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Fema First Responder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... SAFER) thru FEMA. To be considered for this career opportunity applicants must submit, an ... The primary responsibility of the fire suppression and first responder units are to respond to fire ...

Medical: CPR/AED, Emergency Medical First Responder * IFSAC/ProBoard Accredited: Fire Fighter I * Driver/Operator: Emergency Vehicle Driver Training * FEMA Independent Study Courses: IS-100 ...

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Fema First Responder information

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How much do fema first responder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for fema first responder in the United States is $21.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $29.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Fema First Responder vs Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)?

AspectFema First ResponderEmergency Medical Technician (EMT)
CertificationsFEMA certifications, basic emergency response trainingState-certified EMT, CPR, AED
Work EnvironmentDisaster sites, emergency response scenes, federal agenciesAmbulances, hospitals, emergency scenes
Employer & IndustryFederal agencies, disaster response teamsAmbulance services, hospitals, EMS agencies

Fema First Responders are trained to assist in disaster and emergency situations, often working with federal agencies. EMTs focus on providing pre-hospital emergency medical care. While both roles require emergency response skills, EMTs are specifically trained to deliver medical treatment, whereas Fema First Responders may have broader disaster response responsibilities.

Are FEMA employees first responders?

FEMA employees are not typically classified as first responders; instead, they coordinate disaster response efforts, provide logistical support, and manage federal assistance programs. First responders usually include emergency personnel such as firefighters, police, and emergency medical services on the scene during incidents. FEMA staff often work behind the scenes or in command roles during emergencies.

Does FEMA hire paramedics?

FEMA primarily hires emergency management professionals and supports first responders during disasters, but it does not typically directly employ paramedics. However, paramedics may be involved in FEMA-led emergency response efforts through contracts or partnerships with local agencies. Certification in emergency medical services (EMS) and relevant experience are valuable for roles supporting disaster response and recovery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a FEMA First Responder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a FEMA First Responder, you need a solid background in emergency response, incident management, and disaster relief, often supported by certifications such as FEMA ICS (Incident Command System) and CPR/First Aid. Familiarity with communication equipment, emergency management software, and safety protocols is essential for coordinating disaster response efforts. Strong teamwork, clear communication, and resilience under pressure are vital soft skills for effectively supporting communities in crisis. These competencies ensure rapid, organized, and life-saving responses during emergencies, directly impacting public safety and recovery.

How do FEMA First Responders typically collaborate with local emergency personnel during disaster response?

FEMA First Responders work closely with local emergency teams, such as fire departments, law enforcement, and medical personnel, to coordinate relief efforts and ensure efficient resource distribution. They often participate in joint briefings, share situational updates, and support local strategies to address community needs. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as FEMA responders may be called upon to fill gaps or provide expertise where local resources are stretched. This collaborative approach helps maximize response effectiveness and improves outcomes for affected communities.

What is the highest paying first responder job?

The highest paying first responder job is typically a paramedic or emergency medical services (EMS) supervisor, with salaries often exceeding $50,000 to $70,000 annually depending on experience and location. Fire chiefs and emergency management directors also tend to earn higher salaries, often surpassing $100,000 with advanced certifications and leadership responsibilities.

What are FEMA First Responders?

FEMA First Responders are trained professionals who are among the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of emergencies managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). They may include firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), law enforcement officers, and other personnel specially trained to handle disasters and crises. Their primary role is to ensure public safety, provide emergency medical care, and support disaster recovery efforts. FEMA First Responders work closely with local, state, and federal agencies to coordinate relief operations and help communities recover from natural and man-made disasters.

Is it hard to get hired at FEMA?

Getting hired as a FEMA first responder can be competitive, as the agency seeks candidates with relevant emergency management experience, certifications, and a background in public safety. The hiring process involves multiple steps, including background checks, assessments, and sometimes physical fitness tests, which can extend the timeline for employment.
What cities are hiring for Fema First Responder jobs? Cities with the most Fema First Responder job openings:
What states have the most Fema First Responder jobs? States with the most job openings for Fema First Responder jobs include:

PRN Auxiliary Communications (AuxC) Specialist

National Emergency Management and Response

Columbus, OH

$51K - $68K/yr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

It's a great feeling to work for a company that does so much good for others around the world!

Education Req: Must hold either a Bachelor's degree in electronics/telecommunications-related field or emergency management, Homeland Security, Public Administration or related field or have 4 years of verifiable experience.. Applicants are required to demonstrate prior completion of Incident Command System training, including the following FEMA independent study courses:
IS-100.c Incident Command System
IS-200.b ICS for Single Resources
IS-700.b National Incident Management System
IS-800.c National Response Framework
* Proof of course completion for each course above will be required for consideration.

