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Search Rescue Jobs in Palm Harbor, FL (NOW HIRING)

Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Perform search and rescue (SAR) operations in open water and hazardous conditions. * Provide emergency medical care during recovery missions. * Operate from helicopters such as the MH-60 Seahawk.

Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)

New Port Richey, FL · On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

Perform search and rescue (SAR) operations in open water and hazardous conditions. * Provide emergency medical care during recovery missions. * Operate from helicopters such as the MH-60 Seahawk.

Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Perform search and rescue (SAR) operations in open water and hazardous conditions. * Provide emergency medical care during recovery missions. * Operate from helicopters such as the MH-60 Seahawk.

Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)

Tampa, FL · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Perform search and rescue (SAR) operations in open water and hazardous conditions. * Provide emergency medical care during recovery missions. * Operate from helicopters such as the MH-60 Seahawk.

... search, salvage, repair, and demolition to support carrier and expeditionary strike groups, mine ... Rescue Swimmer preparatory and Rescue Swimmer School for those in that specialty; Class A School in ...

... search, salvage, repair, and demolition to support carrier and expeditionary strike groups, mine ... Rescue Swimmer preparatory and Rescue Swimmer School for those in that specialty; Class A School in ...

... search, salvage, repair, and demolition to support carrier and expeditionary strike groups, mine ... Rescue Swimmer preparatory and Rescue Swimmer School for those in that specialty; Class A School in ...

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Search Rescue information

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Search rescue jobs typically do not pay $4,000 a week without specialized training or experience. High-paying roles that can reach this level often involve skilled trades, sales, or entrepreneurship, but most require specific skills, certifications, or experience rather than a college degree. Jobs in these categories may include real estate agents, sales managers, or certain freelance or business ventures.

How to get hired search and rescue?

To get hired as a search and rescue worker, candidates typically need relevant training, such as wilderness or emergency response certifications, and physical fitness. Many agencies require background checks, CPR certification, and experience in first aid or outdoor survival skills. Volunteering with local rescue organizations can also provide valuable experience and connections for employment.

How much do search and rescue people get paid?

Search and rescue personnel typically earn between $25,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and whether they are volunteers or paid professionals. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and leadership roles, especially in federal or military rescue operations.

What qualifications do you need to be search and rescue?

To become a search and rescue professional, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and training in first aid, CPR, and rescue techniques. Certifications such as FEMA's Technical Rescue or Wilderness First Responder are often required, along with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work in challenging environments.

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.

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 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, and why are they important?

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 Search and Rescue professionals?

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 cities near Palm Harbor, FL are hiring for Search Rescue jobs? Cities near Palm Harbor, FL with the most Search Rescue job openings:
Fire Medic / Firefighter EMT

Fire Medic / Firefighter EMT

City of Clearwater, FL

Clearwater, FL • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


City Of Clearwater (Florida) rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

581st of 693 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Clearwater, FL
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 2026-00185
Department: Fire Department
Division: SUPPRESSION
Opening Date: 06/17/2026
Closing Date: 7/22/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
THE CITY OF CLEARWATER IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future visa sponsorship. City of Clearwater will not sponsor employment visas (e.g., H-1B, or any other work authorization status).
Position Description
CURRENT RECRUITING FOR BOTH FIRE MEDICS AND FIREFIGHTER/EMT
FIRE MEDIC ENTRY SALARY: $70,720.00 annually
FIREFIGHTER/EMT ENTRY SALARY: $59,280.26 annually

General firefighting and rescue work combating, extinguishing, and preventing fires and conducting advanced and basic emergency medical services.
Employees in this classification perform firefighting and emergency medical response activities of a difficult and responsible nature under general supervision of a Fire Lieutenant or higher level supervisor. Work involves providing rescue services and the protection of life through firefighting, fire prevention, first aid and prompt paramedical services with latitude for independent judgment and initiative within departmental, City, County, and State guidelines.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Performs all duties of a Firefighter including search, rescue, and fire suppression operations.
  • Performs emergency medical care within established standard operating procedures and protocols for the purpose of managing and stabilizing the critically ill and injured.
  • Reads, understands, and responds to fire alarm dispatch from computer printout.
  • Safely and effectively operates fire department vehicles.
  • Performs search operations including removing victims from entrapments by carrying or dragging, crawling, and feeling.
  • Locates fire using sense of heat, vision and sound.
  • Verbally relays fire conditions, life hazards, and exposures to officer-in-charge.
  • Understands and follows orders spoken or given by touch and/or visual signals.
  • Pulls hose from apparatus and connects to hydrant or pump apparatus.
  • Operates pump to supply and maintain water pressure.
  • Selects appropriate hose nozzle pattern and operates water charged hose lines of various sizes.
  • Positions and climbs or descends ladders carrying equipment and/or a victim requiring rescue.
  • Operates hand and power tools including chain or circular saws or auto extraction equipment.
  • Examines patients, diagnoses vital signs, and determines symptoms.
  • Administers first aid including CPR. Stops and/or controls bleeding, cleans wounds, and applies dressings and bandages.
  • Performs invasive procedures as approved by the Department.
  • Adheres to local and state rules governing Advanced Life Support (ALS).
  • Prepares reports and maintains documents as necessary.
  • Maintains working knowledge of Medical Operations Manual (MOMS) and current medical procedures and pharmaceuticals.
  • Attends and participates in daily drills and classroom instruction sessions including designated medical training.
  • Operates, inspects, calibrates as necessary, and maintains medical equipment including bag valve mask, blood pressure cuff, and oxygen.
  • Cleans, maintains, and replenishes equipment, sweeps water, and removes debris.
  • Performs general maintenance work in the upkeep of fire stations, grounds, quarters, and apparatus.
  • Performs related tasks as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
FIREFIGHTER/EMT MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High School Diploma, High School Equivalency Diploma, or G.E.D. Certificate
  • Possession of a valid State of Florida certification as a Firefighter
  • Possession of a valid State of Florida EMT Certificate
  • Possession of a valid driver's license
  • Must obtain CJIS (Criminal Justice Information System) Clearance
  • Candidate's hired into a Firefighter/EMT position must obtain a Pinellas County Paramedic Certification within 3 years of hire date.
FIREMEDIC MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High School Diploma, High School Equivalency Diploma, or G.E.D. Certificate.
  • Possession of a valid State of Florida certification as a Firefighter.
  • Possession of a valid State of Florida certification as a Paramedic.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license
  • Must obtain CJIS (Criminal Justice Information System) Clearance
  • Candidate's hired into a Fire Medic position must obtain a Pinellas County Paramedic Certification within 1 year of hire date.
BENEFITS:
  • 100% employee health care coverage
  • City pension plan with a 2.75% multiplier per year of service and retirement eligible with 20 years of service for high-risk employees. Fully vested after 10 years of service
  • Supplemental pension plan
  • Unique work schedule with a Kelly Day every 9 shifts worked with 50-hour work week starting September 2026
  • Merit Pay increase 3% per year up to maximum annual rate of pay
  • Annual Personal Resource Allowance
  • 144 hours of Vacation Leave for years 1-3, up to max of 288 hours at 25 years
  • 4 Floating Holidays per year (will be an adjustment with Kelly Day change beginning September 2026)
  • 10 paid holidays per year
  • Tax-deferred 457 plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement plan
  • City health clinic that is free to all employees and family members who are on the city insurance plan
  • AFLAC
  • Annual physicals at no cost to the employee

