Nationwide planning, design and construction firm creating innovative solutions for natural and built environments.
Disaster Specialists will be deployed to support FEMA or other government entities in delivering programs such as the Public Assistance (PA) and Individual Assistance (IA) Direct Housing initiatives. Responsibilities include conducting field inspections of damaged facilities, documenting detailed damage descriptions, developing restoration scopes of work, preparing cost estimates, and assisting with hazard mitigation planning. The work may also involve advising on technical requirements for electric‑power‑related projects.
Dewberry is seeking FEMA Disaster Recovery Specialists who are qualified Structural Engineers to join its on‑call team supporting disaster recovery across the United States and its territories. The position is deployment‑based, requiring candidates to work on‑site at disaster‑impacted locations; remote work is not permitted. This role offers the chance to apply technical expertise to aid communities affected by natural and man‑made disasters.
Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in structural engineering or a related field and have at least five years of professional experience with public infrastructure. Required knowledge includes modern construction practices, the International Building Code (IBC), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other regulatory compliance standards. Strong oral and written communication skills, proficiency with the MS Office Suite, and the ability to work independently or within a team under stressful conditions are essential. Applicants must be able to work up to 12 hours per day, seven days a week for up to twelve months while deployed, possess a valid driver’s license, and be a U.S. citizen capable of obtaining a Public Trust clearance.
Preferred qualifications include a Professional Engineer (PE) license, familiarity with FEMA PA program laws and policies, and prior FEMA PA experience in roles such as Program Delivery Manager, Site Inspector, or Cost Estimator. Experience with residential site development, cost‑estimating software (RS Means, Xactimate), and FEMA’s Grants Manager or Grants Portal is also valued. Dewberry does not sponsor work authorization at this time, and the position is covered by the McNamara‑O'Hara Service Contract Act of 1965. The firm is an equal‑opportunity employer and conducts background screenings for all hired candidates.