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Combat Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Air Combat Command

$76K - $98K/yr

... Combat Rescue Officers, and other specialty AFSCs in the performance of their core specialties, mission sets, or advanced skills. Serves as the instructor in specific training phases for the Combat ...

VIGILINT

Rescue Specialist Paramedic

Perform special operations medical support providing initial combat trauma stabilization, enroute ... Providing Technical Rescue services to include: vehicle and aircraft extrication, high-angle rescue ...

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Combat Rescue information

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$916

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How much do combat rescue jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average monthly pay for combat rescue in the United States is $1,697.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,666.67 and $1,708.33 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a combat rescue specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Combat Rescue Specialist, you need advanced medical training, physical fitness, survival skills, and typically must complete specialized military courses such as the USAF Pararescue (PJ) pipeline. Familiarity with tactical communication systems, navigation equipment, and advanced life support certifications like EMT-P are commonly required. Exceptional teamwork, resilience under pressure, and rapid decision-making distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the successful rescue and medical care of personnel in hostile or high-risk environments.

What is a combat rescue?

Combat Rescue personnel, often referred to as Pararescuemen or 'PJs' in the U.S. Air Force, are highly trained specialists tasked with recovering and providing medical treatment to injured military and civilian personnel in combat and crisis situations. They are experts in emergency medical care, survival, and search and rescue operations, often deploying into dangerous environments by land, air, or sea. Their primary mission is to save lives, frequently operating behind enemy lines or in disaster zones, making them critical to both military missions and humanitarian efforts.

Where do combat rescue officers get stationed?

Combat rescue officers are typically stationed at military bases around the world, often near combat zones or strategic locations. They may be assigned to specialized units such as Air Force Pararescue or Army Special Operations, and their postings can vary based on operational needs and deployment requirements.

How hard is it to become a combat rescue officer?

Becoming a combat rescue officer requires meeting strict military requirements, completing specialized training such as survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE), and gaining experience in rescue operations. Candidates often need physical fitness, leadership skills, and the ability to work under high-stress conditions, with selection processes being highly competitive.

What are some common challenges faced by combat rescue personnel during missions, and how are they addressed?

Combat Rescue personnel often face challenges such as operating in hostile or unpredictable environments, working under extreme time constraints, and making rapid decisions with limited information. To address these, teams undergo rigorous training in tactical combat, emergency medical procedures, and survival skills. Strong teamwork, clear communication, and adaptability are essential, as missions frequently require close collaboration with other military units, aircrews, and support staff. Regular debriefings and ongoing training help teams continuously improve their response to these high-pressure situations.

What is the difference between Combat Rescue vs Search and Rescue?

AspectCombat RescueSearch and Rescue
CertificationsMilitary rescue training, CPR, first aidEMS, wilderness rescue, CPR, first aid
Work EnvironmentMilitary combat zones, hostile environmentsNatural disaster sites, wilderness, urban areas
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defenseGovernment agencies, NGOs, emergency services

Combat Rescue and Search and Rescue both involve rescuing individuals in emergency situations. However, Combat Rescue is a military role focused on rescuing personnel in combat zones, often under hostile conditions, requiring military-specific training. Search and Rescue typically involves civilian agencies responding to natural disasters or wilderness emergencies. While both roles require rescue skills and certifications like CPR, Combat Rescue emphasizes military tactics and combat readiness, whereas Search and Rescue emphasizes civilian emergency response skills.

More about Combat Rescue jobs
What job categories do people searching Combat Rescue jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Combat Rescue jobs are:
Combat Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Combat Rescue job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $20,365 per year, or $9.8 per hour.

PARARESCUE TRAINER

Air Combat Command

On-site, Remote

$76K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Summary
Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
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Duties
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Summary:
The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a 68 Rescue Squadron Formal Training Unit (FTU) Pararescue Training Specialist responsible for instructing the upgrade and advanced training requirements of Pararescuemen, Combat Rescue Officers, and other specialty AFSCs in the performance of their core specialties, mission sets, or advanced skills. Serves as the instructor in specific training phases for the Combat Team Member Course (CTMC) and Combat Leaders Course (CLC) in support of the Pararescue (PJ) courses and training.
Duties:
  • Instructs students in classroom, laboratory and field through assigned blocks of instruction focused on AFSPECWAR and Pararescue (PJ) training.
  • Plans, coordinates, and validates AFSPECWAR and Pararescue (PJ) training instructional design.
  • Maintains, updates and develops lesson plans, study guides and workbooks.
  • Provides continuity on Pararescue Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs).

