Career Paths

Nearly 100% of MSDM students are employed either when they graduate or, in some cases, prior to graduation. Having a Master of Security and Disaster Management degree helps the marketability of each student and it demonstrates your focus, discipline, knowledge and experience.

Having a master’s degree in security and disaster management provides the knowledge and skills to be successful in management and supervisor positions in the following career areas:

  • Disaster response coordination
  • Fire departments
  • Homeland security
  • Emergency medical services
  • Program coordination
  • Emergency management
  • Red Cross
  • Military
  • Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
  • Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
  • Local, state and federal government jobs
  • Law enforcement
  • Business continuity
  • Risk management
Current Job Postings
  • November 05, 2024

    The Student Task Force (STF) is a Human Rights Watch (HRW) sponsored youth leadership-training program that brings together high school students from Southern California and empowers them to advocate for the human rights of children. HRW STF staff and STF teachers partner to mentor students in leadership skills and activism, fostering confidence and maturity among students, enabling them to become effective voices for change and social justice within their communities. For more information on the Human Rights Watch Student Task Force, please visit www.hrwstf.org.HRW STF is seeking a Youth Advocacy Assistant to provide advocacy assistance to the team. The selected candidate must be available for 16 or 27 hours per week for the spring semester, January 6 – May 23, 2025. The position is based in the Los Angeles office and reports to the STF Senior Manager.The successful candidate will be encouraged to work from the office 2-3 days per week but can do some hours remotely throughout the week. We aim to be as flexible and supportive as possible in both the recruitment and onboarding of this position.Responsibilities:Support the implementation of advocacy activities for the spring 2025 human rights action plan, by:a. Providing administrative support in the creation of advocacy activities and materials; andb. Assisting the STF team with advocacy activities at assigned schools;Liaise with student leaders and faculty advisors at STF chapters, including but not limited to:a. Monitoring assigned STF chapter activities and reporting back to the STF Senior Manager; andb. Supporting student leaders in the planning and execution of advocacy activities at assigned STF chapters;Assist with the implementation of strategies and tools to equip students to be knowledgeable and effective human rights activists by assisting the STF team with the implementation of said strategies and tools;Prepare, format, edit and distribute communications, correspondence and documents for assigned STF chapters;Provide administrative support including proofreading, formatting and distributing materials, scheduling and preparing for meetings, and responding to inquiries; andCarry out other duties as required.Qualifications:Education: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience/training in a related field is desired. Those currently enrolled in university courses are encouraged to apply. Candidates with a passion for human rights work are encouraged to apply.Experience: A minimum of one year of relevant work experience is preferred.Related Skills and Knowledge:Experience working with middle school, high school and/or university students is required. Experience with advocacy and working with volunteers is highly desirable.Excellent written and oral communications skills in English are required.Prior office/administration experience, meticulous attention to detail, flexibility and strong organizational skills are required.Computer skills (i.e. MS Word, MS Excel, and internet applications) are required. Experience with graphic design, web design, social media and online communication tools are preferred.Quick learner, creative thinker, and productive worker who is able to meet frequent deadlines is required.Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well under pressure while juggling multiple tasks simultaneously are required.Self-motivation and the ability to prioritize with minimal supervision and work independently as well as function as a member of a team are required.Commitment to HRW’s mission and human rights values.Other: Applicants for this position must possess valid US work authorization. This position is part time (16 or 27 hours per week) and should start no later than Monday, January 6, 2024.Salary and Benefits: The salary for this position is $22.76 an hour.  How to Apply: Please apply immediately or by December 1, 2024 by visiting our online job portal at https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/humanrightswatch/jobs/7715277002 and attaching a cover letter and resume, preferably as PDF files. No calls or email inquiries, please. Only complete applications will be reviewed, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

  • November 05, 2024

    In this Local Hire (Emergency Management Specialist 4) position, you will serve as a member of the disaster recovery staff in aiding individuals or communities impacted by disasters.Typical assignments include:Assisting in preparing field office emergency management plans and policies, procedures, and risk assessments to ensure essential functions are executed, and are consistent with statutory and agency requirements.Facilitating on-going communications with internal operations staff and corresponding operational staff of other Federal agencies.Performing on-site damage assessments in order to assist in the development plans that ensure the capability to continue essential functions.Analyzing inspection reports, final vouchers, and Federal and/or State audit reports on public assistance programs, and preparing recommendations for required follow-up actions.Writing technical materials, including reports of research findings, technical reports, and specifications.Please review the entire job announcement and apply online at:USAJOBS - Job Announcement

