Are you looking for an opportunity to truly make a difference? Do you want to join a collaborative, mission-driven team that protects the planet, strengthens communities, and supports businesses when they need it most? Are you seeking a place where your work contributes directly to an organization known for excellence in environmental services, crisis management, and emergency response? If your answer is “yes,” then you belong at Ambipar.
We are currently recruiting for an Public Assistance Expert. The key responsibility of the role will be to provide technical assistance to the client in relation to the FEMA regulations associated with the Public Assistance program.
Reports to: Project Manager
Location: Remote
Position Type: On-Call / Part time
Compensation: Commensurate with experience
Establish partnerships with FEMA, State, and applicant.
Provide program oversight and expert technical assistance on recovery planning and community development related policies, principles, and procedures.
Conduct site visits representing the state/local agency or as a member of a negotiation team.
Coordinate with FEMA and State Environmental agencies on all environmental issues and historic guidance.
Independently perform technical work of a high degree of difficulty requiring the exercise of originality, initiative, and practical judgment in the application and adaptation of standardized engineering techniques and methods.
Perform technical services functions and provides advice in the management of long-term community recovery components such as; disaster damage and impact assessments teams, and long-term community recovery operations within the disaster field offices, regional offices and public assistance closeout offices.
Analyze and evaluates selected project applications, supporting documentation, and federal agency inspection reports for accuracy and compliance with applicable FEMA policies and procedures.
Bachelor's degree in business or a related field.
10+ years of experience as a FEMA, State or Local Public Assistance Officer
Relevant professional certification (i.e., P.E., CFM, AIA, PCM, PMP)
Completion of FEMA/EMI Advanced Professional Series or Professional Development Series, ICS series
Knowledge of Federal and State Recovery Programs and Initiatives, Public Assistance and its implementing regulations
Knowledge and experience with engineering principles and practices as they relate to PA programs
Knowledge and skill in applying analytical and evaluative techniques to the identification, consideration, and resolution of a wide variety of grants administration issues and problems
Significant experience addressing strategic issues in disaster recovery operations including issues that have complex political and programmatic elements
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects in a changing work environment
Ability to work independently and/or on a team
Strong organizational skills
Exceptional research skills
Comfortable interacting with Clients and Client Stakeholders-
Proficient computer skills: (including MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint; Adobe Acrobat Professional)
Post graduate degree in homeland security, emergency management/planning or other related subject.
Ability to work anywhere from 40 hours per week to up to 80 depending on project needs
May require deployment within 24 hours of notification
May be asked to work irregular/extended work hours
May work at other locations than assigned TDY
May require relocating to emergency sites that require functioning under intense physical and mental stress
This position description incorporates the core responsibilities of the job. 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.
Witt O'Brien's is always looking for the most qualified and experienced professionals with a passion for public safety, emergency management, homeland security, disaster response, and continuity of operations.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veteran/Disabled
With you when it counts.
Ambipar USA is a specialized partner for high-hazard, high-consequence operations, combining industrial services, emergency response, and environmental solutions into one integrated platform. Ambipar operates a network of service locations and response bases, positioned to support industrial facilities, transportation corridors, ports, terminals, and energy infrastructure with 24/7 coverage. Our teams are built around HAZMAT and complex incident management, with recognized expertise in chemical, petrochemical, and multi-commodity risk. From tank cleaning, integrity work, and plant maintenance to spill response, remediation, and waste management, we support the lifecycle of industrial assets with safe, compliant, and cost-effective execution.
Ambipar is a leading commercial hazmat response organization, with experience managing large-scale chemical releases, oil spills, fires, and multi-agency emergencies across all modes of transportation. Our teams specialize in containment, product transfer, neutralization, and decontamination, using advanced equipment and engineered systems to stabilize incidents and protect people, assets, and the environment. This capability is backed by 24/7 command center, technical support, and a broad response network.
Beyond immediate response, Ambipar delivers environmental solutions that cover remediation, hazardous waste packaging, transport and disposal, plus long-term recovery programs. We align practices with stringent regulatory requirements, helping clients reduce environmental liabilities while maintaining business continuity and protecting reputation. Our portfolio also includes industrial cleaning, confined space work, decommissioning, and specialized projects in complex, high-risk environments. For clients seeking a single partner to manage hazardous materials, complex operations, and environmental risk, Ambipar provides an integrated, incident-tested solution from preparedness through response and recovery.
