governmental and private sector sources that may be available during an emergency.
Assists in the development of mutual aid or cooperative assistance agreements to provide needed services, equipment, or other resources in the event of an emergency; identifies resource deficiencies and works with appropriate officials to correct deficiencies; develops public education programs.
Works closely and cooperatively with the Eastern Jackson County Emergency Communications Services as the City's liaison with that group to establish and maintain a storm spotter's network and emergency communications capability.
Serves on MARC and other area Committees pertinent to Emergency Preparedness matters and issues as assigned by the Fire Chief/Emergency Preparedness Coordinator.
Promotion & Education: Develops a training, testing, and exercise program for all phases of disaster management; conduct and maintain current Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA) resource capabilities and gap analysis; establishes and maintains a shelter and reception and care system.
Revenue & Funding: Prepares and monitors annual budget for emergency management; secures technical and financial assistance available through the state and federal programs, including grant opportunities.
Performs related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in Emergency Management, Emergency Administration and Planning, Public Administration, Business Administration, Fire or Police Science;
AND
Four (4) years of experience in emergency management, first response discipline, public health, military or utility industry and/or other related field performing above and related duties;
OR
An equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Thorough knowledge of principles and practices of public administration/management with an emphasis on emergency preparedness and emergency operations functions; principles of incident management systems; multi-band radio communications, systems, and equipment; methodology for developing and implementing emergency management training and exercising programs; governmental budgeting principles and practices; administrative principles and practices including planning, organizing, supervising, directing, coordinating, budgeting, goal setting, program management, report writing; record keeping, data collection, statistical analysis, report writing, grant management, and records management; applicable local, state, and federal rules and regulations governing emergency management; correct English usage, including spelling, grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary; standard business arithmetic, including percentages and decimals; administration of staff and activities, either directly or through subordinate supervision. Computer applications related to work ; technical aspects of All-Hazard planning processes and techniques, record keeping techniques; City's organization, operations, policies and procedures; applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, regulations and procedures governing emergency preparedness operations and management; city geography and boundaries; governmental operations and procedures related to the inter-agency cooperation necessary to deal with common emergencies, disasters and hazards; general administrative practices related to budget development and grant application processes; operational characteristics, services and activities of a comprehensive emergency management program; principles, methods, and techniques used in emergency preparedness and disaster relief; local emergency management planning requirements; principles and practices of data collection, research techniques and statistical reporting; grant writing practices and procedures; English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation, vocabulary, composition and mathematics; the Incident Command System (ICS), National Incident Management System (NIMS), and other federal and state emergency management/preparedness policies; all phases and programs of Emergency Management; SEMA and FEMA, including Individual Assistance Program, Public Assistance Program, Hazard Mitigation Program, reporting protocols and deadlines; basic or advanced volunteer administration principles and practices.
Skill in interpersonal relations and cooperative problem-solving; maximizing emergency preparedness planning capabilities communicating clearly and effectively with others, orally and in writing; using tact, discretion, initiative and independent judgment within established guidelines; dealing courteously and diplomatically with the general public.
Ability to maintain confidentiality in handling all matters; plan, organize, direct, and coordinate the work of subordinate staff personnel; delegate authority and responsibility; understand and carry out oral and written instructions, giving close attention to detail and accuracy. Ability to speak effectively before employees or public groups and respond to questions; read, analyze and interpret professional periodicals and journals, technical procedures and government regulations; compute ratios and percentages and interpret bar graphs; work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference; solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists; define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions; coordinate activities within and between the various City Departments, regional partners and stakeholders, State and Federal agencies, as well as with other entities and agencies; effectively delivering emergency planning, preparedness and response training to a variety of audiences; utilize modern technology and office procedures and methods, computer equipment and computer software necessary to perform required duties; record keeping, data collection, statistical analysis, report writing, grant management, and records management;
Special Qualifications: (depending on area of assignment)
Must complete Emergency Management coursework titled Principles of Emergency Management.
Must complete Federal Emergency Management Institute's Professional Development Series within one year of hire.
Must possess a valid state driver's license with excellent driving record and must be insurable.
Must complete required NIMS level training within the first six months of hire.
Work Environment:
While performing the essential functions of this job the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, handle or feel, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, and talk or hear. Incumbent must be able to stay awake for extended periods of time; work for extended periods of time; work irregular hours; and be available to respond during all hours of the day and night in all types of weather conditions. While performing the essential functions of this job the employee is occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. While performing the essential functions of this position, the employee is frequently exposed to wet or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, outdoor weather conditions, extreme cold, and extreme heat and occasionally exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals. The incumbent's working conditions are typically moderately quiet unless on an emergency scene, then the working conditions are typically loud. Working time may require irregular hours.
Background Check
Drug Testing
In addition to the application, testing and/or examinations may be required for further consideration on this position.
Position open until filled. For more information, please email the Independence Fire Department at fireonline@indepmo.org.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The City of Independence is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. The City of Independence is a background screening, drug-free workplace.
The City of Independence provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation in order to apply for a job, please submit your request to humanresources@indepmo.org.
Disclaimer: The above statements describe the general nature, level, and type of work performed by the incumbent(s) assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, demands, and skills required of personnel so classified. Job descriptions are not intended to and do not imply or create any employment, compensation, or contract rights to any person or persons. Management reserves the right to add, delete, or modify any and/or all provisions of this description at any time as needed without notice. This job description supersedes earlier versions.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER - BILINGUAL SKILLS PREFERRED