Disaster Recovery Project Manager

Job Description

Position Summary:

Tidal Basin has an opportunity for a proven disaster recovery professional to provide leadership and operational oversight for disaster recovery projects. The Disaster Recovery Project Manager (DRPM) is responsible for leading and managing disaster recovery projects supporting federal, state, local government, tribal clients and private non-profit organizations. This role oversees the planning, execution, and closeout of recovery programs, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, including Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) guidelines, while delivering high-quality services to impacted communities.

The DRPM serves as the primary point of contact for clients and stakeholders, providing leadership to multidisciplinary teams and ensuring timely, compliant, and effective recovery operations. The DRPM is knowledgeable and experienced in a variety of federal programs to include FEMA Public Assistance (PA), FEMA Individual Assistance (IA), and Hazard Mitigation (FEMA 406). As a DRPM, you will deploy for extended periods of time to work closely with clients and others, guiding them through the recovery process.

Job Duties and Responsibilities include:

Project Leadership & Execution

• Lead end-to-end disaster recovery projects including mobilization, operations, and closeout
• Develop and implement project plans, timelines, and resource strategies
• Oversee daily operations to ensure alignment with client objectives and contract requirements
• Monitor project performance, identify risks, and implement corrective actions
• Assist with business development and participate in proposal support with technical writing, and subject matter expertise to support growth initiatives

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Serve as primary liaison to clients and stakeholders
• Facilitate meetings, briefings, and status updates with leadership and partners
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including state, local parties, subcontractors, and community partners to support long-term engagement

Program Compliance & Oversight

• Provide technical assistance and subject matter expertise to ensure compliance with FEMA programs (e.g. PA, IA, Mitigation)
• Interpret and apply federal regulations including 2 CFR Part 200 and applicable state/local policies
• Develop federal grant applications (FEMA Project Worksheets) for all Categories of Work, provide reviews and quality assurance as to damage descriptions, scope of work, cost estimates, and general content
• Oversee documentation, reporting, and audit readiness

Team Leadership

• Lead multidisciplinary teams including project staff, subcontractors, and field personnel
• Monitor and evaluate delivery and implementation of Recovery programs ensuring work products are accurate, compliant, and audit ready
• Make recommendations to improve performance and ensure quality of programs
• Perform coaching, performance oversight, and guidance to team members
• Ensure health and safety guidelines are established and followed
• Ensure completion of required training

Financial & Operational Management

• Manage project budgets, cost controls, and financial tracking
• Review invoices, timesheets, expense reports, and financial reports for accuracy and compliance
• Ensure efficient utilization of resources and adherence to contract terms and internal procedures

Reporting & Documentation

• Prepare executive-level reports, client reports, dashboards, and briefings
• Ensure accurate and timely submission of deliverables
• Maintain organized project documentation to support audits and closeout
• Prepare Project Management Plan and update as needed

Skills and Competencies:

• Deep understanding of project management and consulting services
• Skilled in addressing strategic issues in disaster recovery operations including issues with complex political and programmatic elements
• Advanced computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite applications
• Proficient in the use of FEMA Disaster Systems, including Grants Portal
• Excellent communication skills and knowledge in applying analytical and evaluative techniques to the identification, consideration, and resolution of a wide variety of grant administration issues
• Possess a valid state issued driver's license and a satisfactory driving record

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Emergency Management, Public Administration, Business, Engineering/Construction Management, or related field
• 5-10+ years of experience in disaster recovery, emergency management, or government consulting
• Demonstrated experience managing large-scale recovery programs or projects
• Strong knowledge and experience of FEMA programs, policies, and procedures
• Experience with federal grant management and compliance requirements
• Proven ability to lead teams in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification preferred

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

• Deployment required: Travel to disaster-impacted areas with extended stays as needed to meet operational requirements
• Work performed in both office and field environments based on client needs
• Extended periods of sitting, standing, walking and working on a computer
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. as needed

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 accommodation 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.