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Remote Search Rescue Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

HELICOPTER PILOT

Boone, IA · On-site +1

$110.87K - $144.14K/yr

... unimproved strips of remote, isolated villages. This position will be required to make ... Participates in all-weather search and rescue operations as required utilizing a thorough knowledge ...

Remote Search Rescue information

See Iowa salary details

$18.7K

$64.9K

$128.8K

How much do remote search rescue jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote search rescue in Iowa is $64,866.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,130.00 and $76,887.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Search and Rescue specialist, and why are they important?

To excel as a Remote Search and Rescue specialist, you need expertise in emergency response, navigation, outdoor survival, and often certifications in search and rescue operations. Familiarity with GPS devices, mapping software, radio communication systems, and first aid equipment is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure efficient coordination, safety, and successful outcomes during high-stress rescue missions in challenging environments.

How does a Remote Search and Rescue professional typically collaborate with local emergency teams during operations?

Remote Search and Rescue professionals often coordinate closely with local emergency response teams, using digital communication tools and mapping technologies to share real-time information. They may provide remote guidance, analyze satellite imagery, or help plan search strategies while local teams execute operations on the ground. Effective collaboration relies on clear communication, timely data sharing, and an understanding of each team's capabilities. Building strong relationships with local agencies is crucial for successful outcomes.

What are Remote Search and Rescue jobs?

Remote Search and Rescue jobs involve locating and assisting individuals who are lost, injured, or in distress in remote or hard-to-access areas. These professionals may work in wilderness settings, mountainous regions, deserts, or other isolated locations, often responding to emergencies such as lost hikers, natural disasters, or accidents. Their duties can include coordinating search efforts, providing medical aid, and using specialized equipment like GPS, drones, or helicopters. Remote Search and Rescue personnel typically require specialized training in navigation, survival, first aid, and sometimes technical rescue skills. Many positions are with government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private rescue companies.

What is the difference between Remote Search Rescue vs Remote Search Rescue?

AspectRemote Search RescueRemote Search Technician
Required CredentialsCertifications in search and rescue, first aid, GPS navigationCertifications in search techniques, first aid, GPS use
Work EnvironmentRemote, outdoor, wilderness settingsRemote, outdoor, wilderness settings
Employer & Industry UsageRescue agencies, NGOs, governmentRescue agencies, NGOs, government
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding rescue roles and certificationsUnderstanding technician responsibilities and skills

Both Remote Search Rescue and Remote Search Technician roles involve outdoor, remote environments and require similar certifications. However, Search Rescue typically refers to the overall mission of locating and assisting lost persons, while Search Technician focuses on the technical aspects of conducting searches, such as using GPS and search equipment. Both roles are vital in rescue operations and often overlap in skills and work settings.

What are popular job titles related to Remote Search Rescue jobs in Iowa? For Remote Search Rescue jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Remote Search Rescue jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Remote Search Rescue job openings:
HELICOPTER PILOT

HELICOPTER PILOT

Army National Guard Units

Boone, IA • On-site, Remote

$110.87K - $144.14K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Army National Guard rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
IOWA ARMY NATIONAL GUARD - TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION
This position is restricted to current Military members of the Iowa Army National Guard.
LOCATION: AASF 1, Boone, IA
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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As a HELICOPTER PILOT, GS-2181-12 your duties are below.
  1. 1. Pilots a variety of on one or more of the following helicopters: Attack Helicopter (AH-64); Cargo Helicopter (CH-47); Utility Helicopter (UH-60 series), (LUH-72 series) and others when assigned. Routinely operates with short takeoffs and landing capability, in all types of weather, day, and night over a variety of terrains and open bodies of water. Flights are made using landing facilities ranging from modern, improved airport with paved runways and navigational aids to unimproved strips of remote, isolated villages. This position will be required to make reconnaissance and observation flights. Makes test flights and checks all systems in connection with maintenance actions and takes necessary action to correct malfunctions. Participates in all-weather search and rescue operations as required utilizing a thorough knowledge of the terrain features of the geographical area. Conducts flight checks following repairs, maintenance, or installation of approved aircraft system modifications. Responsible for transportation of cargo and transporting passengers, among a variety of familiar destinations (50%)
  2. Performs maintenance operation checks (MOCs) and general test flights of aircraft to ensure airworthiness upon completion of extensive disassembly for maintenance, repair or replacement of components or aircraft systems. Performs general test flights of aircraft upon completion of extensive disassembly, reassembly, and maintenance, repair, or replacement of parts where tests cannot determine the safe and or proper functioning of aircraft components or systems; and ensures the airworthiness component or aircraft systems. Performs acceptance test flights of new aircraft when required. (40%)
  3. Serves as a member of a board pertaining to aviation accidents, flight evaluation, collateral investigations, standardization, and federal recognition. (10%)
  4. Performs other duties as assigned. D2929000

