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Entry Level Search Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Firefighter

Maumelle, AR · On-site

$44K/yr

... search and rescue and extrication operations; operates equipment; reloads equipment on apparatus ... assists with entry level and promotional tests. Minimum Qualifications To perform this job ...

Description The Sheriff's Department has one (1) vacancy for a Sheriff's Deputy- Entry Level Only ... Such assignments include, but are not limited to, functioning as canine handler, search and rescue ...

This position is an entry level position, which may or may not possess a current fire fighter ... Performs search and rescue operations at the scene of a fire or emergency; extricates people from ...

This position is an entry level position, which may or may not possess a current fire fighter ... Performs search and rescue operations at the scene of a fire or emergency; extricates people from ...

This position is an entry level position, which may or may not possess a current fire fighter ... Performs search and rescue operations at the scene of a fire or emergency; extricates people from ...

Fire Fighter

Americus, GA · On-site

$40K/yr

... search and rescue operations, and provide basic trauma and life support to sick or injured persons ... All Applicants for the entry level position of Fire Fighter must show proof of successfully passing ...

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Entry Level Search Rescue information

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How much do entry level search rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level search rescue in the United States is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Search Rescue vs Search and Rescue Technician?

AspectEntry Level Search RescueSearch and Rescue Technician
CertificationsBasic first aid, CPR, and rescue certificationsAdvanced first aid, technical rescue, and specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, variable terrains, often in remote areasOutdoor, technical rescue scenarios, often in challenging environments
Employer & IndustryVolunteer organizations, local agencies, emergency servicesGovernment agencies, specialized rescue teams, military
Search & Comparison IntentIntroductory roles, entry-level positionsMore experienced, technical roles in search and rescue

Entry Level Search Rescue positions are typically entry-level roles requiring basic certifications and involve outdoor rescue work in various terrains. Search and Rescue Technicians usually have advanced certifications and perform more technical rescue operations. Both roles are vital in emergency response, but they differ in experience, training, and complexity of tasks.

What types of training and support can entry level search rescue team members expect when starting out?

Entry-level search and rescue (SAR) team members typically receive comprehensive training that covers essential skills such as navigation, first aid, teamwork, and the use of specialized equipment. New recruits often participate in both classroom instruction and hands-on field exercises to prepare for real-world scenarios. Ongoing mentorship from experienced team members is common, ensuring that newcomers feel supported as they learn protocols and integrate into the team. This structured environment helps build confidence and competence, enabling entry-level SAR professionals to contribute effectively to missions and grow within the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level search rescue professional?

To thrive as an Entry Level Search and Rescue professional, you need physical fitness, basic first aid knowledge, situational awareness, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with GPS devices, two-way radios, mapping software, and certifications like CPR or wilderness first aid are commonly required. Teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure effective and safe operations during emergency response and rescue missions.

What is an entry level search rescue job?

Entry level search and rescue jobs involve assisting with locating and helping people who are lost, injured, or in danger, often in outdoor or disaster settings. These positions typically include tasks such as searching for missing persons, providing first aid, and supporting more experienced rescue personnel. Entry level roles may be with government agencies, volunteer organizations, or private rescue teams, and often require physical fitness, basic emergency training, and a willingness to work in challenging conditions. Training is usually provided on the job, and certifications such as CPR and first aid are often required. This field offers a meaningful way to help others and can lead to more advanced rescue positions with experience.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Search Rescue jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Search Rescue job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Search Rescue jobs? The most popular types of Search Rescue jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Search Rescue jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Search Rescue jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Search Rescue jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Search Rescue jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Search Rescue job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,227 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Firefighter Paramedic- Entry Level

City of Riverside

Riverside, CA • On-site

$87K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


City Of Riverside (California) rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 841 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Position Firefighter Paramedic ENTRY LEVEL Candidates must possess a current California or National Registry Paramedic certificate. Successful completion of a State Fire Marshal approved Fire Academy/or equivalent IFSAC PROBOARD Certification. No on the job experience Required.

The City of Riverside offers a competitive compensation package, retirement through CALPERS, and a generous benefit package. Firefighters may be eligible for a variety of additional compensation including specialty, bilingual, and education incentive pay. The City of Riverside Fire Department is a progressive, all-risk department responsible for the protection of a diverse population of over 320,000 people, covering nearly 82 square miles.

Under the direction of Fire Chief Steve McKinster, The City of Riverside Fire Department protects life, property, and the environment from 14 stations, responding to more than 45,000 calls for service. The department offers a variety of specialty programs, including Urban Search & Rescue, Hazardous Materials, and Arson Investigations. Under the supervision of a Company Officer, Firefighters are responsible for performing a broad range of duties in the protection of life and property.

