Emergency Management Specialists coordinate emergency response services when there is a disaster such as a war, earthquake, hostage situation, and technology issues. They also provide training on disaster preparedness to ensure people can assist themselves in the case of an emergency. You will need a degree in homeland security studies, Emergency management, Public Administration, or in a related field. A master’s degree in emergency management may be a requirement for some organizations.
Below we highlight the top 20 questions and give you a plan on how to formulate your answers. Use this as a guide to ace the interview.
FEMA INTERVIEW
Interviews for Top Jobs at FEMA
Community PLanner Interview
I applied online. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at FEMA in Apr 2022
Interview
First interview – panel of 5 interviewers asking about 8 questions. All other interviewers would turn off their camera while the questioning interviewer asked the question, which was nice bc it felt like a 1 on 1 conversation instead of not knowing who to answer. The panel was fairly upbeat, but some interviewers looked exhausted and not excited to be there. They mentioned they are going through a significant growth spurt due to Covid.
- Detail your experience with and knowledge of hazard mitigation planning or other community plans that aim to minimize the risk of hazards?Identify top mitigation issues that a planner faces and why this is a concern?Skill level and experience working with technology in the office and the field?
HMGP BRANCH MANAGER Interview
I interviewed at FEMA
Interview
TEDIOUS AND BIAS AGAINST INDEPENDENT THINKERS. Not conducted in a professional manner to add diversity to the management of FEMA, especially to people of color and males. Never took into consideration the real time experience in the current environment and compared experiences with environments that were not comparabe
- How would I represent FEMA. r
Emergency Management Specialist Interview
I interviewed at FEMA
Interview
Easy phone interview. Prompt response via email with clear and precise instructions of what they need from you to move on in the hiring process. Not to mention the pay is above the average nation for the position with uncertainty, let’s keep that in mind.
- How did you respond to a difficult customer situation?
What candidates say about the interview process at Federal Emergency Management Agency
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Phone screening and interview.Shared on April 8, 2020 – Cyber Security Analyst – Washington, DC
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Homeland Security does the background checks and the process can take up to one yearShared on March 4, 2020 – Chief of Staff, Reservist – Washington, DC
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Relaxed and engaging.Shared on August 31, 2019 – Program Manager – Jacksonville, FL
How candidates received their first interview at Federal Emergency Management Agency
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Phone callShared on May 22, 2018 – Call Operator – Houston, TX
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I heard about the job position on radio.Shared on March 6, 2018 – Inspector II Service Contract FEMA HOUSING – San Juan, PR
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As a contractor under Robert Half TempShared on December 11, 2017 – Customer Service Representative – Hyattsville, MD
What advice do candidates give for interviewing at Federal Emergency Management Agency
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Be open to traveling with 24-48 hours! Ensure your passport is valid.Shared on July 23, 2022 – DISASTER SURVIVOR ASSISTANCE CREW LEADER – Washington, DC
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Don’t work there. Nothing but chaos and vindictive supervisors.Shared on May 1, 2019
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Google narcissistic personality disorder. It will help you a lot when you get on deployments. You will see them coming a mile away.Shared on August 22, 2018 – Program Liaison Specialist trainee – New York, NY
What steps would you take when preparing an emergency response plan?
Demonstrates the candidates strategic planning, attention to detail, and research abilities.
Why should you maintain communications with government bodies during a disaster?
Shows the candidates industry knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Interview Questions for Emergency Management Specialists:
Illustrates the candidates communication skills and organizational skills in ensuring employees have all the resources they need.
To help you prepare for a Fema job interview, here are 31 interview questions and answer examples.
In the commercial services industry, your experience with clients may be widespread. Talk to the interviewer about any particular industry to which you may have more exposure. If you have a specialty – now is the time to discuss your expertise. Whether you have experience in the same industry as Fema S.A.S., or not, be sure to appear confident in your capabilities.
“I understand that the majority of business that is coming to Fema S.A.S. is related to XYZ. I have about four years of dedicated XYZ experience. The remainder of my work experience is with a wide range of clients and industries. I feel that these experiences have equipped me very well for a position such as this.”
“I have the most experience in the manufacturing industry. Approximately 15 years, in fact. I believe this experience will benefit me in this role with Fema S.A.S. because I am well versed in best practices and manufacturing protocols.”
Why Are You Interested In This Role?
This role involves high-stress events and the interviewer is interested in knowing why you want to take it up. Give your motivation for taking up this role. Be sure to show authenticity and enthusiasm.
Sample Answer
“I’m interested in this role because I want to make a difference in my community. I understand I will be dealing with disasters and therefore there is some danger involved and I love a good challenge. I am in a position to assess the effect that my work has on the community in general and I feel a sense of fulfillment in helping others when the need arises. I also like the culture of this organization and its overall mission. I want to play a part in realizing this vision.”
What Are The Roles Of An Emergency Management Specialist?
The interviewer wants to know if you are aware of the roles you will play in this position. Demonstrate your understanding of the role by outlining the key roles to be played. Use the job description as a guide when answering this question.
Sample Answer
“In this role, I expect to answer phone calls both emergency and non-emergency. I will then assemble and dispatch the people and equipment necessary to respond to the emergency. I will be involved in the evacuation of people from the scenes of the emergency and ensuring they have all the basic requirements they need at that point in time. In other cases, I will be involved in teaching organizations or people about disaster preparedness. This is important in ensuring that the people are aware of the strategies to use and can assist in the process.”
FAQ
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What questions do they ask during interview?
- Could you tell me about yourself and describe your background in brief? …
- How did you hear about this position? …
- What type of work environment do you prefer? …
- How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations? …
- Do you prefer working independently or on a team?
