Substantial Damage Estimator

Tidal Basin Group; Indiana (PA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Tidal Basin Group is seeking a Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) to perform on-site damage assessments of residential and commercial structures in disaster-impacted areas. You will determine extent of damage and evaluate whether structures meet substantial damage criteria under federal, state, and local guidelines, with field-based work and coordination with officials and property owners.

Candidates should have experience with damage assessments, construction knowledge, and familiarity with

Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required.
• Experience conducting damage assessments and building inspections.
• Experience with FEMA’s Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) tool, NFIP requirements, or post-disaster assessments preferred.

Responsibilities

• Utilize automated tools to conduct on-site inspections of disaster-damaged structures and document the extent and type of damage.
• Accurately collect, record, and report data, including photographs, measurements, and condition notes.
• Prepare detailed assessment reports in accordance with project requirements and applicable regulations.
• Collaborate with local building officials, engineers, and project managers to verify findings and address questions.
• Maintain organized records and ensure data integrity throughout the assessment process.
• Adhere to safety protocols and work in compliance with all applicable laws and standards.
• Complete all required training as directed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

MS Office

Data collection

Construction drawings

FEMA SDE familiarity

Building knowledge

Communication

Driver's license

Long hours

Education

Associate's or Bachelor's degree

Tools

FEMA SDE tool

Job description

THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION
This is an onsite position in Indiana
Position Summary
Position Description:
We are a comprehensive emergency and disaster management consulting firm with a potential opportunity for a Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE). The SDE will work in disaster-impacted areas conducting on-site damage assessments of residential and commercial structures to determine the extent of damage and evaluate whether structure meets the criteria for substantial damage under applicable federal, state, and local guidelines. This role requires field-based work in challenging environments and close coordination with project leadership, local officials, and property owners to ensure accurate and timely assessments. Job Duties and Responsibilities include:

• Utilize automated tools to conduct on-site inspections of disaster-damaged structures and document the extent and type of damage.
• Accurately collect, record, and report data, including photographs, measurements, and condition notes.
• Prepare detailed assessment reports in accordance with project requirements and applicable regulations.
• Collaborate with local building officials, engineers, and project managers to verify findings and address questions.
• Maintain organized records and ensure data integrity throughout the assessment process.
• Adhere to safety protocols and work in compliance with all applicable laws and standards.
• Complete all required training as directed.
• Perform other duties as assigned
  

Skills and Competencies

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data collection applications.
• Strong attention to detail, organized with the ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, site plans, and damage assessment documentation.
• Familiarity with FEMA’s SDE tool and related guidance preferred.
• Knowledge of building construction, materials, and structural systems preferred.
• Excellent communication skills and professionalism when interacting with property owners and stakeholders.
• Possess a valid state issued driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.
• Ability to work 10-12-hour days and stand/walk for extended periods of time.
  

Education and Experience

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, preferred but not required.
• Experience conducting damage assessments, building inspections, construction estimating, disaster damage assessments.
• Experience with FEMA’s Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) tool, NFIP requirements, or post-disaster assessments is preferred.
  

Physical and Environmental Requirements

• Ability to work in disaster-impacted areas and austere environments.
• General Physical Activities - include sitting, standing, walking, kneeling, crouching, and use of hands and fingers.
• Lifting and Carrying - ability to lift and carry equipment during field inspections, move up to 25 pounds.
• Tolerance for outdoor work in varying weather conditions, including extreme temperatures and uneven terrain.
• Duration and Repetition - prolonged periods of standing, walking, or computer use, and repetitive motions.

Job Description Disclaimer This position description incorporates the job's core responsibilities. It recognizes that other related duties not specifically mentioned might also be performed and that not all responsibilities may be carried out depending on operational needs. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. Upon hire, secondary employment and other employment restrictions must be disclosed and approved.
Tidal Basin Holdco, LLC, and its subsidiaries and affiliated companies, which includes Tidal Basin Government Consulting, LLC are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.