Work involves suppressing, extinguishing, and preventing fires; rendering emergency medical care; and participating in training programs and fire prevention activities. Firefighters operate, inspect, and maintain firefighting apparatus, equipment, and facilities, and may be assigned to conduct fire inspections or related prevention activities. Employees in this classification are also required to participate in drills and evolutions with individual companies as well as multi-company operations.

This position requires the consistent exercise of sound judgment, strict adherence to established policies and procedures, and the ability to maintain a state of operational readiness. Work Performed Typical duties include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Respond to fire alarms, rescue alarms, medical emergency, and other emergency calls to protect life and property endangered by fire; operate various communications equipment. Respond to requests for medical emergencies; provide immediate medical care to persons injured in automobile accidents, fires, industrial accidents, and victims of sudden serious illness such as heart attacks, drownings, and similar emergencies; observe and report vital signs; and administer medical treatment.

Serve as a hose operator in firefighting situations; lay and connect hoses; hold nozzle and direct water streams in the control and extinguishing of fires in structures, brush, and grass; clean and test fire hoses; raise, lower, and climb aerial ladders; perform rescue work and remove persons from danger. Ventilate structures using such techniques as opening windows and chopping holes through the roof; use forcible entry tools, bars, hooks, life lines, chemical extinguishers, and other auxiliary equipment; assist in overhaul and salvage operations; sweep water and remove debris. Perform preventive maintenance and daily inspections on fire apparatus; inspect fire apparatus after each operation to ensure proper and efficient operating condition; clean, wash, and service fire apparatus; test, wash, hang, and dry hoses; change hoses on fire apparatus; report worn, damaged, or lost parts and tools.

Clean and maintain station quarters, grounds, and equipment; perform routine housekeeping chores such as sweeping, mopping, cooking, and washing; assist visitors at the station and conduct tours. Conduct fire prevention inspection and education programs; serve as a fire inspector, inspecting commercial and other properties for fire hazards and compliance with fire prevention codes and ordinances, and participating in or conducting investigations to determine fire causes. Participate in continuous training in fire prevention, inspection, and suppression through fire drills, training exercises, simulations, and on-the-job exercises to maintain occupational skills.

Study technical material on Fire Department rules and regulations, fire hazards, and modern firefighting techniques, City layout, water systems, and related subjects. Prepare reports on preventive maintenance and with respect to work operations. Work 24-hour shifts and overtime; may be recalled to duty in cases of emergency.

Serve as a substitute fire engineer under special instructions and limited conditions on a relief or training basis; operate and maintain motorized firefighting equipment; operate and adjust pump controls and other mechanical equipment to maintain correct water pressure consistent with the type of fire; drive and operate the tiller position on a ladder truck; operate ladder mechanism on an aerial truck; place truck to best advantage to facilitate firefighting. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Successful completion of the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) written test with a passing score of 70% or above and Candidate Physical Agility Test (CPAT). Must be completed and present on the FCTC Statewide Eligibility list (SEL) on 7/30/36.

Education: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade and successful completion of a State Fire Marshal approved Fire Academy. Experience: None required. Necessary Special Requirements: Possession of a valid Class "C" California Motor Vehicle Operator's License.

Paramedic: Must possess a current California or National Registry Paramedic certificate. Applicants must possess the following by time of appointment: CPR Card or REMSA-approved equivalent: current and valid American Heart Association (AHA), American Red Cross (ARC), or California-approved BCLS/CPR card ("professional" level). ACLS/ALS or REMSA-approved equivalent: current and valid American Heart Association (AHA) Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) OR American Red Cross (ARC) Advanced Life Support (ALS) provider card.

PALS/ALS PEPP: current and valid American Heart Association (AHA) OR American Red Cross (ARC) Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) provider card OR proof of successful completion of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Advanced Life Support (ALS) Pediatric Education for Prehospital Professionals (PEPP) course. PHTLS/ITLS/TPATC: proof of successful completion of the National Association of EMTs (NAEMT) Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) course OR the American College of Emergency Physicians' (ACEP) International Trauma Life Support (ITLS) course OR Air and Surface Transport Nurse Association (ASTNA) Transport Professional Advanced Trauma Course (TPATC). Selection Process The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening.

Additionally, this process will include oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification. It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment.

Appointment will be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, medical/physical examination, drug and alcohol test. NOTE: The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards. All applicants will be notified via e-mail of their application status after the closing date of this announcement.


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