Auxiliary Communication (AUXCOMM) endorsement (Position Task Book completed) and a valid FCC Amateur Radio License (Technician or higher; General preferred) required.


Experience Req: Minimum 4 years experience working in AUXCOMM for a government agency in a first responder capacity (Fire, Rescue, EMS, Law Enforcement, Public Health, Emergency Management or equivalent). Affiliation with Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS) and experience with Winlink, HF operations, and digital messaging systems preferred.


Summary: The Auxiliary Communicator (AuxC) supports National EMR's emergency communications capability by providing resilient, interoperable radio communications during incidents, disasters, and exercises. This role ensures continuity of operations when traditional communications systems are degraded or unavailable. AuxC personnel integrate into established incident command structures and support local, state, and national communications networks.


This is NOT a full-time job. National EMR does not guarantee length or frequency of deployments. You will be paid for the actual number of hours worked. Pay scales are based on the job classification as determined by National EMR.


To successfully perform the essential functions of a reservist, the employee may be expected to perform the following, with or without reasonable accommodations, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.


Responsibilities and Duties:


Reservists may be assigned to any role within an emergency response under the Incident Command System
(ICS) structure but you are primarily being hired to serve as an AUXCOMM. Duties include, but are not limited to:

1.Deploy and operate emergency communications systems (VHF/UHF/HF voice and digital modes) in support of incident operations.
2.Maintain readiness of personal and assigned communications equipment, including go-kits.
3.Support development and execution of incident communications plans (ICS-205).
4.Ensure all communications activities comply with FCC regulations, AUXCOMM standards, and interoperability best practices.
5.Participate in training, drills, and exercises to sustain operational readiness.
6.Coordinate and communicate effectively with Incident Command, EOCs, and partner agencies.
7.Maintain current AUXCOMM qualification status and remain in good standing with AUXCOMM USA.
8.Assist in testing and maintaining National EMR's AUXCOMM, SAROS, and AUCOMM capabilities.
9.Provide field-expedient communications solutions in austere or degraded environments.
10.Understand and adhere to the National EMR Policies and Procedures Manual, Uniform Handbook, and Operations Manual.
11.Maintain personal readiness to deploy within 6-12 hours of activation, including updated availability in National EMR's mobile application.
12.Complete agency-directed training through the learning management system, including Just-In-Time (JIT) training and mission-specific modules.
13.Promote a culture of safety by identifying hazards, reporting safety concerns immediately, and following established safety protocols.
14.Foster a culture that encourages team members to work safely, identify potential hazards, and report safety concerns immediately to their direct chain of command.
15.Maintain active status within the agency's platforms, including learning management systems to complete training that may be directed toward self-improvement, mission-specifics, or Just-In-Time (JIT) training.
16.Participate in, assist, or supervise a workforce that will conduct disaster preparedness, response, and recovery initiatives as needed.
17.Be receptive and flexible to serve in any position when responding to critical circumstances which may have obstacles and/or challenges that need to be overcome.
18.Be able to solve day-to-day operational issues and reach short-term performance goals.
19.Support survivors and communities during disasters by being readily available to assist at a moment's notice.
20. Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:


1.Must maintain deployable status and the physical/mental readiness to work in emergency environments on short notice.
2.Adhere to high standards of professional integrity and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and workplace expectations.
3.Provide proof of valid driver's license and driving record in good standing with no restrictions (subject to review annually).
4.Successfully pass a background check and drug screening (pre-deployment or random).
5.Demonstrate the ability to:
a.Work collaboratively across disciplines and communicate effectively (verbal and written).
b.Respond sensitively to diverse cultural, socioeconomic, and community needs.
c.Navigate high-stress environments with sound judgment and composure.
d.Operate independently or as part of a multidisciplinary team with limited supervision.
e.Use Microsoft Office and communication tools (radio, satellite phone, mobile apps).
f.Respond sensitively and competently to the service population's cultural and socio-economic characteristics.
g.Maintain professional skills, including strong interpersonal and non-verbal communication.
h.Perform physical activity such as extensive walking, stretching, bending, and occasionally lifting and/or exceeding 50 lbs.
6.Must be capable of maintaining physical endurance and focus during extended operations (12-hour shifts, nights, weekends, holidays).
7.Must be available for on-call duty and may be required to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to support emergency response and deployment operations.

English (United States)

If you like to work with people that believe they can make a difference in the world, this is the company for you!

EEO Statement

In accordance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other applicable federal and state laws (e.g., the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it is our policy to provide equal employment opportunity and treat all employees equally regardless of race, religion, national origin, color, sex,or any other classification made unlawful or prohibited by federal, state and/or local laws, such as age, citizenship status, veteran or military status, or disability. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, training, working conditions, transfer, job assignments, benefits, layoff, and termination.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.