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Avalanche Rescue Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mono County, CA

Paramedic I/II

Bridgeport, CA · On-site

$61K - $81K/yr

... rescue teams. Incumbents must operate effectively in hazardous conditions including inclement weather, road closures, and avalanche risk. Additional duties include accurate and timely completion of ...

County of Mono

Paramedic I/II

Bridgeport, CA · On-site

$61K - $81K/yr

... rescue teams. Incumbents must operate effectively in hazardous conditions including inclement weather, road closures, and avalanche risk. Additional duties include accurate and timely completion of ...

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Avalanche Rescue information

See California salary details

$7

$19

$38

How much do avalanche rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for avalanche rescue in California is $19.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.12 and $22.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does Avalanche Ski Patrol make?

Avalanche ski patrol members typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and certification levels. Salaries can increase with advanced training, certifications, and years of service, especially in high-demand ski resort areas.

How much do avalanche technicians make?

Avalanche technicians typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. The role often requires knowledge of snow conditions, rescue equipment, and safety protocols, with some positions offering overtime or seasonal pay.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Avalanche Rescue position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Avalanche Rescue, you need extensive knowledge of avalanche behavior, outdoor survival skills, first aid/CPR certification, and physical fitness, often supported by relevant training or certification (such as from recognized mountain safety organizations). Mastery of technical equipment such as avalanche transceivers, probes, shovels, GPS units, and rescue sleds—along with familiarity with incident management systems—is critical. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and a calm demeanor under pressure are important soft skills in this dynamic field. These abilities ensure rapid, coordinated response and increase the chances of successful rescue operations in hazardous mountain conditions.

What are the main challenges faced by professionals working in Avalanche Rescue?

Professionals in Avalanche Rescue often work in extreme weather conditions, on difficult terrain, and under time-sensitive pressures to locate and assist victims. The unpredictable nature of avalanches and rapidly changing mountain environments require continuous technical training, preparedness, and the ability to make quick, informed decisions. Teamwork is crucial, as rescues are typically coordinated with other rescuers, search and rescue teams, and sometimes with canine units. Overcoming both physical and mental stress is essential, and those who succeed in this field are dedicated to ongoing learning and safety protocols. This challenging but rewarding career is well-suited to individuals who thrive in high-stakes outdoor environments and value helping others in critical situations.

How to become an avalanche forecaster?

To become an avalanche forecaster, individuals typically need a background in geology, meteorology, or related fields, along with experience in snowpack analysis and avalanche prediction. Certification from organizations like the American Avalanche Association and familiarity with snow science tools and fieldwork are also important. Many forecasters gain experience through outdoor education, guiding, or working in snow safety roles before advancing to forecasting positions.

What is an Avalanche Rescue job?

An Avalanche Rescue job involves locating, assisting, and recovering individuals caught in avalanches. Rescuers use specialized equipment like transceivers, probes, and shovels to quickly find and extract victims. They often work in mountainous regions, collaborating with ski patrols, emergency responders, and search-and-rescue teams. This role requires extensive training in avalanche safety, first aid, and survival techniques. Rescuers must be physically fit and prepared to work in extreme conditions to save lives.

Can you make a career in search and rescue?

A career in search and rescue, including avalanche rescue, involves working in emergency response roles that require physical fitness, training, and often certifications such as first aid and rescue techniques. These jobs are typically found with government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private firms, and may involve irregular hours and challenging environments.
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Avalanche Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Avalanche Rescue job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,230 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Manager, Avalanche Forecasting, Winter 26-27

Manager, Avalanche Forecasting, Winter 26-27

Alterra

Mammoth Lakes, CA

$85K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Seasonal

At Mammoth Mountain, you will live the dream!

Work and play in the majestic mountains with a free season pass that opens the doors to adventure at all Alterra Resorts. Your whole family can share this excitement with free skiing for dependents and a range of valuable discounts. It is more than a job; it is an opportunity to embrace the beauty of Mammoth Lakes, California.

Benefits and perks of your adventure here:

  • Ski passes for dependents (spouse/child(ren)/domestic partners) includes free skiing at other Alterra Resorts
  • Free skiing at all Alterra Resorts
  • Ski/snowboarding lessons discounts
  • Equipment Rental discount
  • Friends and Family vouchers
  • Retail & Food discount
  • 401k with company match

*Offers of employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a background check

A little about this position:

  • Working under the direction of the Assistant Director Snow safety, collect and analyze weather and snowpack data to support avalanche forecast products at Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. Collaborate with Assistant Director Snow Safety and Ski Patrol Leadership to make avalanche risk management decisions for avalanche workers and ski area operations at Mammoth. Provide avalanche safety training to the Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrol under the dirextion of the Assistant Director, Snow Safety. Mentor and assist front line Patrol staff with daily duties when appropriate.
  • This role combines field leadership with administrative oversight and requires strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, expert skiing ability, strong downhill mountain biking ability, and the ability to lead effectively. The Patrol Manager works closely with the Assistant Director, Snow Safety and Director of Patrol to coordinate staffing, training, avalanche mitigation support, operational priorities, and emergency response readiness across the mountain.

Requirements:

  • EMT, EMR, WFR or equivalent to 80-hour minimum first aid certification
  • Current CPR training and certification
  • Meet or exceed expectations and experience of/or equivalent to Master Patroller at MMSP
  • Extensive avalanche mitigation experience utilizing explosives, artillery and/or remote avalanche control systems
  • Current licensed blaster in State of California or eligibility and willingness to obtain
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze snowpack and weather information to make safety sensitive decisions
  • Ability to make operational and forecasting decisions in the absence of the Assistant Director Snow Safety
  • Advanced computer skills with familiarity performing tasks using MS Office products, database management and mapping products
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Expert skiing skills with comfort skiing in avalanche terrain in all snow conditions
  • Minimum of 5 winter seasons working as an avalanche professional
  • Pro 2 or equivalent avalanche course certification recognized by the American Avalanche Association or Canadian Avalanche Association
  • Minimum 5 years avalanche forecasting experience for a ski area operation, mechanized skiing operation, highway or industrial operation
  • Expert level skills operating a snowmobile in inclement weather conditions
  • Experience as an avalanche educator or in a training role within an avalanche operation
  • Experience in avalanche search and rescue, including having participated in organized rescue practice annually
  • Demonstrated commitment to annual continuing professional development

Pay: $85,489.17 - $90,916.88 per year

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations.

Mammoth Mountain is an equal opportunity employer.

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