Most Homeland Security jobs in disaster response are available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Read below to learn about four exciting disaster response positions.
Hazard Mitigation Insurance Specialist
According to the Department of Homeland Security, a hazard mitigation insurance specialist helps both internal associates and external clients with insurance related services and programs. They present FEMA insurance information to audiences, communicate with insurance companies and provide technical assistance to internal partners. They advise FEMA and other government agencies concerning common insurance issues and questions. They regularly respond to external inquiries from insurance agents, adjusters and companies. During national emergencies, they work in the field disseminating and explaining insurance information to local insurance offices and disaster-affected communities. They work with other insurance experts to detect and prevent insurance fraud.
Property Management Account Specialist
This is an office-based position that provides property and equipment management support before, during and after disasters. They control and coordinate tool and equipment usage during emergencies. During major disasters, they coordinate with other regional property management specialists to share and organize available resources. These specialists track property records and maintain inventory control records. They support recovery plans and objectives through providing administrative support. They develop procedures that ensure accountability and stewardship of government resources. They uphold regulatory policies and standards. Many of these positions are one to two year temporary appointments through special funding. They provide customer service support to internal and external clients. They must ensure that physical documents are electronically archived and easily accessible.
Emergency Management Analyst
These professionals are responsible to analyze and improve the delivery of disaster relief programs and services during and after federally declared disasters and emergencies. The individual serves as a member of a regional recovery team within FEMA. The emergency management analyst evaluates current field activities and operations in order to provide guidance to staff regarding policies and regulations. Typical assignments include serving as a senior level advisor to regional leaders concerning policy and community issues. They develop and propose changes to emergency management training and response standards and practices. They also review inspection reports and participate in internal audits. They also maintain program and project budgets.
Geospatial Information Specialist
Geospatial information specialists are part of the emergency management team. They are deployed during emergencies to coordinate geospatial activities. These emergencies include man-made incidents, such as acts of terrorism, and weather induced accidents, such as floods or hurricanes. This involves handling spatial tools, such as GPS systems, to collect, analyze and disseminate spatial data. Sometimes, this data must be collected from remote and difficult to access locations. Geospatial information specialists spend up to half of their time traveling in the field and responding to incidents with only a 24 hour notice. They work long and irregular hours outside and typically live in temporary facilities while they assist with recovery operations.
Related Resource: Top 10 Best Online Homeland Security Degree Programs
Other Homeland Security jobs in disaster response include risk analysts, who identify and assess hazards, and technology program assistant, who provide IT support during local emergencies.
