Emergency management directors prepare plans and procedures for responding to natural disasters or other emergencies. They also help lead the response during and after emergencies, often in coordination with public safety officials, elected officials, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies.

Most emergency management directors work for state or local governments. However, others may work for private companies, hospitals, or nonprofit organizations.

Emergency management directors typically need a bachelor's degree, as well as multiple years of work experience in emergency response, disaster planning, or public administration.

The median annual wage for emergency management directors was $67,330 in May 2015.

Employment of emergency management directors is projected to grow 6 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. A growing number of emergency management directors will be needed to develop response plans to protect people and property, and to limit the damage from emergencies and disasters.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for emergency management directors.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of emergency management directors with similar occupations.

Learn more about emergency management directors by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.