  • November 05, 2024

    In this Local Hire (Environmental Floodplain Specialist) position, you will provide technical assistance to facilitate floodplain management in support of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and HM strategy objectives and requirements.Typical assignments include:Ensuring compliance with all applicable floodplain management regulations, ordinances, executive orders, policies, and guidance to meet the goals of the HM strategy and the FEMA mission.Gathering, reviewing, and organizing disaster-related information and field data.Identifying goals, objectives, actions, and tasks to accomplish state and local Hazard Mitigation (HM) priorities.Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with internal and external partners, local and state officials, city/county/parish councils, building officials, and floodplain managers.Completing floodplain determinations for proposed temporary housing sites and Public Assistance project sites.Please review the entire job announcement and apply online at:USAJOBS - Job Announcement

  • November 05, 2024

    Arlington County’s Police Department (ACPD) is seeking a Police Policy Writer to operate as the primary writer, researcher, and editor of the Arlington County Police Department’s policy manual. The Police Policy Writer supports the Department’s accreditation efforts by maintaining an up-to-date policy manual and assisting with collection of standards proofs. This position will require a strong writer who is self-motivated and able to regularly meet deadlines. Applicants should have strong written and oral communication skills and possess the ability to demonstrate excellent writing, formatting, and editing skills. This position is on-site and requires the employee to work from the office with limited Telework options. The salary range for this position is: $79,123.20 - $122,657.60All applicants are required to undergo a background check with polygraph. Benefits include, but are not limited to:Basic & Supplemental Life InsuranceDefined Benefit (Pension), 401a, 457 and DROP plansAccess to Voya Financial AdvisorsFlexible Spending AccountsMedical, Dental, & VisionPaid Holidays & Volunteer LeaveVacation, Sick, Parental, Family, & Bereavement Leave Tuition ReimbursementEmployee Assistance ProgramPlease click on the external application link for additional information. 

  • November 05, 2024

    Non-Certified Police RecruitPolice Recruit (while going to the Academy and during the Field Training Program): $65,208 annually*After one year of continuous service: $66,696 annually*After six consecutive years of service: $85,200 annually* This is protective service work at the trainee level in the enforcement of laws and ordinances for the protection of life and property. Work requires a basic knowledge of techniques, methods, and procedures used in law enforcement activities such as restoring and maintaining order, conducting preliminary investigations and apprehension of criminals which is acquired through specialized training and on-the-job experience. Contacts require skills in understanding human behavior and those factors which influence or cause behavioral changes and are critical in adversarial and confrontational situations. Work follows standard operating procedures. Trainees are confronted with differing situations which require quick assessment and the use of judgment to resolve the incident at hand. Work is performed in the field in an uncontrolled environment, where risks and hazards are substantial, generally unknown and unpredictable, and possibly uncontrollable. Operates police vehicle equipped with mobile radio and other electronic data, communication devices, firearms, restraining devices, and related law enforcement equipment. Work requires sitting and walking for long periods of time and requires physical exertion in pursuit and restraint of individuals. Work is performed under direct supervision where the work assignments vary and are although subject to standard practices and procedures. QUALIFICATIONSBe at least 21-years of ageBe a citizen of the United States of AmericaMust possess a valid driver’s license in your state of residenceApplicants must have a High School diploma or GED equivalent (official transcripts required)Must have completed one of the following:Two and a half (2.5) years of continuous active military service documented with a DD 214, orFour years of full time law enforcement experience, orFour years of service in the military reserves and an Associate’s degree or equivalent (60 semester / 90 quarter hours / official transcripts required), orTwo years of full time law enforcement experience and an Associate’s degree or equivalent (60 semester / 90 quarter hours / official transcripts required), orFive years of continuous full time employment and an Associate’s degree or equivalent (60 semester / 90 quarter hours / official transcripts required), orFour years currently employed as a full time civilian with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and an Associate’s degree or equivalent (60 semester / 90 quarter hours / official transcripts required), orFour years currently employed as a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Correctional Officer, Community Service Officer, Certified Bailiff, or Judicial Officer, orTwo years currently employed as a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Correctional Officer, Community Service Officer, Certified Bailiff, or Judicial Officer and an Associate’s degree or equivalent (60 semester / 90 quarter hours / official transcripts required), orPossess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university (official transcripts required)Successful completion of the Edward Waters University "3+1" Criminal Justice program. For more information, please visit: https://www.ewc.edu/departments/criminal-justice-and-forensic-science/Be in good physical condition. Please see below for more information about the Police Physical Abilities Test.Must be able to run a mile in under 12 minutes.Be of good moral characterTATTOOS:Tattoos are NOT permitted on the face or neck (if visible while wearing a collared shirt).One visible tattoo on each hand, not to exceed one inch in measurement in all directions is permitted.One ring band tattoo is permitted on each hand.Tattoos behind the ear cannot exceed one inch in measurement in all directions and cannot extend forward of the ear lobe.Any visible tattoo (e.g., on the hand, behind the ear) will not be permitted if deemed unacceptable.NOT HAVE received a dishonorable discharge from any of the Armed ForcesNOT HAVE been convicted of any felonyNOT HAVE been convicted of a misdemeanor involving false statement, perjury or domestic violenceIN ADDITION, the following areas may result in applicants being suspended from the hiring process: credit history including bankruptcy and collections; past drug use; inappropriate social media; driving history, work history; criminal activity and associations with known criminals; and inappropriate tattoos.If you don't meet the requirements to become a police officer we encourage you to explore the other opportunities available at the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. *Salaries listed are pending approval by the Jacksonville City Council. If approved, all salaries listed above are effective October 5, 2024. Paycheck calculations are based on 26 pay periods and before any taxes or deductions. These base salaries typically increase every year in accordance with applicable collective bargaining agreements. Other pay premiums include shift differential, working out-of-classification, state career incentives for advanced training.

