Join the FEMA Logistics Team: Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) in Atlanta

Are you looking for a career that combines technical skill with a mission to help others? The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is currently accepting applications for a Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) to join our team in Atlanta, Georgia. As a member of the Logistics Management Directorate, you will be the backbone of our disaster response efforts, ensuring that life-saving equipment and supplies are perfectly organized and ready to ship when the nation needs them most.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will perform a full spectrum of warehouse duties. Your daily tasks will include:

Receiving, unloading, storing, and shipping essential disaster response equipment.
Driving trucks up to 26,000 lbs regularly and tractor-trailers up to 32,000 lbs on a limited basis.
Operating forklifts to move material safely within the facility.
Using automated computer systems and scan guns to maintain real-time inventory accuracy.
Ensuring warehouse safety and maximum space utilization.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must meet several key criteria:

U.S. Citizenship.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
Successful completion of a Public Trust - Moderate Risk background investigation.
Ability to deploy to disaster sites nationwide on short notice.
Participation in mandatory in-person training in Emmitsburg, MD.

Comparison of Warehouse Duties

Task	Impact on Mission	Equipment Used
Inventory Tracking	Prevents supply shortages	Computer Terminal / Scan Gun
Material Loading	Enables rapid deployment	Forklift / Pallet Jack
Vehicle Operation	Moves resources to disaster sites	26k-32k lb Trucks

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging from $26.94 to $31.42. As a federal position, compensation includes locality pay adjustments and potential step increases, providing a stable and reliable income path for qualified candidates.

Benefits

FEMA employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package:

Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) to help build your financial future.
Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual.
Employee development and training programs.
Access to wellness programs and fitness centers.

Application Tips

Be Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure you capture the necessary details without exceeding the limit.
Be Accurate: Ensure all dates of employment are in MM/YY format to avoid disqualification.
Showcase Skills: Highlight your specific forklift and computer inventory experience clearly in your resume summary.

Serving as a Materials Handler for FEMA is a path to a meaningful, high-impact career. If you are ready to put your logistics skills to work for the benefit of the nation, we encourage you to apply by November 3, 2026. Join us in making America more prepared, resilient, and ready for whatever comes next.

Why This Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job Matters

Drive the mission forward with FEMA: Join our Logistics team as a Materials Handler and play a critical role in national disaster response and recovery efforts.

Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job Overview

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is seeking a dedicated Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) in Atlanta, Georgia. This position supports the Logistics Management Directorate, where you will manage the essential flow of equipment and supplies. As a CORE (Cadre of On-Call Response/Recovery Employee), you will be a vital link in our disaster readiness chain, ensuring that resources reach those in need when it matters most.

Requirements for Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator)

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must possess or be able to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
Must undergo and successfully pass a Public Trust - Moderate Risk background investigation.
Ability to perform warehouse material handling without more than normal supervision.
Must register with the Selective Service if applicable.
Must be able to deploy on short notice to locations nationwide for extended periods.
Must be able to attend a mandatory three-week, in-person training in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

Preferred Qualifications for Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator)

Experience operating sit-down or stand-up forklifts.
Proficiency in using computer terminals and scan guns for inventory management.
Proven experience in warehouse environments, including shipping, receiving, and material organization.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Life and long-term care insurance
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
✓Employee Assistance Program
✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
✓Uniform allowance and fitness program access

💡 How to Apply Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Materials Handler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job

Review the full job announcement on USAJOBS carefully.
Prepare a federal-style resume limited to two pages.
Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
Upload all required documentation, including proof of any federal employment if applicable.
Submit your application before the November 3, 2026, deadline.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all necessary date and hour information is included.
Be specific about your deployment history if you are a former FEMA Reservist or DAE.
Preview the online questionnaire early to understand the technical requirements.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and in English.
Keep your resume strictly under the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a CORE employee?

CORE stands for Cadre of On-Call Response/Recovery Employee. These are full-time, non-permanent employees hired under the Stafford Act to support FEMA's disaster response missions.

Is travel required for this position?

Yes. This position requires the ability to deploy to disaster sites across the U.S. and its territories with little notice for weeks or even months at a time.

What if my resume is longer than two pages?

The system will not accept resumes exceeding two pages, and applications exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration.

Job from Federal Emergency Management Agency

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and FEMA are dedicated to protecting the nation before, during, and after disasters. Our mission is built on people—problem-solvers, leaders, and those ready to make a difference. Working at FEMA means more than just a job; it means joining a community that values resilience, community partnership, and service.