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • U.S. Citizenship Required
  • Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain the Secret security clearance
  • If authorized, PCS will be paid IAW JTR and AF Regulations. If receiving an authorized PCS, you may be subject to completing/signing a CONUS agreement. More information on PCS requirements, may be found at: https://afciviliancareers.com/regulatory/
  • This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program
  • Minimum of six (6) years of knowledge and experience in Special Operations/GA Forces community is highly desirable
  • Incumbent must be qualified in the use of required weapons, as the incumbent will be required to use firearms in performing duties
  • Position requires access to firearms. Persons convicted of a misdemeanor or felony crime of domestic violence may not occupy this position in accordance with the Gun Control Act of 1968, as amended 30 Sep 96
  • Employee must sign DD Form 2760, Qualification to Possess Firearms or Ammunition
  • Disclosure of Political Appointments
  • This position has been designated by the Air Force as a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the Air Force Civilian Drug Demand Reduction Program. Employee must pass initial and periodic short notice drug testing
  • Illegal drug use by employees in sensitive positions presents a clear threat to the mission of the Air Force, national security, and public safety
  • Recruitment Incentive may be authorized for this position. Superior Qualifications demonstrated by your resume may be considered
  • The work requires the employee to drive a motor vehicle. An appropriate, valid driver's license is required for the position
  • Work may occasionally require travel away from the normal duty station on military or commercial aircraft/vehicle to conferences, meetings, or functions away from the duty office/location. Travel may include overnight stays
  • May occasionally be required to work other than normal duty hours and/or Shift work may be required which may include overtime and/or irregular hours
  • IAW SA-2020-25 This position requires a physical/medical examination. The physical/medical requirements of this position as determined are: considerable and strenuous physical exertion, such as frequent climbing of tall ladders, lifting heavy...
  • ...objects over 75 pounds for up to four hours of duration, crouching or crawling in restricted areas, and defending oneself or others against physical attack. Additionally, the employee must be able to lift 225lbs from the floor to...
  • ... waist height and drag and/or carry up to 100 meters to support combat medical recovery operations
  • The instructor will be required to wear provided instructor uniform while performing classroom instruction or adhere to squadron uniform guidance when providing field instruction and operations

Qualifications
In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Professional and Scientific Positions, to include the Individual Occupational Requirements (IOR) for the GS-1701, General Education and Training series.
BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT: A bachelor's degree (or higher degree) that included or was supplemented by major study in education or in a subject-matter field appropriate to the position. Note: You must attach a copy of your transcripts.
OR
Combination of education and experience which includes courses equivalent to a major in education, or in a subject-matter field appropriate to the position, plus appropriate experience or additional course work that provided knowledge comparable to that normally acquired through the successful completion of the four-year course of study. Note: You must attach a copy of your transcripts.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-09, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes knowledge of a wide range of principles and practical methods, techniques, and tools of instruction to teach a variety of students with a range of differences such as diverse ages, backgrounds, learning styles, and levels of interest. Knowledge of principles, practices and techniques of operations at a practical level to include knowledge of specific pararescue procedures, techniques, technology, tactics, systems, equipment and employment methods. Knowledge of training aids and devices used in training programs. Knowledge of tests and measurement principles, techniques, and objectives. Knowledge of flight, safety, parachuting and security programs and operational risk management responsibilities. Skill in accomplishing special training studies and projects. Skill to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and establish and maintain effective working relationships. Ability to modify pararescue training techniques and practices to train on unforeseeable situations.
OR
EDUCATION: Successful completion of a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work of the position. NOTE: You must submit copies of your transcripts.
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION: A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts.
FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-09 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-11 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
1. Knowledge of a wide range of principles and practical methods, techniques, and tools of instruction to teach a variety of students with a range of differences such as diverse ages, backgrounds, learning styles, and levels of interest.
2. Knowledge of principles, practices and techniques of operations at a practical level to include knowledge of specific pararescue procedures, techniques, technology, tactics, systems, equipment and employment methods.
3. Knowledge of training aids and devices used in training programs. Knowledge of tests and measurement principles, techniques, and objectives.
4. Knowledge of flight, safety, parachuting and security programs and operational risk management
responsibilities.
5. Skill in accomplishing special training studies and projects. Skill to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, and establish and maintain effective working relationships.
6. Ability to modify pararescue training techniques and practices to train on unforeseeable situations.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education
IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.
Additional information
Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): For information on how to apply as an ICTAP eligible click here. To be well-qualified and exercise selection priority for this vacancy, displaced Federal employees must be rated well qualified or above for this position. You must submit a copy of the agency notice, your most recent performance rating, and your most recent SF-50 noting position, grade level, and duty location.
Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information.
120-Day Register: This announcement may result in a 120-day register that may be used to fill like vacancies for 120 days after the closing date. Applicants may be referred for consideration as vacancies occur.
Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible: MSP applicants, if determined best qualified, must be selected and placed at the highest grade for which they applied. You must include a completed copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility for MSP. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
Priority Placement Program (PPP) Applicant Eligible: PPP Applicants, if determined well qualified and selected, will be placed at the at the full performance level. You must include the applicable completed copy of the PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility as a PPP Applicant. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist (DD3145-1 through DD3145-4, select the appropriate checklist for your claimed preference). To determine the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist required to substantiate the eligibilities you are claiming, refer to the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide located in the Required Documents section of this vacancy announcement.
Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit.
Disabled veteran leave is available to a Federal employee hired on/after 5 Nov 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. For more information, click here.
If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click here.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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