Community Disaster Program Specialist

The American Red Cross is the world’s largest humanitarian network, dedicated to helping people affected by disasters and emergencies every year. With a mission grounded in compassion and service, the organization operates in communities across the United States, providing critical aid and resources to those in need. Joining the American Red Cross means becoming a part of a global movement that touches millions of lives, supporting communities through disaster preparedness, response, and recovery initiatives. Known for its inclusive culture, the Red Cross values diversity, fosters unity, and focuses on the strength of the human spirit, making it a unique and rewarding place to work.

The American Red Cross is currently seeking a Community Disaster Program Specialist to support the Bakersfield region. This role involves guiding and leading teams of trained volunteers to deliver comfort and care during disaster relief operations. The specialist will play a key role in volunteer engagement by creating and maintaining continuous and robust involvement through established systems and collaboration with volunteer services staff. This position requires a strong commitment to ensuring that communities are prepared and resilient in the face of disasters, with particular attention to frontline communities. The role offers a meaningful career path where success is measured not by profits but by the positive impact made on individuals and communities.

As a Community Disaster Program Specialist, you will work closely with a diverse volunteer workforce to implement disaster cycle services programming in a rapid, accessible, and equitable manner, ensuring cultural and linguistic inclusivity. You will support specific program activities or functions within your geographic area, helping to build mission capacity and engaging local communities and partners to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies. This position requires flexibility, including the potential to work outside regular business hours and during holidays. Regional disaster employees also deploy at least once a year outside their home region, enhancing their skills and contributing to broader disaster response efforts.

The role offers a competitive salary range starting at $70,304 (for California) and includes a comprehensive benefits package. Being part of the American Red Cross means joining a team committed to professional growth, community service, and personal support with allowances for personal circumstances during deployments. It is a chance to align your career with a mission-driven organization that values your well-being as much as your contributions to its humanitarian goals.