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Avalanche Rescue Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

... 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 ...

Avalanche Rescue information

See California salary details

$7

$19

$38

How much do avalanche rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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.
What are popular job titles related to Avalanche Rescue jobs in California? For Avalanche Rescue jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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.

Emergency Medical Technician - Reserve

County of Mono

Bridgeport, CA • On-site

$16.90/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Summary DEFINITION: To render skilled and technical life saving techniques to those in need of assistance; assist paramedics in performance of advance life support; to operate and maintain assigned rescue vehicle and decentralized ambulance station. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: Incumbents in the Emergency Medical Technician classification are in possession of an EMT 1A license from the State of California and ICEMA. About the County DUTIES include but are not limited to the following: Working at assigned station with one partner on a twenty-four-hour shift.

Provide Basic Life Support and/or assist with Advanced Life Support treatment to victims, in accordance with California State and ICEMA Region EMT 1A Scope of Practice. Performs necessary medical treatment and assists in patient extrication from vehicles involved in traffic collisions or accidents, sometimes with assistance from other agencies, such as Mono County Sheriff's Office, Mono County Search and Rescue, local Fire Departments, United States Forest Service and others. Responds into the back county by foot, vehicle, helicopter or by whatever means necessary to render treatment.

Operates rescue unit in presence of inclement weather, road closures, and possible avalanche danger. Complete paperwork in a timely and accurate manner. Perform over-the-side rescues of victims as trained.

Responds to the fire ground to treat victims of fire, explosions, or building collapse. Assists with fire ground duties as assigned and trained. Benefits Highlights DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge of: Previous 911 ambulance experience (preferred).

EMT 1A Scope of Practice as defined and required by the State of California. BLS protocols as required by the local certifying agency (ICEMA). Cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Emergency medical techniques; rescue techniques. Defensive driving. Vehicle and equipment maintenance.

Recordkeeping procedures and methods of documentation. Ability and willingness to: Perform functions of the local EMS Agency EMT 1A Scope of Practice. Become certified as a CPR and First Aid Instructor.

Learn the geography of the local area. Think and act quickly in emergencies, judge situations and people accurately. Prepare concise written reports and complete all required clerical duties.

Understand and carry out oral and written directions. Maintain vehicles and medical and non-medical equipment. Work harmoniously with partners and those contacted in the course of work.

Be on call for 24 hours, 48 hours or as scheduled. Work stand-by shifts (may be less than 24 hours). TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Certificate from college or technical school and/or training as an EMT 1A.

Special Requirements: (1) Possession of valid EMT license from State of California. (2) Possession of a valid Driver's license. (4) Possession of valid Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider card from American Heart Association or Red Cross.

(5) Ability to pass extensive criminal background check. Additional Information Online written exam CPAT or Physical Fitness Evaluation