If you are interested in . . .

emergency response Plans interviewing disaster victims working with Congressional, media and community contacts quick response helping people in need assessing or solving problems

You may want to explore a career as an Emergency Preparedness Specialist. The Emergency Preparedness Specialist participates in the development and coordination of policies, procedures, and guidance required for emergency response and recovery, which could be utilized in the event of disaster, emergency, or exercise. Several conditions of employment exist for this position, one includes being subject to 24-hour on call in the event of an emergency. This job may also require irregular working hours, and work at locations other than the official duty station. The Emergency Preparedness Specialist must be able to relocate to emergency sites with little advance notice and function under intense physical and mental stress. This position also requires employees to possess or qualify for access to national security information, which requires a single scope background investigation. Most Emergency Preparedness Specialists work for the government at the federal level. Others are employed by the shipping, oil, and gas industries. Some Emergency Preparedness Specialists contract themselves out to different federal agencies to train employees. Pursuing a career as an Emergency Preparedness Specialist requires at least one year of specialized experience in emergency response. Knowledge of, and experience with FEMA management and organizational planning, administration and programs are required. Training is also required for this position. Management in crisis situations, emergency preparedness analysis, safety management, emergency preparedness documentation are some courses offered. Description of Mid-Level Job Position The Emergency Preparedness Specialist position requires experience and training. Responsibilities include: working knowledge of current theories, administrative principles, techniques, and skills in emergency response and recovery program management; ability to research and interpret legislation, policies, and other guidance relevant to basic emergency management policy and program development techniques including, planning/operations and budget process; ability to interact with all levels of management and coordinate activities with high level officials both within and outside the Federal government; knowledge of interagency plans, status, and regulations of the emergency management field with emphasis on authorities and Federal response and recovery planning; an in-depth knowledge of office automation systems, including personal computer systems and standard software packages for word processing, graphics, and similar presentation tools and databases. Recommendations A degree in Management, Public or Business Administration, Jurist Doctorate, Government and Politics, Computer Science, Science, or another related field would best prepare you for the position Emergency Preparedness Specialist. To most effectively perform their duties, Emergency Preparedness Specialist

should be able to work well in highly stressful situations (especially when a large-scale disaster strike), enjoy working with people and acquire effective speaking and writing skills.