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The Disaster Recovery Task Force (DRTF) is a state resource comprised of multi-disciplined, multi-talented, and high qualified subject-matter experts with experience in all phases of emergency management. Deployable under the direction of the Texas Division of Emergency Management to assist and support local jurisdictions in the response to and recovery from any incident.
The Disaster Recovery Task Force (DRTF) Membership Program is a reservist roster comprised of local-level government employees who may be requested to deploy to assist other local jurisdictions in the response to and recovery from disasters.
How Do I Apply?
If you are interested in becoming a deployable asset to the State of Texas, follow the steps below to make sure that you are eligible and submit the application properly.
Step –1: “Eligibility” Select the link above, “Qualifications,” to make sure that you meet all the requirements to apply to the program.
Step –2: “Supervisor Acknowledgement” As a part of your application, you will be required to demonstrate that your supervisor is aware that you are applying to the DRTF Membership Program. This form can be found within the application or by following the link above, “Supervisor Form.” This signed form must be submitted with your application.
Step –3: “Application” You meet the qualifications and have discussed the application with your supervisor, now you are ready to apply to the program. Follow the link above, “Application,” fill out, and submit the application with a professional photo/headshot, a copy of your driver’s license, and the signed supervisor acknowledgement form.
Step –4: “Vetting” Now that you have successfully submitted your application, your information will be carefully reviewed by a series of panelist consisting of regional staff, chiefs, and the DRTF leadership. This process may take some time, but a DRTF staff member will reach out to you as soon as possible.
Step –5: “Agreements” Once your application has gone through the approval process, TDEM and your home agency/employer will execute a series of agreements between local jurisdiction and TDEM. Once these agreements have been finalized, you will be an official member of the Disaster Recovery Task Force and placed on a reservist roster where you may be requested to deploy to assist a jurisdiction in need.
All DRTF Membership types bring value and expertise to the response and recovery phases. These distinct membership types are used to help differentiate the levels of experience and training necessary to effectively fulfill the needs of requesting jurisdictions.
DRTF Team Lead: A DRTF Team Lead is an experienced emergency management professional who can lead a team of Primary Team Members or interdisciplinary personnel in a high stress environment. This individual must have a professional demeanor and personal integrity to represent the community that is requesting support and the Texas Division of Emergency Management.
Primary Team Member: A Primary Team Member is an emergency management professional who has a well-rounded knowledge of emergency management processes and has demonstrated the ability to positively affect an emergency response or recovery effort. A Primary Team Members may also qualify as a Technical Specialist.
Secondary Team Member: A Secondary Team Member is an emergency management professional with general knowledge of emergency management processes with minimal experience in a specific discipline. A Secondary Team Member could be deployed to further their level of experience and serve in roles under direct supervision of a Primary Team Member.
Technical Specialist Lead: A Technical Specialist is a professional or subject matter expert who can lead a team of Technical Specialists and effectively communicate with emergency management staff and leadership professionals at all levels. A Technical Specialist Lead must have a professional demeanor and personal integrity to represent the community requesting support and the Texas Division of Emergency Management.
Technical Specialist: A Technical Specialist is an individual who has a skill set that can enhance response and recovery efforts by applying his or her expertise in an event. This person may or may not have a background in emergency management.
Single Resource: A Single Resource Member is an individual who may not be atypical member of DRTF but has a specific skillset that can support the needs of a requesting jurisdiction. This member would serve in a support role to a Technical Specialist, Primary Team Member, or a Lead.
If you would like to join the DRTF Membership Program or have any comments, questions, or concerns, email TDEM-DRTF@TDEM.TEXAS.GOV