Subject Matter Expert - Public Assistance

Are you looking for an opportunity to truly make a difference? Do you want to join a collaborative, mission-driven team that protects the planet, strengthens communities, and supports businesses when they need it most? Are you seeking a place where your work contributes directly to an organization known for excellence in environmental services, crisis management, and emergency response? If your answer is “yes,” then you belong at Ambipar.

We are currently recruiting for an Public Assistance Expert. The key responsibility of the role will be to provide technical assistance to the client in relation to the FEMA regulations associated with the Public Assistance program.

Position Details
Reports to: Project Manager
Location: Remote
Position Type: On-Call / Part time
Compensation: Commensurate with experience

Essential Job Functions
Establish partnerships with FEMA, State, and applicant.

Provide program oversight and expert technical assistance on recovery planning and community development related policies, principles, and procedures.

Conduct site visits representing the state/local agency or as a member of a negotiation team.

Coordinate with FEMA and State Environmental agencies on all environmental issues and historic guidance.

Independently perform technical work of a high degree of difficulty requiring the exercise of originality, initiative, and practical judgment in the application and adaptation of standardized engineering techniques and methods.

Perform technical services functions and provides advice in the management of long-term community recovery components such as; disaster damage and impact assessments teams, and long-term community recovery operations within the disaster field offices, regional offices and public assistance closeout offices.

Analyze and evaluates selected project applications, supporting documentation, and federal agency inspection reports for accuracy and compliance with applicable FEMA policies and procedures.

Minimum Job Requirements

Bachelor's degree in business or a related field.

10+ years of experience as a FEMA, State or Local Public Assistance Officer

Relevant professional certification (i.e., P.E., CFM, AIA, PCM, PMP)

Completion of FEMA/EMI Advanced Professional Series or Professional Development Series, ICS series

Knowledge of Federal and State Recovery Programs and Initiatives, Public Assistance and its implementing regulations

Knowledge and experience with engineering principles and practices as they relate to PA programs

Knowledge and skill in applying analytical and evaluative techniques to the identification, consideration, and resolution of a wide variety of grants administration issues and problems

Significant experience addressing strategic issues in disaster recovery operations including issues that have complex political and programmatic elements

Excellent oral and written communication skills

Ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects in a changing work environment

Ability to work independently and/or on a team

Strong organizational skills

Exceptional research skills

Comfortable interacting with Clients and Client Stakeholders-

Proficient computer skills: (including MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint; Adobe Acrobat Professional)

Preferred Job Requirements

Post graduate degree in homeland security, emergency management/planning or other related subject.

Work Schedule

Ability to work anywhere from 40 hours per week to up to 80 depending on project needs

May require deployment within 24 hours of notification

May be asked to work irregular/extended work hours

May work at other locations than assigned TDY

May require relocating to emergency sites that require functioning under intense physical and mental stress

Job Description Disclaimer

This position description incorporates the core responsibilities of the job. 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.

Commitment To Diversity
Witt O'Brien's is always looking for the most qualified and experienced professionals with a passion for public safety, emergency management, homeland security, disaster response, and continuity of operations.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veteran/Disabled

With you when it counts.

About Witt O'Brien's / Ambipar Response

Are you looking for an opportunity to truly make a difference? Do you want to join a collaborative, mission-driven team that protects the planet, strengthens communities, and supports businesses when they need it most? Are you seeking a place where your work contributes directly to an organization known for excellence in environmental services, crisis management, and emergency response?

If your answer is “yes,” then you belong at Ambipar.

Ambipar is a global leader in environmental and emergency management solutions. In the United States, our diverse portfolio spans emergency consulting and risk mitigation, grants management support, 24/7 emergency response, environmental remediation, industrial services, business continuity, and disaster recovery. Through our Witt O'Brien's consulting business, we help communities build resilience in a rapidly changing world—advising clients on how to mitigate risk, prepare for crises, respond effectively, and recover stronger.

Across the country, our emergency response teams manage environmental incidents of all types—from chemical and hazardous waste spills to silo fire suppression and industrial vacuum services. We also deliver specialized training programs that equip emergency responders with the skills they need to act swiftly and safely.

As the frequency and complexity of both natural and human-made disasters continue to grow, the need for our expertise has never been greater. We invite you to join an ambitious, forward-thinking team of top professionals who are committed to safeguarding people, communities, and the environment. Together, we can take our organization—and your career—to the next level.