Substantial Damage Estimator

Location: Pensacola, FL
Employment Type: Contract
Compensation: $40/hr

Position Summary
The Substantial Damage Estimator supports disaster recovery and community resilience operations by conducting on-site evaluations of flood-affected structures and documenting the extent and estimated cost of damage. This role helps communities apply FEMA and local substantial-damage requirements and supports accurate, consistent rebuilding decisions.

About Critical Response Strategies
Critical Response Strategies (CRS) provides mission-critical support to government, emergency management, and community resilience operations. We support complex programs that require disciplined coordination, technical expertise, regulatory compliance, and practical solutions in fast-moving environments.

CRS Purpose
Critical Response Strategies' purpose is to bring order to complexity. Every position supports CRS's ability to deliver disciplined, professional, and mission-focused services in complex operational environments.

CRS Values
Mission First - Every role supports mission execution and recovery operations.
Integrity in Action - We earn trust through disciplined actions, honest communication, and accountability.
Respect for People & Purpose - We treat people professionally, work collaboratively, and remain focused on the communities and missions we serve.

Key Responsibilities
• Conduct detailed on-site inspections of structures affected by flooding and other disaster impacts.
• Document observed damage using photographs, measurements, written notes, and other required assessment records.
• Estimate repair costs and compare estimated damage to the market value of each structure.
• Evaluate whether a property meets substantial-damage criteria in accordance with applicable FEMA guidance and local ordinances.
• Use FEMA SDE Estimator 3.0 to support calculations, documentation, and determination records.
• Communicate assessment findings clearly and professionally to property owners, local officials, and community stakeholders as required.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and timely project records and follow established quality-control procedures.
• Coordinate with CRS personnel, local agencies, and other recovery partners to support efficient field operations.

Required Qualifications
• Solid knowledge of building construction, repair methods, and common structural components.
• Previous experience in damage assessment, property appraisal, construction assessment, floodplain management, or a related field.
• Familiarity with FEMA substantial-damage regulations and floodplain management standards.
• Proficiency with FEMA SDE Estimator 3.0 software.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with property owners and public-agency representatives.
• FEMA IS-285 and IS-284.A certifications are required.
• Ability to maintain accuracy and sound judgment in fast-paced, high-stakes field environments.

Preferred Qualifications
• Prior disaster response or recovery experience.
• Additional experience with floodplain management, building inspection, estimating, appraisal, or related technical assessment work.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a mission-driven field team.

Work Environment
• Work is primarily field-based and may occur in disaster-affected communities and on damaged properties.
• The role may require frequent walking, standing, entering structures, taking measurements, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Schedules may include extended hours and may change based on project needs, client priorities, weather, and operational tempo.
• Travel to assigned project locations may be required.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Critical Response Strategies, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Drug-Free Workplace
Critical Response Strategies is a drug-free workplace. Employment may be contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment screening requirements, which may include drug testing, background checks, verification of identity and work authorization, credential verification, and any other position-specific requirements. Employees are expected to comply with CRS policies, site requirements, and all applicable safety and conduct standards throughout employment.

Salary : $40