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Search And Rescue Jobs in Washington, VA (NOW HIRING)

Performs search and rescue functions at accidents, emergency scenes, and disaster areas; * Serves criminal warrants and search warrants; * Completes and reviews paperwork documenting shift activities ...

Police Sergeant

Warrenton, VA · On-site

$68K - $109K/yr

Performs search and rescue functions at accidents, emergency scenes, and disaster areas; * Serves criminal warrants and search warrants; * Completes and reviews paperwork documenting shift activities ...

Police Officer

Warrenton, VA · On-site

$51K - $81K/yr

... rescue functions at accidents, emergency scenes and disaster areas; 8. Serves criminal and search warrants; 9. Completes and/or reviews paperwork documenting shift activities, offenses and incidents ...

Police Officer

Warrenton, VA · On-site

$51K - $81K/yr

... rescue functions at accidents, emergency scenes and disaster areas; 8. Serves criminal and search warrants; 9. Completes and/or reviews paperwork documenting shift activities, offenses and incidents ...

Search And Rescue information

What is the difference between Search And Rescue vs Emergency Medical Technician?

AspectSearch And RescueEmergency Medical Technician
Required CertificationsRescue certifications, CPR, first aid, specialized rescue trainingEMT certification, CPR, first aid
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, rugged terrains, disaster sites, wilderness areasAmbulances, hospitals, emergency scenes
Employer & IndustryRescue agencies, fire departments, military, NGOsHospitals, ambulance services, emergency response teams

Search And Rescue professionals focus on locating and assisting individuals in wilderness, disaster, or remote environments, often requiring specialized rescue skills. Emergency Medical Technicians provide immediate medical care in emergency settings, primarily within urban or hospital environments. While both roles require CPR and first aid certifications, Search And Rescue emphasizes rescue operations, whereas EMTs concentrate on medical treatment. Understanding these differences helps individuals choose the right career path based on their skills and interests.

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

To thrive as a Search and Rescue professional, you need strong physical fitness, navigation and survival skills, and relevant field certifications such as EMT or wilderness first aid. Familiarity with GPS systems, two-way radios, mapping software, and rescue equipment is typically required. Exceptional teamwork, quick decision-making, and resilience under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure effective and safe operations during emergencies, maximizing successful outcomes in challenging and unpredictable environments.

What are Search and Rescue (SAR) teams?

Search and Rescue (SAR) teams are specialized groups trained to locate, assist, and recover individuals who are lost, injured, or in imminent danger, often in remote or hazardous environments. They operate on land, at sea, or in urban settings, and may respond to incidents like natural disasters, missing persons cases, or accidents. SAR teams are typically comprised of professionals and volunteers with expertise in navigation, first aid, survival, and rescue techniques. Their mission is to provide rapid response and life-saving support until further help arrives.

What are the typical work environments and team dynamics in a Search and Rescue role?

Search and Rescue professionals often work in diverse and challenging environments, including wilderness areas, mountainous terrain, urban disaster zones, and at sea. The role requires close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams that may include emergency medical personnel, law enforcement, firefighters, and volunteers. Team members rely on clear communication, rapid decision-making, and strong trust in one another to ensure safety and mission success. Flexibility and adaptability are essential, as the work schedule can include irregular hours and rapid deployment in response to emergencies.
What cities near Washington, VA are hiring for Search And Rescue jobs? Cities near Washington, VA with the most Search And Rescue job openings:
Infographic showing various Search And Rescue job openings in Washington, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Police Sergeant

Town of Warrenton

Warrenton, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description

Grade 11


GENERAL DEFINITION OF WORK:

Under the general supervision of a Lieutenant (as assigned), performs supervisory and general law enforcement work in order to preserve public peace and order; to protect lives, property and rights of the public; the enforce the law; and, to diminish crime and provide a safe environment for the Town of Warrenton. Work involves supervising and participating in activities of the uniform patrol or criminal investigations, offering advice and assistance to subordinate personnel as problems arise, and continually observing personnel to ensure that law enforcement work meets accepted standards.


This is medium work requiring the exertion of 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; work requires climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, and feeling; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring devices, operation of machines, operation of motor vehicles or equipment, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions, extreme cold, extreme heat, noise, vibration, hazards, atmospheric conditions, and oils. The worker may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens and may be required to wear specialized personal protective equipment.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TYPICAL TASKS:

  1. Manages Patrol Officers or Detectives on an assigned shift;
  2. Briefs Officers/Detectives on daily work assignments and transmits communications, orders, policies and other administrative directives;
  3. Observes and instructs new personnel;
  4. Assists and instructs subordinates, as necessary;
  5. Resolves problems as non-routine situations arise;
  6. Inspects Officers'/Detectives' appearance, vehicles, and equipment to ensure adherence to established standards;
  7. Assists subordinates in response to service calls; assumes command of law enforcement activity at scenes of emergencies and major crimes until relieved by superior;
  8. Reduces the commission of crimes and maintains law enforcement by deterrence through high visibility patrol throughout the Town. Apprehends and/or arrests persons who violate statutory law and/or municipal ordinances;
  9. Monitors radio calls; communicates with radio dispatcher and responds to complains, reports of criminal events; requests for law enforcement, and domestic or public disputes. Inspects troublesome areas and checks security of business establishments.
  10. Gathers information in criminal investigations by interviewing victims, witnesses, and suspects; performs searches of people, vehicles and buildings; prepares investigative reports of findings, facts and related information; and, makes arrests and processes basis for probably cause for criminal acts and testifies in court.
  11. Enforces traffic laws and regulations. Detects traffic violators; performs traffic accident investigations and makes reports. Facilitates the movement of traffic and pedestrians around accidents, disabled traffic control devices, or heavily congested areas. Assists disabled motorists. Directs traffic for funerals and other public gatherings;
  12. Performs search and rescue functions at accidents, emergency scenes, and disaster areas;
  13. Serves criminal warrants and search warrants;
  14. Completes and reviews paperwork documenting shift activities, offenses and incidents, victim and suspect statements and other related information;
  15. Assists other law enforcement personnel and agencies;
  16. Participates in a variety of law enforcement training and maintains certifications; may train other personnel on radar, firearms, chemical agents, etc.;
  17. Engages in public relations and community service activities and events to promote a positive image for the Department and to build a cooperative and collaborative relationship with the community;
  18. Maintains contact via land line or cell phone;
  19. Performs related tasks as required.




Requirements

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Working knowledge of the principles, practices, procedures and techniques of law enforcement and security, and applicable ordinances, laws and regulations. Maintain some knowledge of principles and practices of supervision. Considerable skill in the use of Police equipment relevant to the job, and in the use of carried weapons. Demonstrated ability to apply and interpret laws, rules and regulations; to perform investigations; to effectively communicate both orally or in writing; to supervise or lead others in the performance of assigned tasks; to maintain positive public relations; and, to meet physical demands of job duties.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school with coursework in criminal justice or related field. At least four years law enforcement experience with a minimum of two years experience at the rank of Corporal (or approved equivalent) or higher.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of an appropriate driver's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Possession of Basic Law Enforcement Training certification. Must meet and maintain all department training and education requirements for position.