Disaster Assistance Programs Specialist I

About the role

The California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is seeking a Disaster Assistance Program Specialist I (DAPS I) to support the Recovery Directorate. This role involves working within various disaster recovery programs, including FEMA’s Public Assistance Program and the California Disaster Assistance Act. The DAPS I will work directly with California state agencies and other public entities to support financial recovery from disasters.

Responsibilities

• Works within various disaster recovery programs to include FEMA’s Public Assistance Program and the California Disaster Assistance Act.
• Functions in a demanding and evolving environment, requiring the DAPS I to act with great independence while effectively maintaining a routine workload.
• Regularly responds to urgent requests and may be required to travel on short notice, work in a Joint Field Office, and work overtime as necessary.
• May be required to travel on short notice, work in a Joint Field Office, and work overtime as necessary in support of Cal OES program objectives.

Requirements

This position is in the Public Assistance State Unit located in Mather, CA. It is eligible for a hybrid work schedule. Additional in-office days may be required based on the business need. DMV Pull Program: Participation in the DMV Pull Program is required. The position(s) require(s) a valid Driver’s License (DL).

Qualifications

• Experience in working with disaster assistance programs, construction management, field assessments, and recovery operations.
• Interest in supporting communities in recovering and rebuilding after disasters.
• Knowledge of government operations, organization, and policies.
• Skilled in construction cost estimating, management, contracting, and building inspection.
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving abilities.
• Clear and confident communicator of complex technical and policy information.
• Proficient with office and database applications; quick to learn new tools.
• Dependable, adaptable, and effective in remote or field environments.
• Collaborative and customer-focused with strong stakeholder relations skills.

Skills

Desirable qualifications include:

• Experience in working with disaster assistance programs, construction management, field assessments, and recovery operations.
• Interest in supporting communities in recovering and rebuilding after disasters.
• Knowledge of government operations, organization, and policies.
• Skilled in construction cost estimating, management, contracting, and building inspection.
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving abilities.
• Clear and confident communicator of complex technical and policy information.
• Proficient with office and database applications; quick to learn new tools.
• Dependable, adaptable, and effective in remote or field environments.
• Collaborative and customer-focused with strong stakeholder relations skills.

Benefits

Cal OES employees are eligible for a number of benefits, including:

• Free Parking
• On-site Gym and Locker room
• Electric Carport
• Excellent CalPERS state pension plan
• 401(k) and 457(b) Plans
• Flexible Schedules
• Generous paid time off
• Health, dental & vision insurance for the employee or the employee's family
• Investment in careers development
• Located near many local eateries, financial institutions, and the Light Rail Station