Job Summary

The Emergency Management Agency Planning Intern will assist the Rockdale County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) in completing a full update of the Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA) and Stakeholder Preparedness Review (SPR), which are two critical components of FEMA's National Preparedness System. These assessments identify the county's greatest risks, evaluate the community's response capabilities, and help establish measurable goals for preparedness and resilience. Working under the supervision of the EMA Planning Specialist, the intern will support data collection, stakeholder engagement, risk analysis, and report development. They will collaborate with county departments, first responders, local industries, and community partners to ensure that all aspects of Rockdale County's preparedness are captured accurately. The project will culminate in a complete THIRA/SPR submission to the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS), positioning the county to enhance disaster readiness and maintain grant compliance. This internship provides an immersive, project-based learning experience for a student pursuing a degree in Emergency Management, Public Administration, Homeland Security, Geography, or a related discipline. The intern will gain firsthand experience in government operations, policy analysis, data-driven planning, and interagency collaboration, all essential skills for future public service careers.

Essential Functions

Essential Functions: These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

Conducting hazard research and updating risk profiles

Collecting input from several key groups for surveys or interviews.

Assisting in analyzing county capabilities and resource gaps.

Drafting portions of the final report and presentation materials.

Improved Preparedness Documentation: The EMA Intern’s primary deliverable is a FEMA compliant THIRA/SPR that will guide local planning, mitigation, and training initiatives.

Enhanced interagency Collaboration: Through surveys, data collection, and meetings, the EMA Intern will help build relationships between county departments, first responders, private sector, and volunteer organizations.

Improve Operational Efficiency: The additional capacity provided by the EMA Intern allows EMA staff to maintain focus on ongoing emergency response coordination, training, and exercise activities.

Public Service Workforce Development: The internship provides a pipeline for emerging professionals interested in emergency management and public service careers.

Long-Term Sustainability: The tools, templates, and outreach processes developed during the internship will remain available for use in subsequent THIRA/SPR cycles, ensuring efficiency and

continuity.

Additional Duties:

Employees in this classification may be expected to perform any related duties as required by the proper authority.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong research, analytical, and writing skills.

Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with staff, partners, and the public.

Strong time management skills and ability to meet deadlines.

Eagerness to learn and contribute to public service.

Working Conditions

Typically performed in an office with occasional field visits.

Minimum Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications