Launch Your Career in Disaster Logistics with FEMA
Are you looking for a career that combines technical skill with a meaningful mission? The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is currently hiring a Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) in Aiea, Hawaii. This role is essential to our ability to respond effectively when disasters strike, ensuring that the right supplies reach the right people at the right time.
About the Agency: FEMA
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and FEMA are dedicated to helping people before, during, and after disasters. Our mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation, we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. Joining the FEMA team means becoming part of a diverse, mission-driven workforce that makes an impact every single day.
Job Responsibilities: The Core of Our Logistics
As a Materials Handler, you will serve as a key member of the Logistics Management Directorate. Your daily tasks will be dynamic and mission-critical. You will be expected to:
- Receive and Store: Manage incoming shipments, verifying both quality and quantity.
- Operate Heavy Equipment: Use forklifts to move heavy materials safely within a warehouse setting.
- Transport Supplies: Drive trucks up to 26,000 lbs regularly, and occasionally handle tractor-trailers (up to 32,000 lbs).
- Digital Documentation: Use computer terminals and scanner guns to record data accurately in our automated inventory systems.
- Emergency Readiness: Participate in national emergency management responsibilities, which may involve deploying to disaster sites with little advance notice.
Requirements for Success
To be considered for this position, you must demonstrate the technical capability to perform warehouse and motor vehicle operations without more than normal supervision.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Must possess or be able to obtain/maintain a valid CDL |
| Physical Ability | Ability to lift up to 100 lbs and work on hard surfaces |
| Clearance | Must pass a Public Trust - Moderate Risk background check |
| Readiness | Must be available for rapid deployment to disaster areas |
Salary and Benefits
We offer a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and federal wage schedules.
- Pay Rate: $29.01 - $33.84 per hour.
- Insurance: Choose from comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans.
- Retirement: Participate in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid Leave: Accrue personal leave and enjoy all paid federal holidays.
- Development: Benefit from extensive job-specific training provided by the agency.
Application Tips
- Watch the Clock: This announcement may close early if the application limit is reached.
- Keep it Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Excess pages will lead to automatic disqualification.
- Detail Your Work: Use the required format for dates (MM/YY) and include hours worked per week for all previous roles.
- Utilize Tools: The USAJOBS Resume Builder is the most effective way to ensure you meet all technical documentation standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a CORE appointment? A: CORE stands for 'Cadre of On-Call Response/Recovery Employee.' It is an appointment designed to help FEMA meet surge staffing requirements for disasters.
Q: Is this a permanent position? A: No, it is a non-permanent position with a term of up to two years, though it offers a clear path toward gaining competitive eligibility for future permanent federal roles.
Q: Will I have to travel? A: Yes. The nature of this job requires flexibility. You may be required to work in locations other than your primary duty station to assist in emergency response efforts.
If you have the drive, the physical stamina, and the commitment to help your fellow citizens, a career with FEMA as a Materials Handler is an excellent opportunity to serve your country. Prepare your documents, ensure your resume is concise, and apply today to join our elite logistics team.
Why This Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job Matters
Join the FEMA frontline in Hawaii! We are seeking skilled Materials Handlers to manage the critical logistics that keep disaster relief moving. Take control of your career while serving your country.
Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job Overview
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is currently hiring for a Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) in Aiea, Hawaii. This position is a CORE (Cadre of On-Call Response/Recovery Employee) role, serving as a vital part of the Logistics Management Directorate. In this role, you will perform essential warehouse functions—receiving, storing, and shipping equipment—while operating heavy machinery and transport vehicles to support our mission of national disaster preparedness and recovery.
Requirements for Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator)
- Must be a United States citizen.
- Must be able to pass a background investigation for Public Trust (Moderate Risk).
- Must obtain and maintain a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
- Ability to perform the full range of material handler duties without constant supervision.
- Must be able to lift items weighing up to 100 pounds.
- Ability to travel on short notice to emergency sites, which may involve austere conditions.
- Registration with the Selective Service (if applicable).
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a government-issued credit card.
Preferred Qualifications for Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator)
- Previous experience operating sit-down or stand-up forklifts.
- Proficiency in utilizing automated inventory systems and barcode scanning technology.
- Experience in high-volume warehouse environments, including inventory management and documentation.
- Prior experience operating trucks up to 26,000 lbs (with limited tractor-trailer experience).
- Proven history of maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay structure.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government contributions similar to a 401(k).
- ✓Generous paid federal holidays and personal leave accrual.
- ✓Access to life insurance and long-term care plans.
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities, including mandatory agency training.
- ✓Tuition reimbursement programs and uniform allowances.
💡 How to Apply Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare a concise federal resume (maximum two pages).
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire linked within the announcement.
- Upload required documentation, including proof of previous employment dates and hours worked.
- Submit your application before the closing date or earlier if the application limit is met.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS Application Dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Limit your resume to two pages strictly; submissions over this limit will be disqualified.
- Be precise with employment dates (MM/YY format) and ensure part-time hours are clearly stated.
- Focus your resume on the quality of your experience rather than just the duration.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are captured correctly.
- Check your application status regularly and watch for emails regarding interview scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to be a CORE employee?
CORE stands for 'Cadre of On-Call Response/Recovery Employee.' These are full-time, non-permanent appointments hired under the Stafford Act to support specific disaster response and recovery missions.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes. This position requires the ability to deploy to disaster sites nationwide on short notice, potentially for weeks or months at a time, often in challenging conditions.
Are there educational requirements?
No, there is no formal educational substitution for this position. Applicants must demonstrate the required skills and knowledge through their work experience.