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Natural Disaster Management Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Disaster Recovery Manager

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

Southern Appalachian natural resource, forestry, environmental planning, or disaster recovery experience * Preferred: Project Management Professional (PMP) certification Physical Requirements

In the event of a hurricane or natural disaster, our company, Cortex, is committed to providing ... Receive and manage inbound phone calls from policyholders affected by hurricanes Gather accurate ...

In conjunction with its emergency and disaster management program, Northwest organizes and hosts ... a natural disaster. The University's vibrant and diverse learning community also offers more than ...

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Natural Disaster Management information

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$25.5K

$51.5K

$77.5K

How much do natural disaster management jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for natural disaster management in the United States is $51,476.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $59,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the main challenges faced by professionals working in natural disaster management, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals in natural disaster management often face challenges such as rapidly changing situations, coordinating among multiple agencies, and communicating effectively under pressure. Preparation involves staying updated on the latest emergency protocols, participating in regular training exercises, and building strong relationships with local stakeholders. Flexibility, quick decision-making, and strong teamwork are essential, as disaster scenarios can require long hours and fast adaptation to evolving conditions. Proactive planning and continuous skill development help professionals manage these challenges effectively.

What careers work with natural disasters?

Careers that work with natural disasters include emergency management directors, disaster response coordinators, meteorologists, civil engineers, and search and rescue personnel. These roles often require specialized training, certifications, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.

What degree do you need for disaster management?

A bachelor's degree in emergency management, disaster management, environmental science, public safety, or a related field is typically required for disaster management roles. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or specialized certifications such as FEMA's Professional Development Series or Incident Command System training.

What is the difference between Natural Disaster Management vs Emergency Response Coordinator?

AspectNatural Disaster ManagementEmergency Response Coordinator
Required CredentialsRelevant degrees in disaster management, emergency management, or related fields; certifications like ICS or NIMSSimilar credentials; certifications in emergency response, first aid, or incident command
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, planning, coordination during disasters, often in government or NGO settingsOn-site response during emergencies, coordinating teams and resources in real-time
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, NGOs, disaster relief organizationsEmergency services, government agencies, hospitals, and private firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in disaster preparedness and response planningFocus on immediate response and coordination during crises

Natural Disaster Management involves planning, preparedness, and coordination before and after disasters, while Emergency Response Coordinators focus on immediate action during emergencies. Both roles require similar credentials and often work within government or NGO sectors, but their focus and daily activities differ significantly.

What is the salary for disaster management?

The salary for disaster management professionals varies depending on experience, education, and location, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced managers or specialists can earn over $100,000 with additional certifications and skills in emergency response and planning.

How hard is it to get hired at FEMA?

Getting hired at FEMA for a natural disaster management role typically requires relevant experience in emergency management, strong organizational skills, and often a background in public safety or related fields. The hiring process can be competitive, involving multiple interview stages and background checks, and candidates may need to obtain specific certifications such as ICS or NIMS. Familiarity with federal hiring procedures and a willingness to work in high-pressure environments are also important factors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Natural Disaster Management, and why are they important?

To thrive in Natural Disaster Management, you need expertise in emergency response planning, risk assessment, and relevant academic qualifications such as a degree in emergency management or environmental science. Familiarity with disaster modeling software, GIS systems, and certifications like Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) are commonly expected. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills distinguish top professionals in this field. These skills ensure effective coordination and rapid, informed responses to minimize harm during natural disasters.

What is Natural Disaster Management?

Natural Disaster Management refers to the process of preparing for, responding to, and recovering from natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and wildfires. It involves planning, coordination, and the implementation of strategies to minimize the impact of such disasters on people, property, and the environment. Professionals in this field work with government agencies, non-profits, and communities to develop emergency plans, conduct risk assessments, and lead recovery efforts after disasters occur.
More about Natural Disaster Management jobs
What cities are hiring for Natural Disaster Management jobs? Cities with the most Natural Disaster Management job openings:
What states have the most Natural Disaster Management jobs? States with the most job openings for Natural Disaster Management jobs include:
Infographic showing various Natural Disaster Management job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,476 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
Disaster Recovery Manager

Disaster Recovery Manager

Chloeta

Roanoke, VA • On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

The Senior Disaster Recovery Program Manager leads the establishment and operation of a Program Management Office (PMO) supporting a federal agency with Hurricane Helene disaster recovery program. The position provides enterprise program management, partner coordination, project oversight, reporting, training, GIS/data management oversight, and recovery planning while coordinating with federal, state, local, and nonprofit partners.


