Orland Park Launches Revamped Emergency Management Agency

ORLAND PARK, IL — Orland Park officials on Monday voted to replace the Emergency Services and Disaster Agency (ESDA) with the Orland Park Emergency Management Agency (EMA), a move officials say "strengthens the Village’s commitment to emergency preparedness, disaster response and public safety," according to a release.

"llinois communities across the state are modernizing their emergency management structures to meet today’s threats, from natural disasters to public health emergencies to infrastructure failures," said Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge.

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"Establishing the EMA aligns Orland Park with state and federal all-hazards standards and positions us to respond faster and more effectively when our residents need us most."

The agency was previously largely volunteer-based, with only some paid positions. Officials then determined it needed a revamp and formalization.

The Village is actively recruiting qualified individuals to fill several key volunteer and part-time roles within the EMA. Open positions include:

• EMA Responder (Volunteer): A volunteer role with opportunities for paid special event staffing. Responders are not required to work a set number of hours and play a key role in supporting emergency preparedness efforts.

• EMA Technician (Part-Time): An entry-level position, EMA Technicians pay $21 per hour. Candidates should be eager to learn and participate in a range of emergency management tasks.

• EMA Officer (Part-Time): Technicians who complete mandatory training requirements and receive a recommendation are eligible for promotion to EMA Officer. The hourly pay for this position is $25 per hour.

EMA personnel support police and fire departments, assist with disaster response and preparedness, and provide staffing for major Village events throughout the year. All members receive comprehensive paid training in areas such as CPR/AED, incident command, emergency operations and search and rescue.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid driver’s license and meet training and background check requirements. Part-time members commit to a minimum of 120 hours annually.

For more information and to apply, visit orlandpark.org/ema or email ema@orlandpark.org.