Supplemental Information
Clearwater Fire and Rescue is an ISO Class 1 Fire Department whose objective is to advocate and sustain a leading emergency service organization with a focus on quality, cost-effectiveness and all-hazard mitigation that exceeds our customer's expectation. Clearwater Fire and Rescue was established in 1897 and consists of 8 stations and more than
200employees. Emergency services are provided by almost 30 apparatus including 8 ALS engine companies, 5 ALS rescue units, 2 truck companies, 1 squad, 2 District Commanders, 1 fireboat, 1 rescue boat, 3 Jet Skis, and a Dive Unit. The department specialized teams such as the Marine Response Team, Dive Team, and SWAT medics. The department also is part of the Pinellas County Technical Rescue Team. The department has a state-of-art Training Center with a multistory training tower, extrication pad, training props, and updated classrooms. The Training Division consists of two chief officers, three dedicated Training Lieutenants, and adjunct instructors.
  • Thorough knowledge of basic and advanced life support procedures and protocols.
  • Knowledge of standard firefighting and fire prevention procedures.
  • Ability to effectively administer first aid and basic and advanced emergency medical services.
  • Ability to safely and effectively combat and extinguish fires.
  • Ability to learn and comply with department rules, regulations, and policies.
  • Ability to operate a motor vehicle and to learn the geography of the City, location of fire hydrants, and major fire hazards.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and to understand, and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to remain calm and react quickly in emergencies.
  • Ability to meet and maintain departmental requirements of health, physical, and mental condition as established by the Fire Department.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, other City employees, outside agencies, and the general public.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license and obtain State of Florida class E license within first year of employment.

Eligibility Procedure:
  • Candidates must submit an employment application and a copy of his/her State of Florida Firefighter Certificate of Completion and EMT certification and/or Paramedic Certification card online @ www.myclearwater.com
  • In addition, candidates must register with the National Testing Network (NTN) and complete a written examination and physical agility test (CPAT) by the close date of 7/22/2026; results of those assessments must be received by the city by the close date of 7/22/2026. Website can be accessed at: www.nationaltestingnetwork.com

FULL TIME EMPLOYEES ONLY RECEIVE:
Health and Wellness initiatives • 100% employee health care coverage • Option for dependent health care • Life Insurance • Optional Dental, Vision, AFLAC • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Retirement -General Employee Pension Plan • Voluntary Tax-deferred 457 Plan • Paid holiday, vacation, sick leave plans • Competitive Salaries • Tuition assistance • Training and development opportunities • Travel compensation • Military leave • Bereavement leave • Discount coupons • Service and employee recognition awards
PART TIME EMPLOYEES ONLY RECEIVE:
Paid holiday, vacation, sick leave plans • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Competitive hourly rates • Flexible schedules • Training and development opportunities • Discount coupons • Service and employee recognition awards
SEASONAL, VARIABLE, TEMPORARY, EMERGENCY EMPLOYEES RECEIVE NO BENEFITS.
01
What level of Driver's License do you currently possess?
  • CDL A
  • CDL B
  • Regular (E)
  • ID Only
  • Out of State
  • None of the above

02
What is your highest level of education?
  • Masters Degree or higher
  • Bachelors Degree
  • Associates Degree
  • High School Diploma or GED Certificate
  • Completion of 10th grade
  • Less than 10th grade education

03
Do you have a valid State of Florida Firefighter Certification?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have a valid State of Florida EMT Certificate or a State of Florida Paramedic Certificate
  • Yes
  • No

05
In order to be considered for this position, candidates must register with the National Training Network (NTN) and complete a written examination and physical agility test (CPAT) by 7/13/2026. Have you registered with NTN?
  • Yes, I have registered
  • No, I have NOT registered

06
Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B visa status)?"
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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