Samuel Rodriguez
Watauga,U.S.
Summary
Detail-oriented Emergency Management Specialist and Operations Specialist with extensive experience in operational and administrative program evaluation, disaster recovery services, and financial operations. Proven ability to streamline processes, optimize program delivery, and lead high-performing teams in both emergency management and financial sectors. Skilled in budget management, personnel action preparation, technical writing, and problem resolution. Expertise in managing complex financial transactions, resolving escalations, and launching operational platforms. Bilingual in English and intermediate Spanish, with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and administrative tools.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Emergency Management Specialist (SME Staff)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Denton, TX, USA
08.2024 - Current
- Provided comprehensive administrative and operational support to senior specialists, analyzing disaster recovery programs and identifying areas for improvement.
- Supported navigation of applicant files through Web NEMIS and all FEMA databases.
- Conducted technical writing and reporting, leveraging expertise in the Individuals and Households Program and emergency management protocols.
- Recommended solutions to administrative challenges, streamlining processes and enhancing program delivery.
- Led and coached 172 local hires and reservists as part of the Subject Matter Expert (SME) Program-Surge staff, delivering training and guidance to improve team performance.
Human Services Specialist (Local Hire to SME Staff)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Denton, TX, USA
09.2023 - 08.2024
- Supported administrative programs by optimizing applicant case processing, reducing processing time, and improving operational efficiency.
- Answered calls for Registration Intake, Helpline Tier 1 & 2, providing other agency referrals upon request and clarifying Small Business Administration referrals for the Other Needs Assistance Program. This meticulous approach ensured resources were allocated efficiently and effectively, addressing the needs of those most affected by disasters.
- Provided guidance to individuals and communities affected by disasters, ensuring access to assistance programs through contact center operations.
- Coordinated interviews and candidate engagement as part of the Local Hire Hotline Project, contributing to effective program staffing.
Emergency Management Specialist II (PA Grants Validation)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Denton, TX, USA
04.2022 - 11.2022
- Managed budgets ranging from $5,000 to $8.5 million for Lane Category B projects, ensuring efficient resource allocation and program delivery while demonstrating responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
- Conducted damage assessments and developed cost estimates to support disaster recovery services.
- Updated financial data and prepared budget reports for accurate tracking of project expenses.
- Identified administrative challenges and recommended solutions to enhance program performance and resource utilization.
Emergency Management Specialist III (HIS)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Denton, TX, USA
09.2021 - 10.2021
- Conducted virtual inspections of homes and properties damaged by natural disasters to assess eligibility for disaster assistance.
- Evaluated structural damage and documented findings to support disaster relief funding decisions.
- Managed complex recovery programs and projects, ensuring accurate damage assessments and resource allocation.
- Served as the primary point of contact for disaster survivors, providing empathetic support and guidance during declared disasters.
Human Services Specialist (Local Hire)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Denton, TX, USA
06.2021 - 09.2021
- Conducted thorough verification processes to assess disaster assistance eligibility, ensuring fairness and accuracy.
- Streamlined applicant case processing, reducing processing times and improving operational efficiency.
- Provided clear guidance and empathetic support to disaster survivors, fostering trust and reliability in FEMA programs.
Optician
Sam’s Optical
Grapevine, TX, USA
11.2018 - 10.2020
- Conducted prescreening tests and tailored frames and lenses to maximize customer satisfaction.
- Demonstrated marketing and sales acumen, contributing to revenue growth and maintaining a strong customer base.
Co-Managing Partner
Keeks
North Richland Hills, TX, USA
11.2017 - 11.2018
- Cultivated a culture of accountability and motivation among staff, leading by example and creating a cohesive, high-performing team. Through effective leadership, fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility among team members, resulting in improved productivity, job satisfaction, and ultimately, a positive impact on customer service.
- Maintained impeccable standards of quality control, cleanliness, and safety, ensuring compliance with regulations and elevating the dining experience for customers. By upholding these high standards, ensured a safe and welcoming environment for patrons while bolstering the restaurant’s reputation for excellence, contributing to customer loyalty and repeat business.
Senior Operations Analyst (Co-Manager)
Apex Clearing Fintech
Dallas, TX, USA
03.2017 - 11.2017
- Processed complex financial transactions and resolved escalations to support seamless operational programs.
- Updated budget data and prepared reports to track departmental performance and resource allocation.
- Collaborated with multiple departments to successfully launch a platform for onboarding firms as clearing partners, ensuring seamless integration and operational readiness.
- Managed a team of 20-30 representatives, conducting coaching sessions and team meetings to address operational updates and concerns.
- Streamlined administrative processes, significantly enhancing departmental efficiency.
- Oversaw a team of agents utilizing the Automated Customer Account Transfers (ACAT) to facilitate seamless asset transitions between financial institutions, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely resolution of transfer-related issues.
Senior Brokerage Specialist
Fidelity Investments
Westlake, TX, USA
11.2004 - 09.2014
- Reviewed and validated transfer documentation, identified discrepancies, and collaborated with counterparties to resolve errors and complete asset transfers efficiently.
- Updated spreadsheets and prepared reports to support financial operations and ensure compliance with organizational guidelines.
- Recommended solutions to administrative challenges, optimizing team capabilities and improving service delivery.
- Managed inquiries from international business partners, fostering trust and enhancing operational efficiency.
Education
Project Management -
University of Arizona Global
01.2023
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-Basic) -
Tarrant County College
01.2000
Skills
- Operational & Administrative Program Evaluation
- Budget Data Management & Requests
- Personnel Action Preparation
- Disaster Recovery Services Coordination
- Stakeholder Engagement & Team Leadership
- Process Optimization & Efficiency
- Technical Writing & Case Management
- Financial Operations & Escalation Resolution
- Microsoft Office Suite & Administrative Tools
- Bilingual: English & Intermediate Spanish
- Subject Matter Expert (SME) Leadership
Accomplishments
- Assisted senior specialists in evaluating and analyzing operational programs, improving efficiency and compliance.
- Facilitated staffing needs by preparing personnel action requests and ensuring compliance with administrative procedures.
- Identified administrative challenges and implemented solutions to streamline processes and enhance program delivery.
Personal Information
Citizenship: U.S.
Certification
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B)
FINRA Series 99
Timeline
Emergency Management Specialist (SME Staff)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
08.2024 - Current
Human Services Specialist (Local Hire to SME Staff)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
09.2023 - 08.2024
Emergency Management Specialist II (PA Grants Validation)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
04.2022 - 11.2022
Emergency Management Specialist III (HIS)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
09.2021 - 10.2021
Human Services Specialist (Local Hire)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
06.2021 - 09.2021
Optician
Sam’s Optical
11.2018 - 10.2020
Co-Managing Partner
Keeks
11.2017 - 11.2018
Senior Operations Analyst (Co-Manager)
Apex Clearing Fintech
03.2017 - 11.2017
Senior Brokerage Specialist
Fidelity Investments
11.2004 - 09.2014
Project Management -
University of Arizona Global
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-Basic) -
Tarrant County College