  • November 05, 2024

    SummaryAs a Security Assistant at the GS-0086-5, you will be part of Suitability Executive Agent Programs, Office of Personnel Management. If selected, you will be responsible for interacting with other Federal Agencies to provide technical advice or to coordinate and take suitability actions.This job is open to Career transition (CTAP, ICTAP, RPL) Federal employees who meet the definition of a "surplus" or "displaced" employee. The public U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.DutiesReview routine /non-routine referrals of applicant suitability requests that include, but are not limited to, debarment referrals and investigations that contain major issues.Make recommendations for review by a Personnel Security Specialist that include accepting referrals, return the referral to an agency if issues do not warrant OPM, and closing or returning a case that was inappropriately referred.Request additional information from agencies, from the subject, and from sources; to obtain information to establish jurisdiction or clarify or resolve issues in cases.RequirementsConditions of Employment Must be a U.S. Citizen or NationalMales born after 12-31-59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service (see https://www.sss.gov/Home/Registration)Suitable for Federal employment, determined by a background investigationMay be required to successfully complete a probationary periodComplete the initial online assessment and USAHire Assessment, if requiredThis position is not eligible for inclusion in a bargaining unit Qualifications For the GS 5: You must have one-year specialized experience at the GS-04 grade level or equivalent which includes: 1) maintaining files or generating correspondence with internal or external customers; 2) updating personnel records containing sensitive information; 3) reviewing documents for accuracy prior to entering information into a database.OREducation: Four years of education above the high school level obtained in an accredited business, secretarial or technical school, junior college, college or university. (You must submit Transcripts).ORCombination of Education and Experience: A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. To compute the percentage of the requirements, divide your total months of experience by 12. Then divide your semester hours of education beyond two years (total semester hours minus 60) by 60. Add the two percentages. (You must submit Transcripts).You must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Additional information Incentive payments may be considered.This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional similar vacancies across OPM.If you are unable to apply online and would like to request information about the Alternate Application process, please use the contact information at the bottom of this announcement.Career Transition Assistance Programs: These programs apply to employees who have been involuntarily separated from a Federal service position within the competitive service or Federal service employees whose positions have been deemed surplus or no longer needed. To receive selection priority for this position, you must: 1) meet CTAP or ICTAP eligibility criteria; 2) be rated well-qualified for the position and 3) submit the appropriate documentation to support your CTAP or ICTAP eligibility. For more information visit: http://www.opm.gov/rif/employee_guides/career_transition.asp.Reasonable Accommodation Requests: If you believe you have a disability (i.e., physical or mental), covered by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended and Americans with Disabilities Act 1990 as amended, that would interfere with completing the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, you will be granted the opportunity to request a reasonable accommodation in your online application. Requests for Reasonable Accommodations for the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments and appropriate supporting documentation for Reasonable Accommodation must be received prior to starting the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. Decisions on requests for Reasonable Accommodations are made on a case-by-case basis. If you meet the minimum qualifications of the position, after notification of the adjudication of your request, you will receive an email invitation to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, based on your adjudication decision. You must complete all assessments within 48 hours of receiving the URL to access the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, if you received the link after the close of the announcement. To determine if you need a Reasonable Accommodation, please review the Procedures for Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for Online Assessments here: https://help.usastaffing.gov/Apply/index.php?title=Reasonable_Accommodations_for_USA_Hire  

