In a typical work setting, emergency management directors:

Interpersonal Relationships

• Have a very high level of interaction with others.
• Are substantially responsible for the health and safety of others.
• Are responsible for the work done by others workers.
• Are occasionally placed in conflict situations in which others may be rude or angry.
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• Talk with others on a daily basis by phone, e-mail, and in person. They also write letters and memos.
• Almost always work as part of a team.

Physical Work Conditions

• Almost always work indoors. Occasionally work outdoors.
• May work physically near others.
• May travel to different work sites via a truck, car, or van.
• May be exposed to different lighting conditions and hot and cold temperatures, usually depending on weather.

Work Performance

• Make decisions that greatly impact coworkers or their company's reputation. They often act independently, only rarely consulting a supervisor.
• Must be very exact and accurate when performing work. Errors could cause serious harm to the public.
• Rarely consult a supervisor before setting daily goals and tasks.
• Must meet strict weekly deadlines.

Hours/Travel

• Often work more than 40 hours per week.
• Are on call to respond to emergencies.
• Work evenings and weekends to meet with community groups to create emergency response plans.