What are the responsibilities and job description for the Disaster Related Specialist – FEMA Cost Recovery position at HJ Staffing?
About the Role
HJ Staffing is seeking highly experienced Disaster Related Specialists to provide financial, compliance, and documentation support for FEMA Public Assistance (PA), TDEM coordination, COVID-19 cost recovery, and federal disaster reimbursement efforts. These positions will work remotely and support high-level analysis, invoice review, FEMA documentation, and federal program closeout activities.
This role requires strong experience in emergency management, disaster finance, federal grants, and FEMA PA documentation. Candidates must be able to interpret federal regulations, manage complex cost-recovery files, and coordinate with state and federal partners.
Key Responsibilities
Review contracts, invoices, timesheets, equipment logs, and material records for accuracy and FEMA compliance
Perform detailed COVID-19 vendor invoice validation and cost documentation review
Coordinate with FEMA, TDEM, and other agencies to resolve project-level issues
Prepare and upload documentation into FEMA PA systems and portals
Respond to FEMA Requests for Information (RFIs) and provide supplemental data
Draft and support FEMA appeals and closeout packages
Support financial reconciliation, audit readiness, and compliance review
Develop project formulation documents in accordance with FEMA PA guidelines
Provide training to state or client personnel on FEMA reimbursement processes
Track deliverables, timelines, milestones, and project requirements
Assist with surge staffing needs during disaster events
Document lessons learned and submit required reports
Ensure all activities comply with 44 CFR, Stafford Act, Disaster Mitigation Act, and federal disaster recovery rules
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree (required)
Ability to work 12-hour shifts when requested
Excellent documentation, communication, and problem-solving skills
Ability to interpret federal regulations including:
44 CFR
Stafford Act
Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
Required Training & Certifications
(Candidates must have completed or be willing to provide proof of the following:)
ICS-100: Introduction to the Incident Command System
ICS-200: Basic ICS
ICS-700: NIMS Introduction
ICS-800: National Response Framework
ICS-900: National Disaster Recovery Framework Overview
All-Hazards Finance/Admin Section Chief (E/L0973) – preferred
All-Hazards Finance/Admin Unit Leader (E/L0975) – preferred
Preferred Experience
FEMA Validate-As-You-Go (VAYGo) review experience
COVID-19 cost documentation and vendor payment validation
Emergency Medical Task Force (EMTF) invoice reconciliation
Federal and state audit support
Large-volume disaster financial documentation
Additional Requirements
Must pass state and federal criminal background checks
Must be 18 years old
Must maintain professional conduct and confidentiality
Must be able to respond to urgent requests within required timeframes