FEMA Corps – Making a Difference When it Matters Most
February 22, 2023Every year, millions of individuals suffer the effects of natural and man-made disasters. FEMA Corps is an excellent opportunity for those who have an interest in a career in emergency management or a related field. Members are involved in projects within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Those working for FEMA Corps take a step towards federal employment while gaining on-the-job experience in emergency management. Participants are deployed wherever the need is greatest, meaning they may travel across the country multiple times, or stay in one location for the duration of service.
While the specific project will vary, all FEMA Corps members are trained in at least one of FEMA’s mission critical functions: disaster survivor assistance, individual assistance, logistics, planning/geographic information system, and public assistance.
There are two position options for serving in the FEMA Corps: Team Leader or Corps Member. As a Corps Member, your term is 11 months, while your term is 12 months as a Team Leader. Corps Members serve under the direction of a Team Leader and complete the service term living and serving together with their team. Both Team Leaders and Corps Members train in one or more of FEMA’s mission-critical functions. In either role, members have the opportunity to build a network that will bring multiple job opportunities after they graduate.
FEMA Corps offers a living allowance, free room and board, a budget for food, college credits, and training in different skills that can be used outside of FEMA Corps. Education awards are also available, and if members have any student loans, they can defer them until after graduating from the program. Those interested must be between the ages of 18-26 at the start of their service term to serve as a Corps Member. Team Leaders must be at least 18 years old, and there is no upper age limit.
To apply, go to www.americorps.gov/serve/fit-finder/americorps-nccc.