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Entry Level Disaster Response Jobs in Gurnee, IL

Entry Level Disaster Response information

See Gurnee, IL salary details

$28.3K

$46.9K

$59K

How much do entry level disaster response jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level disaster response in Gurnee, IL is $46,851.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,200.00 and $50,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level disaster response job?

Entry Level Disaster Response jobs involve assisting with emergency relief efforts after natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, or wildfires. Workers in these roles help with tasks like setting up shelters, distributing supplies, conducting damage assessments, and supporting affected communities. These positions often require teamwork, adaptability, and a willingness to work in challenging environments. No prior disaster response experience is typically required, but training is usually provided on the job. Entry-level roles are a great way to gain experience in emergency management and humanitarian work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level disaster response professional?

To thrive in an Entry Level Disaster Response role, you need basic emergency management knowledge, physical fitness, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with communication devices, incident command systems, and FEMA certifications like ICS-100 or NIMS is typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this position. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure effective coordination, safety, and timely assistance during emergency situations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level disaster response professionals, and how can they prepare for them?

Entry-level disaster response professionals often face challenges such as rapidly changing environments, long and unpredictable hours, and emotionally taxing situations. Adapting quickly to new protocols, working as part of a multidisciplinary team, and maintaining resilience under pressure are crucial. Preparation can include developing strong communication skills, staying physically fit, and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues. Being proactive about self-care and familiarizing oneself with emergency procedures also helps in managing these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Entry Level Disaster Response vs Entry Level Emergency Management?

AspectEntry Level Disaster ResponseEntry Level Emergency Management
Required CertificationsBasic First Aid, CPR, Disaster Response TrainingEmergency Management Certification (e.g., ICS, FEMA courses)
Work EnvironmentFieldwork during disasters, on-site responseOffice settings, planning, coordination roles
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, NGOs, disaster relief organizationsGovernment agencies, private sector, public safety organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Disaster Response focuses on immediate field actions during disasters, requiring hands-on skills and certifications like First Aid. Entry Level Emergency Management involves planning, coordination, and preparedness activities, often requiring FEMA or ICS training. Both roles are vital in disaster scenarios but differ in work environment and responsibilities.

What cities near Gurnee, IL are hiring for Entry Level Disaster Response jobs?

Cities near Gurnee, IL with the most Entry Level Disaster Response job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Disaster Response job openings in Gurnee, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,851 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Territorial Disaster Training Coordinator

The Salvation Army

Hoffman Estates, IL

$69K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

598th of 783 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Help Prepare Teams to Respond When Disaster Strikes

The Salvation Army is seeking a Territorial Disaster Training Coordinator to strengthen disaster response readiness across the Central Territory. This role trains and mentors staff and volunteers, coordinates disaster training programs, develops resources, and builds a network of qualified trainers. If you're passionate about emergency response, teaching, and serving communities in times of need, we invite you to join our mission.

Compensation Range:$69,544 to $86,930/annually, based onexperience

The Salvation Army Mission:

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Job Objective:

The Territorial Disaster Training Coordinator enhances The Salvation Army Central Territory's disaster response readiness and capacity by providing training and mentoring of TSA staff and volunteers to compassionately and effectively serve people and communities affected by natural and man-made disasters.

Essential Functions:

This job description should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions and requirements of the position. Other job-related responsibilities and tasks may be assigned. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

  • Motivates, encourages, trains, and mentors Salvation Army staff and volunteers to obtain competency to fill key positions and utilize their expertise and gifts within emergency disaster operations.
  • Provides orientation for all new Divisional Training Coordinators and provides resources and on-going training as needed or requested.
  • Develops and maintains a cadre of volunteer trainers with up-to-date certifications to teach EDS and ESC basic and advanced courses and reasonably available to travel to train courses within the Central Territory.
  • Promotes disaster training for all IC team functions - with an emphasis on cross-training of individuals to be proficient with tasks associated with multiple IC positions as needed during deployments in the field.
  • Supervises the reporting of all training activities throughout the Central Territory.
  • Develops and facilitates an annual Territorial EDS/ESC Training Plan with input and participation from Divisional EDS Directors.
  • Coordinates Divisional, National and International Salvation Army Salvation Army Salvation Army EDS Conferences and training opportunities and promotes Central Territory participation wherever possible and practical.
  • Assists the Territorial Disaster Director in coordinating credentialing, CEUs, and meeting advanced degree requirements of educational partners.
  • Assists the Territorial Disaster Director, at his/her discretion, in representing the Central Territory on national educational review committees, curriculum development work groups, and teaching advanced level courses.
  • This position requires working (primarily) onsite at Central Territorial Headquarters in Hoffman Estates, IL.

