Public Assistance Specialist - PDAs

THIS IS A TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 

Position Summary: 

We are a leading provider of integrated preparedness, emergency response management and disaster recovery consulting services. We are growing our team of Public Assistance (PA) Specialists for anticipated opportunities to support our clients with preparations for responding to and recovering from federally declared disasters. The PA Specialist supports disaster response and recovery operations by conducting Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) in coordination with federal, state, and local partners. This role is responsible for evaluating disaster-related impacts to public infrastructure and facilities, collecting and validating damage data, and supporting the development of accurate cost estimates to inform potential disaster declarations and funding under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program. As a PA Specialist - PDAs, you must be able to rapidly deploy to disaster-impacted areas, often under rapidly changing conditions.  
 
Job Duties and Responsibilities include: 

• Conduct on-site Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) for public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, utilities, public buildings, and debris impacts 

• Document damages using FEMA PDA forms, mobile data collection tools, GIS applications, and photographic evidence  

• Develop order-of-magnitude cost estimates for emergency work (Categories A & B) and permanent work (Categories C-G) 

• Validate damages to ensure they are disaster-related, eligible, and accurately categorized in accordance with FEMA PA policy 

• Compile and submit detailed PDA reports within required timeframes 

• Support damage data reconciliation and quality assurance reviews 

• Provide situational updates and briefings to leadership  

• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations, including 44 CFR, FEMA policy guidance, and documentation standards 

• Assist in transitioning PDA data into the Public Assistance grant process as needed 

• Develop federal grant applications (FEMA Project Worksheets) for all Categories of Work; providing review and quality assurance regarding damage descriptions, scope of work, cost estimates, and general PA eligibility content, as needed 

• Provide guidance regarding FEMA’s Grants Portal including utilization of reporting functions 

• Provide programmatic and technical assistance, perform program reviews, and project analysis as required 

• Follow all safety guidelines in performance of work activities 

• Complete required training as assigned 

• Perform other duties as assigned 

 
Skills and Competencies: 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications and familiarity with GIS or mobile data collection tools, and the ability to quickly learn new computer software, programs, or tools 

• Strong analytical and documentation skills 

• Ability to work effectively in high-pressure, field-based environments 

• Excellent communication and stakeholder coordination abilities 

• Attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy and compliance 

• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations 

Physical Demands/Work Environment: 

• Rapid deployment to disaster-affected areas with extended hours, including nights and weekends 

• Fieldwork may involve exposure to debris, damaged structure, and varying weather conditions 

• Travel required, often within 24-48 hours for extended durations from weeks to months at a time 

• Ability to walk long distances, navigate uneven terrain, and access impacted sites 

• Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. and perform field inspections 

• Sitting or standing for hours at a time 

• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods of time if needed 

 
Additional Requirements: 

• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a vehicle in disaster areas 

• Ability to pass a background check and drug screening 

Education and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in emergency management, engineering, construction management, public administration, or a related field, preferred 

• Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in FEMA Public Assistance 

• Direct experience with FEMA Public Assistance Program and PDA process  

• Knowledge of 2 CFE 200, Stafford Act, and FEMA PA policy and guidance 

• Working knowledge of FEMA PA Categories (A-G) and eligibility criteria  

Location: Hawaii 

Pay Rate:  $40 - $45/hr 
 
Job Description Disclaimer 
This position description incorporates the job's core responsibilities. It recognizes that other related duties not specifically mentioned might also be performed and that not all responsibilities may be carried out depending on operational needs. 
 
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. Upon hire, secondary employment and other employment restrictions must be disclosed and approved. 
 
Tidal Basin Holdco, LLC, and its subsidiaries and affiliated companies, which include Tidal Basin Government Consulting, LLC are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.