Supervisory Responsibilities: Yes

Job Classification: Full-Time, Exempt

Duty Station: Roanoke, VA (Hybrid/Remote with frequent onsite meetings)

Travel: Up to 30 %

Compensation:

This pay band reflects Chloeta’s good faith estimate of the range it expects to offer; Chloeta reserves the right to alter this range if business circumstances change.

  • $105,000 - $125,000 annually
  • FLSA Exempt


Duties/Responsibilities

  • Establish, implement, and manage the Disaster Recovery PMO.
  • Develop PMO governance, charter, processes, dashboards, and reporting.
  • Manage project portfolios, priorities, schedules, budgets, risks, and issues.
  • Coordinate internal Forest Service and external partner meetings and provide meeting minutes.
  • Provide bi-weekly briefings and monthly status reports.
  • Develop Annual Operating Plans and 5-Year Plans of Work.
  • Coordinate Virginia Disaster Recovery Partnership activities.
  • Support NEPA planning coordination and regulatory compliance tracking.
  • Oversee GIS, geodatabases, decision-support tools, and data management.
  • Provide project management training to USFS personnel.
  • Support contract agreements, financial instruments, and administrative processes.
  • Ensure quality control and continuous process improvement.
  • This job description is not exhaustive and may not encompass all duties, responsibilities, or activities required of the employee. Duties and responsibilities may evolve over time, and new tasks may be assigned with or without prior notice.


Required Skills/Abilities

  • Must have a current/valid State Issued Driver License (DL)
  • Expert program and project management.
  • Experience establishing PMOs.
  • Strong stakeholder engagement and facilitation skills.
  • Knowledge of federal disaster recovery and interagency coordination.
  • Knowledge of NEPA, NFMA, and environmental planning processes.
  • Experience with GIS, geodatabases, dashboards, and data analytics.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication.
  • Risk management and portfolio management expertise.
  • Advanced Microsoft Office and project management software proficiency.


Education and Experience:

  • Required: Bachelor’s degree in business, Public Administration, Emergency Management, Environmental Science, Engineering, or related field.
  • Required: 5-10 years of relevant experience
  • Preferred: Experience supporting U.S. Forest Service Region 8 or similar federal agencies.
  • Preferred: Southern Appalachian natural resource, forestry, environmental planning, or disaster recovery experience
  • Preferred: Project Management Professional (PMP) certification


Physical Requirements

  • Prolonged periods of sitting and computer work.
  • Ability to attend onsite meetings and occasional field visits.
  • Ability to travel and lift up to 20 pounds as needed.
  • Travel: Local travel throughout Virginia and the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest as needed. Must be able to support frequent in-person meetings in the Roanoke, VA area.


Benefits

Eligible employees receive the following benefits:

  • Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • MDLIVE
  • Benefit Hub
  • Paid Annual Leave/PTO
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Paid Holidays
  • 401(k)
  • Basic Life
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
  • Accident Insurance
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)


Pre-employment Requirements

Due to the nature of Chloeta’s services, this position is contingent upon completing with a satisfactory outcome some or all of the following pre-employment background screenings: government security clearance, federal and state criminal background checks, drug test (urinalysis), Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) review, educational history, employment history, and/or credit check. In accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), pre-employment background screenings will require the employee’s written authorization and will occur after acceptance of an offer of employment and prior to commencing work. Additionally, employees are required to complete the federal I-9/E-Verify process.


Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy

Employees may be subject to undergoing additional drug screens and/or alcohol testing at any time during the period of employment, including without prior notice.


EEOC Statement

Chloeta provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.


About Chloeta

Chloeta is a Native American owned enterprise providing a diverse range of engineering, scientific, and technical solutions to support military, energy, homeland security, emergency preparedness, and critical infrastructure requirements.