2026 Disaster Response Team Member

Position Summary 

SCA, America’s #1 conservation service organization seeks qualified applicants to participate in disaster recovery and response projects in the Florida Panhandle in response to Hurricane Isaias. SCA is a part of AmeriCorps Disaster Response Teams, a coalition of service programs from across the country dedicated to mobilizing our members to provide critical services at disaster sites. Disaster response and recovery is rewarding work, but it is also emotionally and physically challenging. You will be working with communities that have undergone significant trauma and loss. Compassion, resilience, creativity, tenacity, and self-awareness are essential. Once deployed, members will have little to no time off. Additionally, members and leaders should be prepared to work and live in challenging conditions with little infrastructure. Projects may include mucking and gutting, mold remediation, restoration of natural areas, donations management, volunteer management, administrative work and more

Schedule

November 9, 2026 - December 7, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

Possible disaster recovery activities include; Complete basic construction tasks and lead teams of volunteers in construction work; Deploy to recent disasters to support critical response activities; Perform administrative service in the areas of logistics, community relations, individual and public assistance, planning, preparedness, and recovery activities; Conducting data entry, helping sign up survivors for assistance; Mucking and gutting damaged homes, debris removal, restoration of natural areas;

Marginal Duties 

Assist in team logistics planning, data collection, and be a participatory member of the team; Non-routine tool and gear maintenance; If eligible, may drive the SCA vehicle for team support;

Required Qualifications 

Service-minded, with a strong desire to help others. Positive attitude and a high level of maturity. Self-sufficient, adaptable, and flexible, including the ability to thrive in environments where there may be little leadership and the capacity to care for oneself in stressful environments. Ability to take on a variety of duties and projects related to conservation and disaster response. Team-oriented including being comfortable with living and serving in close proximity with others. Capacity to manage conflicts proactively and productively. Must be in good physical condition, including ability to lift up to 30 lbs. repeatedly and spend up to 12 hours a day working in a variety of weather conditions. Willingness to perform work that may require wearing personal protective equipment to mitigate potential exposure to molds, allergens, and other hazards. High School Diploma or GED. At least 18 years of age. U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident. Able to undergo and pass State and Federal background checks. Eligible to enroll in AmeriCorps.

Preferred Qualifications 

Chainsaw Experience.

Hours 

50-60 per week

Living Accommodations 

Housing is provided for this deployment Living accommodations vary by deployment. Housing may be in a gymnasium, local community center, hotels, or camp like settings. FEMA and the AmeriCorps Disaster Response Unit provide housing for all deployed A-DRT teams based on what is available.

Compensation  

• Living Allowance - $950/week.
• Meals Provided throughout deployment.
• Training in disaster response operations.
• Travel expenses covered by SCA.

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

Personal Vehicle Information

Not needed

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The SCA is an equal opportunity employer. Selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and performance, without unlawful discrimination.