Public Assistance Manager - Austin, TX

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for managing FEMA Public Assistance programs for state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) clients following declared disasters. This role oversees the full PA grant lifecycle—from damage assessment and project formulation through obligation, compliance, and closeout—while ensuring adherence to FEMA regulations and policies.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

• Manage FEMA Public Assistance programs in accordance with the Stafford Act, 2 CFR, 44 CFR, and FEMA PA policy guidance
• Oversee PA activities including Damage Assessments, Project Formulation, Scoping, Cost Estimating, Obligation, and Closeout
• Coordinate and oversee 406 Hazard Mitigation opportunities within PA projects
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, state agencies, FEMA staff, and partner consultants
• Ensure compliance with EHP, Insurance, Procurement, Labor (Davis-Bacon), and Force Account requirements
• Review and approve scopes of work, cost estimates, and supporting documentation for eligibility and compliance
• Track project schedules, funding status, deliverables, and reporting requirements
• Lead and mentor PA staff, consultants, and sub-consultants
• Support applicant briefings, recovery meetings, and on-site field operations
• Travel to disaster-impacted areas as required

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management, Engineering, Construction Management, Public Administration, or a related field
• 5+ years of FEMA Public Assistance experience
• Demonstrated experience managing FEMA PA projects through obligation and closeout
• Strong knowledge of 2 CFR, 44 CFR, FEMA PA policies, and disaster recovery procedures
• Experience working directly with state, local, tribal, or territorial governments
• Excellent written, verbal, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects in fast-paced, high-pressure environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related field
• FEMA training and certifications (e.g., G270, G318, G393, EEMI PA courses)
• Professional certifications such as PMP, PE, CCM, or CEM
• Experience working for FEMA, a state emergency management agency, or a disaster recovery consulting firm
• Familiarity with large-scale disasters and complex recovery programs

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive, competitive benefits package including:

• Comprehensive health and wellness programs
• Paid time off and holidays
• Flexible spending accounts
• Retirement savings plans
• Employee assistance programs
• Professional development opportunities

About the Role

The ideal candidate has deep FEMA PA experience, strong client-facing skills, and the ability to manage complex recovery projects involving multiple stakeholders, large funding amounts, and strict compliance requirements.