  • November 05, 2024

    SummaryIn this position, you will provide community outreach for Hazard Mitigation programs.Typical assignments include:Providing advice and assistance on Hazard Mitigation program concepts, rules, regulations, and processes through a variety of venues; including Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs), retail outlets, community meetings and the news media.Implementing educational strategies to education communities on the impact of adopting damage prevention measures.Providing basic community and education and outreach technical assistance to internal and external partners.Collecting mitigation-specific disaster data to support operational adjustments.Recording disaster survivor interactions, trends, and emerging issues.Please review the entire job announcement and apply online at:USAJOBS - Job Announcement

  • November 05, 2024

    In this Local Hire (Public Assistance Program Delivery Manager) position, you will report to the Public Assistance Program Delivery Task Force Lead and serve as the primary point of contact for the applicant.FEMA is seeking candidates with experience in delivering Public Assistance grant funding.Typical assignments include:Tracking and communicating the progress of all projects through the entire program delivery model in coordination with the Applicant.Engaging program offices as soon as potential opportunities or concerns arise.Discussing potential Hazard Mitigation opportunities with the Applicant.Hosting key information meetings ensuring recovery priorities and program eligibility requirements are communicated.Gathering all required documentation to enable FEMA to write grants so the applicant can be returned to their Pre-Disaster condition as soon as possible.Facilitating the delivery of Public Assistance grant funding on behalf of Applicants; this includes (but is not limited to) developing the list of damaged sites, scheduling site inspections, summarizing applicant damages, and coordinating requests for information and questions.Working with the applicants to resolve their program related needs ensuring projects are processed as efficiently and expeditiously as possible.Please review the entire job announcement and apply online at:USAJOBS - Job Announcement

  • November 05, 2024

    In this Local Hire (Community Planning Expert Specialist) position, you will provide guidance and assistance on community events.Typical assignments include:Developing a local planning process and program for a community including timelines, budgets, staffing plans, and methods.Provide expertise in technical planning, such as, zoning, land use, transportation, data analysis and comprehensive planning.Manage and coordinate the work of a planning support team.Please review the entire job announcement and apply online at:USAJOBS - Job Announcement

  • November 05, 2024

    As a Local Hire (Civil Rights Specialist) typical assignments include:Providing administrative support to the Lead Civil Rights Advisor and Civil Rights Team.Composing, creating, and editing correspondence, letters, and reports.Providing general information related to office operations to the public, both orally and in writing.Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the office.

Please note: These job postings are pulled from our university-wide career site, . Job postings appear on this list based on the degrees and other options chosen by employers when listing their job opportunity. You may see some position listings that do not appear to be directly related to this degree. However, they are positions that an individual with this degree could also explore - either while still a student or after graduation. This also does not represent an exhaustive list of all opportunities to which a student with this degree may apply, but simply a sample of currently available positions. You can view all available jobs on Handshake by clicking the link above or by clicking the "More Jobs" link at the bottom of the listing section.

Robert Ituarte

The online MSDM gives me the opportunity to expand my specialized knowledge and offer applicable expertise in the field, volunteering with my city’s Emergency Operations Center in regional training activities.

ROBERT ITUARTE
BEM 2017, MSDM 2017