An Emergency Planning Officer is responsible for preparing plans and procedures to ensure organisations and communities can respond effectively to major incidents such as natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or public health emergencies. The role involves assessing risks, developing emergency response strategies, conducting training exercises, and working with agencies like the police, fire, NHS, and local councils. Emergency Planning Officers also help coordinate the response during real emergencies, ensuring that resources are deployed quickly and efficiently. This career is well-suited to people who are organised, calm under pressure, and excellent communicators.
Emergency Planning Officers in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £40,000 per year, with senior roles reaching up to £50,000.
There are approximately 1,000 to 2,000 Emergency Planning Officer positions across the UK, most commonly within local authorities and government agencies.
Most Emergency Planning Officers work 37 to 40 hours per week, but may be required to work evenings, weekends, or be on-call during emergencies.
Works specifically on preparing communities and organisations for flooding events, including risk assessment, planning, and community engagement.
Focuses on helping businesses and public sector organisations develop plans to continue essential operations during and after emergencies or disruptions.
Specialises in supporting communities and agencies with recovery efforts following major incidents, ensuring resources and support are effectively managed.
Focus on subjects such as Geography, Science, or Public Services at GCSE and A Level.
Most Emergency Planning Officers have a strong academic background. While there are no strict subject requirements, Geography and Science are helpful as they provide relevant knowledge about risks and hazards. Public Services or related subjects can also introduce you to how emergency services work. Good grades will help you progress to higher education or relevant training.
Consider a university degree in Disaster Management, Emergency Planning, Public Safety, or a related field.
Many employers expect Emergency Planning Officers to have a degree or equivalent experience. Courses in Disaster Management, Emergency Planning, or even Environmental Science provide essential knowledge about risk assessment and crisis management. Some universities offer work placements or modules on emergency planning, which can be very beneficial.
Volunteer with local councils, emergency services, or charities involved in crisis response.
Practical experience is highly valued. Volunteering with organisations like the British Red Cross, local councils, or emergency services gives you a real insight into emergency planning. You could help with training exercises, community resilience projects, or public safety campaigns. This experience will help build your CV and develop vital skills such as teamwork and communication.
Look for junior roles or internships in local government, the NHS, or emergency management teams.
Entry-level positions such as Emergency Planning Assistant or Administrative Support in a local authority can be a good starting point. These roles provide exposure to emergency planning processes and allow you to work alongside experienced officers. Internships or temporary contracts can also help you build relevant experience and contacts in the field.
Complete courses in emergency planning, risk assessment, and crisis management.
Professional development is essential in this field. Courses accredited by the Emergency Planning Society or Chartered Institute of Civil Protection and Emergency Management can help you build specialist knowledge. You might also train in areas such as business continuity, major incident response, or data analysis.
Apply for permanent positions and continue to develop your skills and knowledge.
Once you have the right qualifications and experience, you can apply for Emergency Planning Officer roles. These jobs are usually based within local councils, the NHS, government agencies, or large organisations. Continuing professional development is important, as emergency planning is a constantly evolving field. Networking with other professionals and attending industry events can also help you progress to senior roles.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Emergency Planning Officer. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
An Emergency Planning Officer and an Army officer both require expertise in strategic planning, risk management, and coordination during emergencies or crises. Both roles involve preparing plans, managing resources, and working under pressure to ensure safety and effective response in critical situations.
You could get into this job through:
You can do a degree course before you apply for officer training although it's not essential.
Most subjects are acceptable.
You can also apply for an army officer internship before, during or after university. This gives you the chance to learn about the officer role and whether it's something you want to do.
You'll usually need:
You could work towards becoming an officer by doing a college course, for example in public services or A levels. You would then apply to the army for officer training.
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could start your army career by doing an HM Forces Serviceperson Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship.
You would apply directly to the army to find the best apprenticeship route for you.
To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:
You can join the Army Reserve as a part-time officer to get some experience of what life is like in the regular army. You'll also learn new skills at the same time.
You'll need to:
If you're between 12 and 18 years old, you can join the Army Cadet Force.
You can apply directly for officer training.
You'll need to:
You'll also usually need a minimum of:
You'll be invited to talk to someone at your local army careers centre about the opportunities available. You'll then attend a 2-part assessment, which includes medical and fitness tests.
If you're accepted, you'll move onto formal officer training at the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst in Surrey.
You'll find more information about becoming an army officer from Army Careers.
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