Ascension LLC is seeking experienced Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) with strong analytical and training evaluation backgrounds to support FEMA’s National Training and Education Division (NTED) Training Partners Program (TPP). This role is designed for professionals who can step in on an as-needed (surge) basis to support mission-critical activities such as curriculum review, instructor audits, grant application scoring, and NIMS validation.

The ideal candidate brings a blend of data analysis, emergency management training knowledge, and evaluation experience, with the ability to assess training effectiveness and ensure alignment with federal standards. This role is critical to maintaining the quality, compliance, and operational readiness of FEMA-sponsored training programs supporting national preparedness.

This is a strong fit for professionals who thrive in dynamic, project-based environments, can quickly integrate into ongoing review cycles, and contribute expert insight with minimal ramp-up time.

Summary of the Contractor Role

The SME (Business Data Analyst II / IV) will provide on-demand analytical and subject matter expertise to support FEMA NTED’s training review and evaluation lifecycle. This includes reviewing course materials, auditing instructor delivery, supporting grant application evaluations, and validating compliance with the National Incident Management System (NIMS).

The role requires individuals who are:

• Detail-oriented and analytical, capable of assessing both qualitative and quantitative training data
• Self-directed and adaptable, able to operate effectively in a surge support model
• Skilled at interpreting federal guidance and translating it into actionable evaluation criteria
• Comfortable working in structured review frameworks while managing multiple concurrent assignments

The SME will help FEMA ensure that training programs meet quality standards, compliance requirements, and operational effectiveness goals outlined in the SOW.

Tools and processes may include:

• Curriculum review frameworks and evaluation rubrics
• Instructor audit checklists and scoring systems
• Data analysis tools (Excel, Power BI, SharePoint)
• FEMA NTED guidance, NIMS standards, and training evaluation protocols

Key Responsibilities / Day-to-Day Activities

• Conduct detailed reviews of training curricula to assess alignment with FEMA and NTED standards
• Perform instructor audits, including observation, scoring, and documentation of delivery effectiveness
• Evaluate grant applications using structured scoring criteria and provide recommendations
• Support NIMS compliance validation for training programs and course materials
• Analyze training performance data and identify trends, gaps, and improvement opportunities
• Document findings, prepare evaluation reports, and present results to program stakeholders
• Participate in review boards and contribute subject matter expertise during evaluation cycles
• Collaborate with program staff, SMEs, and stakeholders to refine evaluation processes
• Apply quality assurance standards and ensure consistency across all review activities