1

Search Rescue Jobs in Cary, NC (NOW HIRING)

Police Cadet

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

$51K/yr

... search and arrest and when force may be used and to what degree. 4.Operate a law enforcement ... Pursue fleeing suspects and perform rescue operations which may involve quickly entering and ...

Police Cadet

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

$51K/yr

... search and arrest and when force may be used and to what degree. 4.Operate a law enforcement ... Pursue fleeing suspects and perform rescue operations which may involve quickly entering and ...

Search Rescue information

What is a search and rescue professional?

Search and Rescue (SAR) professionals are trained individuals who locate and assist people who are lost, injured, or in danger, often in remote or hazardous environments. Their work may involve searching for missing hikers, rescuing disaster victims, or providing emergency medical assistance. SAR teams can include volunteers and professionals from various backgrounds such as law enforcement, firefighting, emergency medical services, and the military. Their operations often require specialized skills like navigation, first aid, and survival techniques. These professionals play a crucial role in responding to emergencies and saving lives.

What are jobs in search and rescue?

Jobs in search & rescue, often abbreviated to SAR, involve supervising, training, planning, and coordinating SAR missions and crews that provide on-call support for emergencies and disasters. The duties and responsibilities of these jobs focus on directing staff during rescue efforts as well as volunteers who are helping search for missing people. These positions are found in law enforcement, national parks, the military, and even some non-profit organizations. SAR missions involve using planes, boats, or other exploration devices to traverse terrain, track signals, and otherwise locate people who need rescuing. Job qualifications include strong leadership and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a search and rescue professional?

To thrive as a Search and Rescue professional, you need strong physical fitness, situational awareness, and knowledge of emergency response procedures, often backed by certifications such as EMT or wilderness first responder. Familiarity with GPS navigation, radio communication equipment, and rescue tools like ropes and stretchers is essential. Excellent teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this field. These skills ensure effective coordination, quick decision-making, and successful outcomes in high-stress, life-saving situations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in search and rescue roles, and how can new team members prepare for them?

Search and Rescue professionals often encounter physically demanding environments, unpredictable weather, and high-stress situations requiring quick decision-making. New team members should be prepared for irregular hours, including nights and weekends, and the need to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams such as emergency medical personnel and local law enforcement. Building strong physical fitness, staying current on technical rescue skills, and developing effective communication abilities are key to overcoming these challenges and contributing successfully to the team.

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

AspectSearch RescueSearch and Rescue Technician
CertificationsFirst aid, CPR, basic rescue trainingAdvanced rescue certifications, technical rescue training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, varied terrains, emergency situationsOutdoor, technical rescue scenarios, often specialized
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, NGOs, militaryEmergency services, specialized rescue teams
Search & Comparison IntentGeneral search and rescue rolesTechnical rescue operations, specialized skills

Search Rescue involves basic to intermediate rescue efforts in outdoor environments, often performed by volunteers or general emergency personnel. Search and Rescue Technicians typically have advanced training and perform technical rescues in complex scenarios. While both roles focus on saving lives, Search and Rescue Technicians require specialized skills and certifications for technical rescue operations.

Can I get paid for search and rescue?

Search and rescue personnel are often paid employees, especially when working for government agencies, emergency services, or contracted organizations. Compensation varies based on the agency, location, experience, and whether the role is full-time or volunteer; paid positions typically include benefits and require training and certifications such as first aid or technical rescue skills.

What qualifications do you need to be a search and rescue?

To become a search and rescue professional, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant certifications such as CPR and first aid, and specialized training in rescue techniques, navigation, and survival skills. Physical fitness, the ability to work in challenging environments, and often certification in areas like wilderness or urban rescue are also important.

What job categories do people searching Search Rescue jobs in Cary, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Search Rescue jobs in Cary, NC are:

What cities near Cary, NC are hiring for Search Rescue jobs?

Cities near Cary, NC with the most Search Rescue job openings:

Infographic showing various Search Rescue job openings in Cary, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Emergency Management Preparedness Coordinator

Alamance County Government

Graham, NC

$63K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Purpose This is professional analytical work in the Office of Emergency Management in developing plans for preparedness, response, recovery, and hazard mitigation as related to emergency and disaster events. Work may also involve responsibility for developing, implementing, and evaluating plans, policies, and procedures for special emphasis emergency programs or services provided by the Emergency Management Office. An employee will research and write plans of response for specifc disaster situations such as hazardous material spills, severe weather situations, search and rescue activities, nuclear accidents, and healthcare preparedness responses.

Employees incorporate these plans into the comprehensive plan for the county, review the emergency plans developed by local government, and participate in major response and recovery operations. Based on the analysis of operations during an emergency, employees make appropriate changes to existing plans and consult with local officials on the plans. Responsibilities Develops, implements and evaluates plans, policies and procedures for special emphasis emergency programs or services provided by the division.

Researches and writes plans of response for specific disaster situations such as hazardous material spills, severe weather situations, search and rescue activities, nuclear accidents, and terrorist attacks. Incorporates and reviews emergency plans into a comprehensive plan for the County. Participates in major response and recovery operations.

Continuously evaluates plans, in and outside of emergency situations, to ensure appropriate changes to existing plans are implemented and communicated with other local officials as applicable. Carry out all duties and requirements in accordance with the Public Health Addendum relevant to a healthcare preparedness coordinator. Cover on call, and must be available for call back during emergency situations.

Qualifications Associate's degree in emergency management or related field of study from an accredited college or university with two years of progressively responsible related experience. (Experience is defined as being directly involved with decision-making, plan writing, training, exercise, and active participation in response, mitigation, preparedness, and recovery phases of emergency management); or any combination of education, training, and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Computer & Technology Skills: Prior computer skills and experience with Microsoft Windows.

Prior experience with Communication Equipment, including radios, audiovisual equipment, GIS equipment, and GPS units. License/Credentials: Possession of a valid NC driver's license. Must have the ability to teach Emergency Management Programs and conduct public outreach.

Hazardous Materials Operations certification is preferred. Must be credentialed to the ICS 300 level. Must obtain or possess NC Emergency Management Associate Emergency Manager within 2 years of hire.

Skills & Abilities PHYSICAL DEMANDS: N (Not Applicable) Activity is not applicable to this position. O (Occasionally) Position requires this activity up to 33% of the time (0 - 2.5+ hrs./day) F (Frequently) Position requires this activity from 33% - 66% of the time (2.5 - 5.5+ hrs./day) C (Constantly) Position requires this activity more than 66% of the time (5.5+ hrs./day) Physical Demands Lift/Carry Stand F Walk F Sit F Manually Manipulate O Reach Outward O Reach Above Shoulder O Climb O Crawl O Squat or Kneel O Bend Hear See Taste O F C F 10 lbs. or less F 11-20 lbs

F 21-50 lbs. O 51-100 lbs. O Over 100 lbs.

O Push/Pull 12 lbs. or less F 13-25 lbs. O 26-40 lbs.

O 41-100 lbs. O Other Physical Requirements Vision (Near, Distance, Peripheral) WORK ENVIRONMENT Most work will be performed within an office setting but work may require visits and inspections in a variety of locations. Must be able to periodically walk over rough terrain and maneuver in close surroundings.