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Search Rescue Jobs in San Diego, CA (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

RF Datalinks Systems Engineer

Poway, CA · On-site

Provide Subject Matter Expert (SME) and technical leadership role for satellite ground terminal systems, Identify Friend or Foe (IFF), VHF/UHF Radios, Search and Rescue (SAR) systems to support UAV ...

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

San Diego, CA · On-site

... Gunfire Support, search and rescue operations and other matters pertaining to the Operations Specialist's area PAY AND BENEFITS From the day you start, you'll receive: * Competitive salary

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

San Diego, CA · On-site

... Gunfire Support, search and rescue operations and other matters pertaining to the Operations Specialist's area PAY AND BENEFITS From the day you start, you'll receive: * Competitive salary

US Department of the Navy

FIREFIGHTER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$47K/yr

... search and rescue operations, performing invasive and non-invasive emergency and medical procedures. NOTE: This information must be supported in your resume to be considered for the position.

Petco

Petco Love - Data Analyst

San Diego, CA · On-site

Our flagship platform, Petco Love Lost, is an AI/ML-powered national lost and found pet search tool ... Knowledge of the shelter/rescue ecosystem, pet reunification, or pet adoption platforms. #LI-AT2 ...

U.S. Navy

Aviation Officer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Hover over the sea for search and rescue, extract Sailors and Special Forces from a hot landing zone or track and neutralize enemy submarines in defense of your ship. NAVAL FLIGHT OFFICER - In this ...

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All JobsSearch Rescue JobsSearch Rescue Jobs in San Diego, CA

Search Rescue information

See San Diego, CA salary details

$16.9K

$58.2K

$118.6K

How much do search rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for search rescue in San Diego, CA is $58,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,924.00 and $72,361.00 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 San Diego, CA are hiring for Search Rescue jobs?

Cities near San Diego, CA with the most Search Rescue job openings:

Search Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Search Rescue job openings in San Diego, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,174 per year, or $28 per hour.

Special Operations Forces: Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)

U.S. Navy

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

Special Operations Forces: Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)

Are you ready to challenge yourself in a role that demands courage, skill, and a strong sense of duty? As an Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR), you will be part of an elite team trained to execute daring rescues in treacherous conditions, providing lifesaving support wherever it is needed.

What Does an Aviation Rescue Swimmer Do?

As an AIRR, you will serve as a first responder in high-risk situations, ensuring the safety of military personnel and civilians alike. Whether facing turbulent seas, towering waves, or dangerous combat zones, you will be trained to locate and extract individuals in distress.

Your primary responsibilities may include:

-Performing search and rescue (SAR) operations in open waters, swift currents, and hazardous conditions.

-Conducting emergency medical care to stabilize injured personnel during recovery missions.

-Operating from helicopters such as the MH-60 Seahawk to execute air-sea rescues.

-Supporting humanitarian and disaster relief efforts, providing aid in times of crisis.

-Working alongside pilots and aircrew to plan and execute precision rescue missions.

-Undergoing advanced survival training, including underwater egress, free-fall parachuting, and other specialized skills.

Why Choose a Career as an AIRR?

-Elite Training: Gain advanced skills in survival, aviation, and rescue techniques through some of the most rigorous training available.

-Adventure & Impact: Every mission presents a unique challenge—whether assisting during natural disasters or conducting military operations, your work will save lives.

-Career Growth: Leverage your experience to transition into leadership roles, advanced technical fields, or specialized operations within the Navy and beyond.

-Competitive Benefits: Enjoy exceptional healthcare, educational assistance, travel opportunities, and financial incentives.

Who Are We Looking For?

-The ideal Aviation Rescue Swimmer candidate is:

-Physically and mentally resilient, capable of enduring challenging environments.

-A strong swimmer, comfortable in open water and high-stress situations.

-A team player with excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

-Adaptable, ready to take on unpredictable and dynamic missions.

If you are passionate about pushing your limits while making a direct impact on people's lives, this career path could be for you.

What United States Navy employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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