FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, was originally formed in 1978 by Presidential Organizational Plan Number 3. It was implemented the following April by two executive orders and tasked with coordinating the Federal Government’s response to disasters that overwhelm the resources of local and state emergency response authorities. In 2003, the organization was absorbed into the Department of Homeland Security and became a major part of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Directorate of the Department of Homeland Security. The agency now employs more than 7,400 professionals throughout the United States and has an annual budget of nearly 11 billion dollars.
What FEMA looks for in job candidates
Like any government agency, FEMA typically requires applicants to pass a thorough background check. Those with prior convictions or are currently on parole or probation are unlikely to gain employment at FEMA. Aside from the criminal background check, other typical requirements and/or preferences include:
– Motivation
– Creativity
– Self-Discipline
– A military or civil service background
– A bachelor’s or post-graduate degree
For information on the steps to applying to FEMA, visit their official website. For a complete list of job listings from FEMA and other government agencies, visit the federal government’s job portal at USAJOBS.GOV
Degree Programs That Will Prepare You For a Job at FEMA
As an emergency preparedness and response agency, FEMA employs a wide range of professionals with experience in everything from public health to business administration. FEMA – as well as the Department of Homeland Security and most other government agencies – even employ individuals with degrees in fields such as marketing, public relations, and office management. In some cases, individuals with a wealth of experience as a first responder but who lack a degree are able to secure a job at FEMA.
Benefits of working for FEMA
Is it worth it to work toward getting a job at FEMA? While that depends in large part on the goals of the individual applying, there are a number of tangible benefits to getting a job at FEMA, including:
– One of the best health insurance plans in the nation
– Competitive pay
– Specialized training
– Pension & Retirement program
In addition to the financial benefits of working for an agency such as FEMA, it’s important to also consider the greater odds of finding career satisfaction and the job security that comes with working for the federal government.
Getting a job in the public sector is one of the best career moves an individual can make. If you decide to apply for a job at FEMA, be persistent. Government jobs are highly competitive due to the handsome benefits package and salary agencies such as FEMA offer prospective employees. Apply for every position you are qualified for and update your resume regularly. While you may have to submit several applications before you are called for an interview and hired for a position, the benefits and salary are well worth the trouble.