JOB SUMMARY

The Grants Manager/FEMA Public Assistance Specialist will support Royal’s Disaster Response and Recovery Team. This position will assist Royal’s clients, including state, local, and eligible non-profit entities, in recovering from disasters by guiding them through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program. This role involves managing the full lifecycle of disaster response, from initial damage assessments to grant closeout, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and efficient delivery of federal aid.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management, Public Administration, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Alternatively, at least four years of relevant experience in disaster response or emergency management may substitute for a degree.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in FEMA Public Assistance.
• Proven experience coordinating with federal, state, and local agencies during disaster response.
• Familiarity with FEMA’s Grants Portal, Cost Estimating Format (CEF), and RS Means for cost estimation.

Certifications:

• Completion of FEMA Independent Study Courses preferred (e.g., IS-100 Introduction to ICS, IS-700 Introduction to NIMS, IS-800 National Response Framework, IS-2200 Basic EOC Functions).
• Preferred: Professional certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Cost Estimator, or FEMA Public Assistance training, including completion of FEMA Independent Study Courses.

Licenses:

• Valid driver’s license (due to potential travel requirements).
• Ability to pass a federal background investigation.

KEY SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

Technical Skills:

• Strong analytical skills for assessing damage, developing cost estimates, and ensuring compliance with federal regulations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and the FEMA Grants Portal.
• Knowledge of federal disaster recovery frameworks, including the Stafford Act and FEMA’s PAPPG.

Soft Skills:

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to work with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and project management skills to handle multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Ability to work under pressure in high-stress environments with compassion and empathy.
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills to address complex issues during disaster recovery.

Adaptability:

• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and mobilize within 24-48 hours for deployments.
• Willingness to work extended hours, weekends, or overnight shifts during emergencies.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires deployment to disaster sites, often in challenging conditions, for extended periods. Candidates must be willing to travel and relocate temporarily to assist in responding to disaster events. The role may involve irregular hours, including 12 to 16-hour shifts, and work outside regular business hours during emergencies.

Initial Response and Assessment:

• Conduct site visits and assist in the development of Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) to document disaster-related damage to public infrastructure.
• Collaborate with federal, state, and local officials on behalf of our clients to assess the impact of disasters and validate eligibility for PA funding.

Program Delivery and Grant Management:

• Assist Royal’s clients in developing detailed damage descriptions, scopes of work, and cost estimates for restoration projects.
• Prepare and review Project Worksheets (PWs) for accuracy, ensuring compliance with FEMA’s Public Assistance Program and Policy Guide (PAPPG).
• Use FEMA’s Grants Portal to register applicants, process applications, and track project progress
• Provide technical assistance on federal regulations, including the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.

Coordination and Communication:

• Coordinate with relevant stakeholders, including clients and state, local, and federal agencies, to streamline relief efforts and ensure resource allocation.
• Advocate for applicants, assisting with appeals of federal decisions when warranted.

Project Oversight and Closeout:

• Monitor project progress and ensure proper record-keeping for audit trails.
• Assist with claims for reimbursement, reviewing requests for advance funding, and final payments.
• Prepare reports, workbooks, and other documentation to support program delivery and compliance.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement disaster preparedness plans and provide training on disaster response procedures.
• Work in challenging field conditions, including extended travel and deployment to disaster sites, potentially for 2-8 weeks.
• Perform tasks in the Disaster Field Office, including working irregular hours or 12-16-hour shifts during emergencies.