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Fema Disaster Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Deploy to FEMA-declared disaster areas as assigned * Contact applicants and schedule on-site inspections at damaged dwellings * Conduct thorough interior and exterior property inspections

Construction Inspector - Disaster Recovery Housing LEMOINE, a Great Place to Work ® -Certified ... Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR), Community Development Block Grant Mitigation (CDBG-MIT), FEMA ...

Lead Inspector - Disaster Recovery Housing LEMOINE, a Great Place to Work ® -Certified company, is ... Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR), Community Development Block Grant Mitigation (CDBG-MIT), FEMA ...

Lead Inspector - Disaster Recovery Housing LEMOINE, a Great Place to Work ® -Certified company, is ... Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR), Community Development Block Grant Mitigation (CDBG-MIT), FEMA ...

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Fema Disaster Inspector information

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How much do fema disaster inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for fema disaster inspector in the United States is $30.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $39.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Fema Disaster Inspector position, and why are they important?

To excel as a FEMA Disaster Inspector, you need a solid understanding of building codes, damage assessment, and report writing, often supported by experience in construction or emergency management. Familiarity with FEMA's inspection software, digital cameras, GPS devices, and relevant certifications such as FEMA's Certified Disaster Inspector are typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate, timely assessments and effective support for disaster-affected communities during critical recovery periods.

What type of inspector gets paid the most?

Among disaster inspectors, federal roles such as FEMA Disaster Inspectors tend to have higher salaries compared to state or local inspectors due to increased responsibilities and federal pay scales. Specialized inspectors with advanced certifications or experience in areas like structural engineering or hazardous materials may also earn higher wages. Salary levels depend on experience, location, and the specific agency or organization.

What is a FEMA Disaster Inspector job?

A FEMA Disaster Inspector assesses damage to homes and businesses after federally declared disasters. They inspect properties to determine the extent of damage and report findings to FEMA, which helps determine financial assistance for affected individuals. Inspectors work on a temporary, contract basis and must be able to travel on short notice. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work in disaster environments are essential for this role.

What qualifications do you need to work for FEMA?

FEMA Disaster Inspectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience in inspection, construction, or emergency management. Certification in areas such as safety or disaster response is often preferred, and strong communication and analytical skills are essential for the role.

What are the typical working conditions for a FEMA Disaster Inspector during deployment?

FEMA Disaster Inspectors often work in challenging environments, including recently impacted disaster zones where conditions can be physically demanding and unpredictable. During deployments, inspectors may work long or irregular hours and need to travel frequently to various sites, sometimes on short notice. The role usually involves working independently, but inspectors regularly interact with disaster survivors, local officials, and other emergency response personnel. Despite the demanding nature of the job, many find it rewarding to help communities recover from significant events, and opportunities for advancement exist for those who consistently perform well and pursue additional FEMA training.

Is it hard to get hired by FEMA?

FEMA Disaster Inspector positions can be competitive due to the specialized skills and experience required, such as knowledge of disaster response and inspection procedures. Candidates often need relevant certifications, a background in emergency management, and the ability to work in challenging environments, which can make the hiring process challenging but achievable with proper preparation.

How to become an inspector for FEMA?

To become a FEMA Disaster Inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in disaster assessment or inspection, and may need to complete FEMA training courses. Applicants should also pass background checks and may be required to obtain certifications related to disaster assessment or safety. Strong communication skills and the ability to work in field environments are important for this role.
More about Fema Disaster Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Fema Disaster Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Fema Disaster Inspector job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fema Disaster Inspector jobs? The most popular types of Fema Disaster Inspector jobs are:
What states have the most Fema Disaster Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Fema Disaster Inspector jobs include:
Infographic showing various Fema Disaster Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 19% Full Time, 72% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,090 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

FEMA-Disaster Recovery Specialists (Mechanical Engineers)

Dewberry Engineers Incorporated

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description


FEMA-Disaster Recovery Specialists (Mechanical Engineers)
Job ID
15223
# of Openings
25
Job Location
US
Category
Disaster Support
Relocation Assistance
No
Service Line
MCS
Job Description

FEMA-Disaster Recovery Specialists (Mechanical Engineers)

Join the Dewberry Team! Are you looking for a rewarding opportunity to help our country with disaster recovery work? Dewberry maintains a cadre of skilled professional and technical staff in an on-call capacity to support disaster recovery work across the United States. We are currently searching for highly qualified Mechanical Engineers to support these projects. As one of our Disaster Specialists, you will collaborate with some of the best and brightest in the industry and use your expertise to support critical recovery efforts in disaster-impacted communities.This is an excellent opportunity for those who want to use their knowledge, skills and abilities to help disaster survivors at disaster recovery operation work sites throughout the United States and its territories.

*Please note, remote work is not permitted for this role. This is a nonfulltime, deploymentbased on-call position supporting disaster relief efforts across the United States. Team members are deployed to impacted sites as needed and may travel frequently on short notice. While the role requires physical presence at various disaster locations, it is not tied to a single office or fixed worksite.

Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional services firm with more than 60 locations and 2,500 professionals nationwide. What sets us apart from our competitors is our people. At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients. Whether you're an experienced professional or a new graduate, you'll have the chance to collaborate with the best and brightest and work on innovative and complex projects at the forefront of the industry. Our commitment to excellence stems from our personal integrity and from other defining attributes, which we call "Dewberry at Work," that have inspired our employees to be successful for more than a half-century.

Responsibilities

Mechanical Engineer Responsibilities

In this role, you will deploy to disaster sites to support FEMA or other government entities in the delivery of disaster recovery programs such as the Public Assistance (PA) program or the FEMA Individual Assistance (IA) Direct Housing program. Mechanical Engineers may perform field inspections of damaged facilities to gain an understanding of the project scope of work, including means and methods of construction. They also may assist FEMA, local government agencies and other entities with understanding the technical requirements for projects in their field of expertise. The work includes but is not limited to assessments of disaster-damaged infrastructure, documenting detailed damage descriptions, developing new or restoration scopes of work, formulating detailed cost estimates, and assisting with hazard mitigation planning.

Required Skills & Required Experience
    Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field from an accredited university
  • Minimum of 5 years of full-time professional experiencein field of study working with public infrastructure
  • Knowledge of modern construction practices and experience conducting facility assessments, performing construction inspection, and developing project scope and cost estimates
  • Working knowledge of International Building Code (IBC), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other governmental regulatory compliance
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Must be computer literate and proficient with MS Office Suite applications
  • Must be able to work both independently and in a team environment under stressful conditions
  • The ability to work up to 12 hours per day, 7 days a week while deployed to a disaster recovery operation for up to 12 months
  • Must have a valid driver's license and clean driving record
  • Be a U.S. citizen capable of passing a federal background investigation to obtain a Public Trust clearance

Preferred Skills and Experience:

  • Licensed Professional Engineer
  • Five years of experience working as a mechanical engineer
  • Working knowledge of the FEMA PA Program law, regulation and policy
  • Prior FEMA PA experience as: Program Delivery Manager, Site Inspector, Policy Advisor, Cost Estimator, or Hazard Mitigation Specialist
  • Working knowledge of FEMA's Grants Manager or Grants Portal
  • Proficiency using cost estimating software such as RS Means and Xactimate

*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.

*This position is covered by the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act of 1965 (SCA).

*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.

*Only recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry, will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law.

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