Disaster management officers are responsible for planning and preparing communities for disasters and emergencies. They generally work with councils and government bodies to develop and implement plans and strategies to deal with natural disasters, such as bushfires, floods, cyclones, or other large-scale emergencies.
If you are passionate about helping your community, want a role that can be varied, and are prepared to face tough situations, this role could be ideal for you.
What skills do I need as a disaster management officer?
- Trustworthy and reliable
- Great communicator
- Fantastic team worker
- Plenty of initiative
- Excellent time management skills
- Calm under pressure
- Motivated and driven
- Kind and empathetic
What does the job involve?
- Creating disaster management plans
- Engaging with community to determine their needs
- Overseeing the implementation of plans in a disaster
- Liaising with government bodies and stakeholders
- Advising on policy decisions and matters
- Arranging public awareness activities
- Creating educational activities for schools
- Managing budgets and applying for funding
What industries do disaster management officers typically work in?
- Public Administration & Safety
- Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
- Health Care & Social Assistance
What Career Cluster do disaster management officers belong to?
Disaster management officers are dedicated to protecting community safety and wellbeing, making them excellent Guardians. They also often work closely with Coordinators to manage complex emergency responses, and Informers who help educate communities about disaster preparedness.
What kind of lifestyle can I expect?
Most disaster management officers work full-time. You can usually expect to work during normal business hours, Monday to Friday, though emergencies may require you to work odd hours.
Disaster Management Officers’ typically earn an above average salary throughout their career.
Depending on where you work, there will be times of the year that are busier than others (during bushfire or cyclone season, for example). You might also need to deal with people in (or who have been in) stressful situations, so being calm and empathetic is a must.
How to become a disaster management officer
To work as a disaster management officer, most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as:
- Emergency Management
- Public Safety
- Public Administration
- Environmental Science
Many professionals also pursue additional certifications in emergency management or specific areas like hazardous materials handling. Previous experience in emergency services, military, or crisis response roles is highly valued.
What can I do right now to work towards this career?
If you’re in high school and interested in becoming a disaster management officer, here are some steps you can take:
- Focus on subjects like English, Science, and Mathematics at school.
- Join emergency services volunteer programs in your local area.
- Contact your local council to organise a work experience or volunteering placement.
- Talk to a disaster management officer to see what a day in their life is like.
Where can I find more information?
You can learn more about careers in disaster management through these organisations:
- International Association of Emergency Managers
- National Emergency Management Agency (Australia)
- National Emergency Management Agency (NZ)
- Centre for Disaster Protection (UK)
- National Emergency Management Association (US)
- Emergency management organisations in Canada
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