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED: This is an excepted position that requires military membership in a compatible military assignment in the Iowa Army National Guard. Selectee will be required to wear the military uniform. Acceptance of this excepted position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment.
APPLICATION MATERIALS MUST BE RECEIVED BY 05/27/2026 . FAILURE TO PROVIDE COMPLETE INFORMATION MAY RESULT IN YOUR NOT RECEIVING CONSIDERATION FOR THIS POSITION. Please refer to the Qualifications and Evaluations Section of this Announcement to understand the qualification requirements, and the How to Apply Section for detailed instruction on applying.
TRIAL PERIOD REQUIREMENT: As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 2-year trial period or 1-year (Veterans Preference Eligibles Only) during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
  • Your performance and conduct.
  • The needs and interests of the agency.
  • Whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
  • Whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Upon completion of your trial period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENT: Employment is subject to attaining and maintaining a clearance as required by this position. If the selectee does not possess the applicable security clearance when hired, application must be made within 30 days of the start date. Failure to make application for the required security clearance will result in termination of employment.
Failure to complete prescribed courses may be cause for reassignment or termination of FTS.
Incumbent must posses and continue to maintain a US Army Class II Flight Physical.
Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
Military Rank Requirements: WARRANT OFFICERS (CW5 and Below)
Qualifications
In describing your experience, please be clear and specific. We will not make assumptions regarding your experience. Applicants who do not fully address the minimum/specialized experience needed for the position in their resume will not be referred for consideration.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Must have a competent understanding of the occupation's basic principles and concepts. Applicants should have a minimum of one year on-the-job experience in the grade (or a comparable military rank) immediately below the next higher level.
Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: GS-2181-12: Must haveexperience in the following:
  • Must have at least two years specialized competencies in operating a specific main-frame military aircraft, mission planning, and mission preparation
  • Experiences in civilian aviation programs; or, in military service aviation programs (active duty or reserve components); or, in the Army National Guard Aviation Support facilities; or, in Air National Guard Wing/ Operations Groups.
  • Experienced in reviewing and analyzing mission tasking, intelligence, and weather information.
  • Experienced in filing flight plans and conducting crew briefings.
  • Experienced in aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, and equipment assessments.
  • Experienced in performing or supervising work procedures involved in navigation, in-flight refueling, search and rescue operations or surveillance and reconnaissance.
  • Knowledge is required in flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, mission tactics, and operating procedures.
  • Experienced in the unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs

Education
Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
Must have a high school diploma or general education development (GED) diploma. An undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university is optimum.
To receive credit for education, you must provide college transcripts to support your educational claims.
Additional information
ENLISTMENT CASH BONUSES: Acceptance of a technician position may affect any bonus and/or educational assistance that may be applicable. Please contact your Education Office prior to accepting a position with the Iowa Army National Guard.
Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
If you are a male applicant born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (https://www.sss.gov/RegVer/wfRegistration.aspx).
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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.
Review our benefits
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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About Army National Guard

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The Army National Guard, headquartered in Arlington, VA, is a key constituent of the United States military, falling under the sector of Defense and Public Safety. Since its founding in 1636, it has served dual roles as both a state and federal military force that is activated in response to domestic emergencies and overseas combat missions. The Army National Guard embodies core values, including loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, intending to uphold peace and serve the nation with unwavering dedication.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US