Supervisory Responsibility:

Provides Supervision for Territorial EDS Training and Data Support Specialist.Monitors the work of all Divisional Training Coordinators to identify and evaluate competency of THQ EDS personnel with duties specifically related to EDS/ESC training. Monitors and evaluates the training capabilities of trainers within the territory.

Minimum Qualifications:

The requirements listed below are representative of the minimal education, experience, knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required for this position.

Education:

  • Two-year degree or minimum of two years of relevant experience in ministry, teaching, volunteer management, emergency management or a related field or any equivalent combination of training. Bachelor's or master's degree preferred.
  • Critical Incident Stress Management Training or willingness to complete entry-level training within first year of employment.
  • Approved trainer for The Salvation Army's EDS/ESC courses.

Experience:

Two years experience in Salvation Army emergency disaster relief or Four years emergency disaster experience at another agency.

Experience in the coordination and development of volunteers and training groups of various sizes.

Certifications/Training:

  • Introduction to The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services. Incident Command System.
  • Incident Command System.
  • Emotional and Spiritual Care in Disaster Operations
  • Food Service.

Skills:

  • Good interpersonal skills.
  • Able to prioritize various projects.
  • Proficient in MS Office applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
  • Computer skills essential to train and manage training databases, including the LITMOS training platform and the GOLDEN Volunteer system.
  • Ability to speak, write and understand English in a manner sufficient for effective communication with leadership and field personnel.
  • Works well under pressure and meets the ever changing and last-minute deadlines created by the disaster environment.
  • Demonstrates excellent organization skills to assist in deployment of personnel for large-scale disasters.
  • Presentation, speaking, organization and writing skills required to train and supervise volunteers.
  • Curriculum development skills
  • Able to work independently and is self-motivated to move projects to completion within an established deadline without close supervision.
  • Valid State Driver's License.

The Territorial Disaster Training Coordinator exists to advance The Salvation Army's response capacity to fulfill the mission of disaster services by training and mentoring disaster trainers, coordinating conferences and training opportunities, conducting training, revising training curriculum, and documenting training activities.

Physical Requirements:

Physical requirements include good speaking, hearing and vision ability, and excellent manual dexterity. Lifting, pulling and pushing of materials up to 25 pounds. Requires bending, squatting and walking. Must be able to drive and have capacity for extended periods of travel. May stand for extended periods. Must be able to stay in challenging (primitive) conditions when required by disaster response.

Travel:

Travel will be required wherever needed for training events. While this will primarily be within the Central Territory, the position may also provide training outside the territory and be available to international disaster response when requested.

Working Conditions:

Work is performed in office and field settings in a variety of locations and conditions. This position must be flexible and will require training when needed and will occasionally involve weekend and evening work. In the event of a disaster, must be able to work outdoors, in adverse conditions, and in temporary facilities.

Why You'll Love Working atThe Salvation Army

Looking for more than just a job? Join a mission-driven organization where your work makes a real impact every day. At The Salvation Army, you'll be part of a team that values compassion, collaboration, growth, and service to others.

We believe in taking care of our employees by offering:

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability benefits
  • Generous paid time off including vacation, holidays, sick, and personal days
  • Retirement benefits including a 403(b) plan with employer contributions for eligible employees
  • Opportunities for professional growth, learning, and career development
  • A supportive culture that encourages work-life balance
  • Competitive compensation within the nonprofit sector

Most importantly, you'll join an organization with a meaningful mission - helping meet human needs and serving communities with dignity, compassion, and hope. Your work here truly matters.

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for this position, please call 847-294-2166.


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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US