Disaster Assistance Programs Specialist

Are you looking for an exciting and fast-paced career?

Join the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and be part of an organization that serves as a leader in emergency management and homeland security through dedicated service to all. We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join our team.

Under the supervision of the Program Manager I (PM I), the Disaster Assistance Programs Specialist I (DAPS I) performs journey level work relating to the provision of federal and state disaster assistance within the Cal OES Recovery Branch. Work within various programs including grants management, public assistance, research, analysis and documentation, and administration pursuant to the federal Public Assistance Disaster Grant, federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG), California Disaster Assistance Act (CDAA) grants, and other grant programs.

Executes assignments related to open state and federal disasters and emergency declarations and is the primary point of contact for closing assigned disaster projects and/or applications. Functions in a demanding and changing environment, which requires the DAPS I to act with great independence while effectively maintaining a routine workload and also regularly responding to short term tasks. Required to meet regulatory and internal deadlines on all assignments.

May be required to travel on short notice and work overtime as necessary in support of Cal OES and JFO program objectives.

• This is a 12 month Limited-Term position that may be extended up to 24 months and/or with the possibility of becoming permanent.**

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement. Click 'Apply Now' to read the official job bulletin and apply. Applications will be received until 11:59pm PST on February 17, 2026.

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

• Grants Management & Compliance:
  Familiarity in FEMA Public Assistance or state programs, including audit standards, risk assessment, accounting principles, and program reporting.
• Sector
  
  Experience:
  
  Non-profit background in disaster management, project management, community mobilization, and program evaluation.
• Analytical Decision-Making:
  Ability to interpret regulations, analyze complex data, and establish cooperative relationships with disaster assistance stakeholders.
• Adaptability:
  Capacity to adjust to changing priorities.
• Interpersonal
  
  Skills:
  
  Excellent communication and interactive skills.
• Accountability:
  Demonstrated ability to be responsible and accountable.
• Problem Solving:
  Use of creativity and innovation to resolve issues.
• Technical Proficiency:
  Skilled in word processing, spreadsheets, and databases, with a willingness to learn new technological tools.
• Communication:
  Strong written and oral skills with the ability to present ideas clearly and convincingly.
• Legislative Analysis:
  Experience interpreting legislative documents and government codes.

This position is located in the Closeout Unit in Mather, CA.

Hybrid Telework: This position 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). You must answer the questions addressing your DL on your application. Ensure you provide your DL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.

Conflict of Interest (COI): This position is designated under the Conflict of Interest Code and is required to complete Form 700 within 30 days of appointment. Failure to comply with the Conflict of Interest Code requirements may void the appointment.

The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture by hiring and retaining individuals from a variety of backgrounds and personal experiences. Our employees are empowered with the tools and resources necessary to meet our mission, while continuing to expand equity and inclusion efforts at all levels of the organization. We are committed to the spirit and work required to ensure the safety and resilience of every community in California.

Cal OES is an emergency response, homeland security, and disaster recovery agency and as a result, is a dynamic and exciting place to work in a team-oriented environment. Cal OES provides training to enhance the understanding of emergency and incident management to all employees.

The Recovery Directorate is responsible for managing disaster recovery and providing assistance to local governments, special districts, certain nonprofit organizations, individuals, businesses and agricultural communities impacted by disasters. The Recovery Directorate ensures state and…