Individual Assistance (IA) Officer – Emergency Management

About the role

The Individual Assistance (IA) Officer supports South Carolina’s disaster recovery efforts by coordinating federal assistance programs, managing volunteer liaisons, and ensuring effective communication among state, local, and federal partners.

Key responsibilities

• Administer and coordinate FEMA Individual Assistance (IA) programs and SBA disaster loans.
• Develop and update disaster recovery plans and processes.
• Supervise a voluntary agency liaison (VAL) and support disaster housing functions.
• Design and deliver training courses on survivor recovery and damage assessment.
• Participate in conferences, workshops, and seminars to improve IA program delivery.
• Assist the chief of Recovery and Mitigation Section with federal assistance requests.
• Maintain records, prepare reports, and brief the State Coordinating Officer and Governor’s Authorized Representative after disasters.
• Lead the South Carolina IA team, including VAL, Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment members, and surge staff.
• Serve in the State Emergency Operations Center or affected areas during emergencies, exercises, and drills.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree and experience in emergency planning, operational planning, volunteer management, or related fields.
• Class D South Carolina driver’s license (must maintain).
• IAEM CEM or SC CEM certification preferred or to be obtained within three years.
• Ability to interpret regulations, communicate effectively, and travel overnight as needed.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on critical disaster recovery initiatives.
• Professional development through training and certification support.
• Engagement with federal, state, and local partners in emergency management.