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Search Rescue Jobs in Knoxville, TN (NOW HIRING)

Teledyne

Manufacturing Manager

Oak Ridge, TN

... search-and-rescue teams do their jobs better. We're looking for passionate innovators eager to shape the future of the Defense and Public Safety industries. If you're mission-driven to globally ...

Teledyne FLIR LLC

Manufacturing Manager

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

... search-and-rescue teams do their jobs better. We're looking for passionate innovators eager to shape the future of the Defense and Public Safety industries. If you're mission-driven to globally ...

Teledyne

Manufacturing Test Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

... search-and-rescue teams do their jobs better. We're looking for passionate innovators eager to shape the future of the Defense and Public Safety industries. If you're mission-driven to globally ...

Teledyne

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$95K - $118K/yr

... search-and-rescue teams do their jobs better. We're looking for passionate innovators eager to shape the future of the Defense and Public Safety industries. If you're mission-driven to globally ...

Teledyne

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

... search-and-rescue teams do their jobs better. We're looking for passionate innovators eager to shape the future of the Defense and Public Safety industries. If you're mission-driven to globally ...

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All JobsSearch Rescue JobsSearch Rescue Jobs in Knoxville, TN

Search Rescue information

See Knoxville, TN salary details

$14.7K

$50.5K

$102.9K

How much do search rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for search rescue in Knoxville, TN is $50,499.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,184.00 and $62,814.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
More about Search Rescue jobs

What cities near Knoxville, TN are hiring for Search Rescue jobs?

Cities near Knoxville, TN with the most Search Rescue job openings:

Search Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Search Rescue job openings in Knoxville, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,499 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Part Time Firefighter

Maryville, TN

Blount County Fire Protection District
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Blount County Fire Protection Districtexternal

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Company Description

The Blount County Fire Protection District is a Non-Profit Public Utility District providing:

Fire Suppression - Hazardous Material Response - Vehicle Rescue - Water Rescue - Land Search - High Angle Rescue - Collapse Rescue - Trench Rescue - Fire Prevention - Public Fire Education

Job Description

Blount County Fire Protection District is accepting applications for Part-time and Volunteer positions.
You must be willing to, among other requirements, help make a positive difference in our community, be of good character, pass a background check, a drug test, a physical and be physically able to handle the requirements of the job. Applications will be accepted until September 25, 2016 for the entry level training class.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma/GED
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving history
  • Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
Additional Information

Training will be provided for all accepted applicants. No previous fire experience required.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply