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Civilian Rescue Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Air Combat Command

$76K - $98K/yr

The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a 68 Rescue Squadron Formal Training Unit (FTU ... Civilian Drug Demand Reduction Program. Employee must pass initial and periodic short notice drug ...

U.S. Marine Corps

FIREFIGHTER (PARAMEDIC)

Barstow, CA · On-site +1

$65K - $93K/yr

... rescue responses. * You will respond to on-site accidents and other emergencies involving injury ... to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326. * Males born ...

Department of the Air Force

$38K - $51K/yr

Performs crash-rescue and firefighting duties involving air traffic or support operations where ... Individuals who are past the maximum entry age limit (37 years) and have prior Federal civilian ...

New

Headquarters, Air Force Reserve Command

$131K - $171K/yr

Appointee's civilian assignments will consist of the following duties. Learn more about this agency ... This is an Air Reserve Technician (ART) Officer position located at 943 RESCUE GP with the military ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsCivilian Rescue JobsCivilian Rescue Jobs in California

Civilian Rescue information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$43.6K

$52.3K

How much do civilian rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for civilian rescue in California is $43,584.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $47,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a civilian rescue?

A Civilian Rescue job involves responding to emergencies to save individuals from dangerous situations, such as natural disasters, accidents, or other crises. Rescuers may work for government agencies, non-profits, or private organizations, using specialized training and equipment to provide life-saving assistance. Duties often include conducting search and rescue operations, administering first aid, and ensuring public safety. Strong physical fitness, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in civilian rescue, and why are they important?

To excel in Civilian Rescue, individuals typically need emergency response training, physical fitness, and knowledge of first aid or CPR, often backed by certifications such as EMT or lifeguard credentials. Familiarity with rescue equipment, communication radios, and emergency management systems is also commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, composure under pressure, and the ability to work well in teams are vital soft skills. These competencies are crucial for ensuring rapid and effective assistance in urgent, often life-threatening situations, ensuring public safety and positive outcomes.

What are the biggest challenges faced by civilian rescue professionals in the field?

Civilian Rescue professionals often encounter unpredictable and high-stress environments, which can involve hazardous conditions, rapidly changing situations, and the need to make quick decisions. Working long or irregular hours, such as nights or weekends, is common, especially during emergencies or disasters. Team coordination and clear communication are critical, as rescues frequently involve collaborating with other emergency services. Adapting to emotionally challenging scenarios and maintaining focus under pressure are essential skills for success and personal well-being in this field.

How to get into civilian search and rescue?

To become a civilian search and rescue worker, individuals typically need to complete specialized training such as FEMA or local rescue courses, obtain certifications like CPR and first aid, and develop skills in navigation, communication, and emergency response. Volunteering with local rescue organizations or emergency services can also provide valuable experience and networking opportunities.

What are popular job titles related to Civilian Rescue jobs in California?

For Civilian Rescue jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Civilian Rescue jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Civilian Rescue jobs in California are:

Civilian Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civilian Rescue job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 42% In-person, and 58% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,584 per year, or $21 per hour.

FIREFIGHTER

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Barstow, CA • On-site

$42K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform rescue operations in fires and fire-related emergencies involving structures, aircraft, motor vehicles, wild land, and hazardous materials.

  • Provide emergency medical treatment, including CPR, during fire-related emergencies.

  • Carry out duties related to fire control and extinguishment as part of primary responsibilities.

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 540 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

This announcement uses the Defense Industrial Base, major Range and Test Facilities Direct Hire Authority to Recruit and appoint Qualified Candidates to certain positions in the competitive service.
The Secretary of Defense has ordered a department-wide hiring freeze subject to certain limited exceptions. This position is subject to the DoD hiring freeze. Offers of employment related to this vacancy announcement will not be executed until the position has an approved exemption.Qualifications:GS-05: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-04 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: Performing the duties of rescue operations in fires and fire related emergencies involving structures, aircraft, motor vehicles, wild land, and hazardous materials and providing emergency medical treatment to include but not limited to CPR.
GS-04: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-03 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: Performing the duties of rescue operations in fires and fire related emergencies involving structures, aircraft, motor vehicles, wild land, and hazardous materials and providing emergency medical treatment.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0000/fire-protection-and-prevention-series-0081/
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
Certifications required for this position. Must be issued by either the DOD, the Pro-Board, or the international Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC):
GS-05:
Firefighter I
Firefighter II
Airport Firefighter
Hazardous Materials Awareness
Hazardous Materials Operations
National Registry of EMT
GS4: Incumbent has 1 year to complete the following certifications:
Firefighter I
Firefighter II
Airport Firefighter
Hazardous Materials Awareness
Hazardous Materials Operations
National Registry of EMT
Additional requirements:
Hazardous Material Technician
Driver/Operator Pumper
Driver/Operator Aerial
NOTE: FIREFIGHTER SPECIAL RETIREMENT COVERAGEMAXIMUM ENTRY AGE: Title 5 U.S.C. 3307 authorizes the head of any agency to establish a maximum entry age for the original appointment of individuals to the position of primary and rigorous firefighter. The date immediately preceding an individual's 37th birthday is the maximum entry age for original appointment to a position as a Firefighter (Paramedic). This age restriction does not apply to those who have previously served in a Federal civilian firefighting position covered by title 5 U.S.C. section 3307 provisions OR qualified veteran preferenceeligible covered by title 5 U.S.C. 3307.Primary Position- The employee's primary duties must be performing work directly connected with the control andextinguishment of fires (CSRS and FERS). In general, if an employee spends an average of at least 50% of his/hertime performing a duty or group of duties, they are his/her primary duties. Fire Protection Inspectors, Fire ProtectionSpecialists and positions that are predominantly supervisory in nature or perform training are not consideredprimary positions.Education:
The following education may be substituted in lieu of the specialized experience:
GS-05: Successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university in Fire Training, Fire Science, or another related field of study leading to a bachelor's degree.
or
GS-04: Successful completion of a 2-year course of study in an accredited college or university in Fire Training, Fire Science, or another related field of study. A combination of experience and education as described above that equates to one year of experience. The percentage of the required education plus the percentage of the required experience equal one hundred percent.Employment Type: OTHER

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