About the opportunity
This position is located in the Office of Response and Recovery, Response Directorate, National Watch Center. The specialist works in-person on a 5-person team to gain, maintain, and convey national-level situational awareness. Responsibilities include performing key program implementation of FEMA GIS initiatives, developing program standards and training, and serving as a resource on complex geospatial program initiatives. The role requires frequent coordination with internal and external working groups to formulate solutions with agency-wide implications. All FEMA employees have emergency management responsibilities and may be subject to recall around the clock, including potential deployment to disaster sites with austere conditions.
Salary and benefits
- Competitive salary ($70,623 – $133,142 per annum)
- Health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance
- Retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401(k) equivalent)
- Flexible Spending Account
- Employee Assistance Program
- Personal leave days and paid federal holidays
- Flexible work schedules
- Tuition reimbursement and transportation subsidies
- Fitness centers and health/wellness programs
Who can apply?
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Must pass a Top Secret/SCI background investigation
- Must register for Selective Service if applicable
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Government credit card
- Must be able to deploy with little or no advance notice to anywhere in the U.S. and its territories
- Current federal employees must meet time-in-grade requirements
- Must meet specialized experience requirements at the GS-09, GS-11, or GS-12 level, or possess equivalent graduate education
Required documents
- Resume (maximum two pages)
- Responses to the online job questionnaire
- College transcripts (if qualifying based on education)
- SF-50 forms (for current or former federal employees)
- Notice of DRRA Eligibility (for eligible FEMA Stafford Act employees)
- DD-214 or other military discharge documentation (for veterans)
- Supporting documentation for non-competitive hiring authorities (e.g., Schedule A, military spouse)
- Agency notice and performance rating (for CTAP/ICTAP applicants)
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 2026-09-15
How to apply
- Click the Apply Online button on the USAJOBS announcement page
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required supporting documentation
- Submit the application package before the closing date
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments if notified after submission
- Participate in an interview if requested
Additional information
- This is a non-bargaining unit position.
- A one-year probationary period is required for new federal competitive service employees.
- The position is subject to random drug testing as a Testing Designated Position.
- Travel requirements for emergency operations may be extensive.
- Incentives may be offered depending on funding and qualifications.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Geospatial experts with experience in GIS initiatives
- Candidates capable of passing a Top Secret/SCI background investigation
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires availability for 24/7 recall and deployment to disaster sites
- Subject to random drug testing
- Must be prepared for austere working conditions during emergencies
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is ideal for a geospatial specialist looking to apply their technical skills to high-stakes emergency management. It offers a dynamic, fast-paced environment where your work directly supports national disaster response and recovery efforts.
Our take
Highly skilled GIS professionals who are prepared for the physical and operational demands of emergency deployment should apply; those seeking a standard office-only role may find this less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS




