Disaster Recovery Center Liaison

About the role

The Disaster Recovery Center Liaison plays a crucial role in coordinating disaster relief efforts at designated Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs). This position serves as the primary point of contact between local, state, and federal agencies, ensuring that survivors receive timely and accurate information regarding disaster assistance programs. The DRC Liaison is responsible for facilitating effective communication, monitoring center operations, and addressing concerns from both staff and the public.

Work assignments may vary based on project needs and may include working at a designated Disaster Recovery Center or conduction community outreach through neighborhood canvassing. Field assignments may require traveling throughout affected communities, moving between residential areas, and interacting with residents in various outdoor environments. Employees should be prepared to perform duties in either a DRC setting or a field-based environment, depending on operational needs.

Local hires preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the primary liaison between emergency management agencies, government officials, nonprofit organizations, and disaster survivors at the DRC.
• Provide guidance on disaster assistance programs, including Individual Assistance (IA), Public Assistance (PA), and other federal, state, and local relief efforts.
• Assist in coordinating on-site resources to ensure effective and efficient support for disaster survivors.
• Monitor daily operations of the DRC, ensuring compliance with established protocols and addressing any operational challenges.
• Support case management efforts by guiding survivors through the application process for disaster aid, including FEMA assistance, Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, and other recovery programs.
• Gather and report data related to survivor needs, service gaps, and DRC effectiveness to improve disaster response efforts.
• Collaborate with local officials and community partners to enhance outreach and survivor engagement efforts.
• Address concerns, complaints, and questions from survivors, escalating issues as necessary to appropriate agencies.
• Maintain records of interactions, reports, and correspondence for documentation and auditing purposes.

Requirements

• Experience in disaster recovery, emergency management, case management, or a related field.
• Knowledge of FEMA disaster assistance programs, state and local emergency management protocols, and community recovery resources.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse populations.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.
• Experience working with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or community-based groups in disaster response and recovery efforts.
• Ability to travel and work extended hours, including weekends, as needed during disaster response operations.