Emergency Management Officer

Tasks & duties

Emergency management officers may do some or all of the following:

• develop civil defence emergency management plans
• provide advice and education on emergency preparedness to the community and local businesses
• develop disaster simulations and exercises to test operational plans
• set up and operate emergency operation centres
• liaise with emergency services such as the police
• maintain and check specialist emergency equipment
• give specialist advice in response to local emergencies
• research hazards that threaten the community
• write reports and operational procedures and policies
• organise and deliver training to staff and volunteers
• speak to the media about emergency management issues

Some emergency management officers also contribute to the creation and enforcement of bylaws for rural fire, occupational safety and health, environmental pollution and dangerous goods.

Skills & knowledge

Emergency management officers need to have:

• excellent oral and written communication skills
• excellent relationship management skills
• knowledge of emergency management legislation
• project management skills
• good record-keeping skills
• knowledge of risk management
• presentation skills
• computer skills
• first aid skills

Entry Requirements

To become an emergency management officer, it is recommended you complete an emergency management qualification. Information about courses and training is available from the Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management, the Local Government Industry Training Organisation, and the Fire and Rescue Services Industry Training Organisation.

You may need to hold a full driver’s licence, and must not have any criminal convictions.

Secondary Education

At least three years of secondary education is recommended. Useful subjects include English, geography, history and social studies.

Training on the job

Many employers offer additional training and professional development opportunities to emergency management officers. Courses range from first aid to management.

Emergency management officers are often involved in local and national training exercises to help them prepare for events.

Useful Experience

Useful experience for emergency management officers includes:

• work for the police, ambulance services, the NZ Fire Service, or the NZ Defence Force
• social work, nursing or any public health roles, including policy development
• risk management, or hazard analysis
• engineering or community development
• the study of social and physical sciences
• land search and rescue activities

Experience as a surf lifesaver or coastguard is also useful. 

Some people begin their career in emergency management as volunteers for community groups or councils. This is often a good way to get the experience and contacts needed to enter the role.

Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management website - information about volunteering for your local civil defence organisation

Related courses

Fire Technology and Rescue Services
First Aid
Paramedical Studies

For more information, please refer to Career Services.