1

Pararescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$76K - $98K/yr

Provides continuity on Pararescue Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs). Requirements Help Conditions of employment * Must complete initial online questionnaire and additional assessment(s) * U.

SOCM, 18D, SOIDC/SARC, PJ/Pararescue • Advanced Providers: Physician Assistants (PA), Nurse Practitioners (NP), or Physicians (DO/MD) All candidates must have significant tactical/operational field ...

Experience in career fields such as Pararescue (PJ), Special Operations Combat Medic graduates (18D/68WW1), Special Operations Independent Duty Corpsman (SOIDC), or Special Operations-Independent ...

Pararescue Pipeline graduate OR Special Operations Combat Medical Course (SOCM) OR Special Operations Combat Medical Course (SOCM) AND Special Forces Medical Sergeant Course (SFMS) MOS 18-D (SOCM ...

Pararescue Pipeline graduate OR Special Operations Combat Medical Course (SOCM) OR Special Operations Combat Medical Course (SOCM) AND Special Forces Medical Sergeant Course (SFMS) MOS 18-D (SOCM ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Pararescue information

See salary details

$27.5K

$59.1K

$81.5K

How much do pararescue jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for pararescue in the United States is $59,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a pararescue specialist do?

Pararescue specialists, also known as PJs, are elite U.S. Air Force personnel responsible for recovering and providing medical aid to injured military members in combat and civilian rescue operations. They are highly trained in combat medicine, survival, parachuting, diving, and mountaineering. Their mission is to rescue and recover personnel in extreme conditions, often behind enemy lines or in disaster-stricken areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pararescue specialist?

To thrive as a Pararescue, you need advanced medical knowledge, physical fitness, survival skills, and successful completion of the rigorous Air Force Pararescue training pipeline. Certification as an Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (EMT-P) and proficiency with specialized rescue and tactical equipment are essential. Exceptional teamwork, resilience under pressure, and decision-making skills help distinguish top performers in this demanding field. These abilities are vital to effectively execute complex rescue missions in challenging environments and ensure the safety and survival of those in need.

What types of missions can I expect to participate in as a pararescue specialist?

As a Pararescue specialist, you will engage in a wide variety of missions ranging from personnel recovery in combat zones to civilian search and rescue operations during natural disasters. You may be deployed to remote or hazardous locations via air, land, or sea, often working closely with other special operations units and allied forces. Your responsibilities typically include providing emergency medical care, conducting extractions, and ensuring the safe evacuation of injured personnel. The unpredictable nature of the work means each mission can present unique challenges and require quick adaptation and strong collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.

Is pararescue hard to get into?

Pararescue is a highly competitive military special operations career that requires rigorous physical and mental training, including passing demanding tests, medical evaluations, and security clearances. Candidates typically need strong swimming skills, endurance, and resilience, along with a commitment to continuous training and certification. The selection process is challenging and selective due to the critical nature of the role.

What jobs can you get after being a Pararescue?

Pararescue personnel develop skills in emergency medical treatment, rescue operations, and physical endurance, which can qualify them for roles such as emergency medical technicians, search and rescue specialists, or tactical medics. Their training also provides a strong foundation for careers in firefighting, law enforcement, or military special operations. Certifications in CPR, first aid, and survival skills are often beneficial for these transitions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pararescue jobs?

The most popular types of Pararescue jobs are:

What states have the most Pararescue jobs?

States with the most job openings for Pararescue jobs include:

Infographic showing various Pararescue job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, 67% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,123 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

PARARESCUE TRAINER

On-site, Remote

$76K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Summary
Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
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
Help
Conditions of employment
  • Must complete initial online questionnaire and additional assessment(s)
  • U.S. Citizenship is required
  • Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain the Secret security clearance
  • This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program
  • 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/
  • 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
  • Disclosure of Political Appointments
  • All federal employees are required to have direct deposit.
  • Employee must sign DD Form 2760, Qualification to Possess Firearms or Ammunition
  • 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
  • Depending on the type of position (competitive/excepted) you are selected for, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period OR 2-year trial period.
  • Upon completion of your probationary/trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
  • 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

Qualifications
Conditions Of Employment continued
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
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 FOR ACTIVE DUTY SERVICES MEMBERS
ACTIVE DUTY SERVICE MEMBERS: The VOW Act requires federal agencies to treat an eligible active duty service member as a veteran, disabled veteran, and preference eligible (as applicable) when applying for civil service positions before the effective release or discharge date. Appointment of military members before the release or discharge date is permissible if the member is on terminal leave. At the time the active duty member applies for a civil position, he or she must submit a "certification" memo in lieu of a DD-Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. Active duty members applying for a civil service position without submitting a valid certification memo or DD-Form 214 with their application will render the member ineligible for the position. The certification memo must originate from the member's military service branch on official letterhead and contain the following:
  • Name/Rank/Grade of Service Member
  • Branch of Armed Forces
  • Dates of Active Service (Start and End Date(s)
  • Expected Date of Discharge/Release from Active Duty
  • Terminal leave start date (if applicable)
  • Expected character of service (honorable or general) and type of separation (i.e. separation or retirement)
  • Must be certified within 120 days of anticipated discharge
  • Signature by, or by direction of the adjutant, personnel office, unit commander, or higher headquarters commander.

Note: The VOW Act provides tentative preference. If appointed, a DD Form-214 must be submitted upon receipt
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.