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Search Rescue Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

City of Lakewood

Lateral Police Officer

Lakewood, WA · On-site

... search warrants. * Pursue fleeing suspects on foot and in vehicles; perform rescue and pursuit operations. * Provide first aid cardiopulmonary resuscitation to injured persons. * Take immediate ...

City of Lakewood (WA)

Lateral Police Officer

Lakewood, WA · On-site

$7K - $9K/mo

... search warrants. Pursue fleeing suspects on foot and in vehicles; perform rescue and pursuit operations. Provide first aid cardiopulmonary resuscitation to injured persons. Take immediate action to ...

City of Lakewood, WA

Lateral Police Officer

Lakewood, WA · On-site

$7K - $9K/mo

... search warrants. * Pursue fleeing suspects on foot and in vehicles; perform rescue and pursuit operations. * Provide first aid cardiopulmonary resuscitation to injured persons. * Take immediate ...

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Tacoma, WA

... 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

Olympia, WA · 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

Aviation Officer

Tacoma, WA

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Aviation Officer

Olympia, WA · 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 ...

US Navy

Oceanography Officer Reserve

Seattle, WA · On-site

Prepare ocean, sea and waterway charts and maps for anything from basic navigation to search-and-rescue efforts * Maintain the military's primary master clock, which provides the most precise time ...

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Search Rescue information

See Tacoma, WA salary details

$16.9K

$58K

$118.1K

How much do search rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for search rescue in Tacoma, WA is $57,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,791.00 and $72,094.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 job pays 400,000 a year without a degree?

In search and rescue roles, such high salaries are uncommon without specialized experience or leadership positions. Typically, high-paying jobs without a degree include certain sales, entrepreneurship, or executive roles, but these are not directly related to search and rescue work. Most rescue positions require training, certifications, and experience rather than high salaries without formal education.
More about Search Rescue jobs
What job categories do people searching Search Rescue jobs in Tacoma, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Search Rescue jobs in Tacoma, WA are:
What cities near Tacoma, WA are hiring for Search Rescue jobs? Cities near Tacoma, WA with the most Search Rescue job openings:
Search Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Search Rescue job openings in Tacoma, WA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,959 per year, or $27.9 per hour.
Do you ever think: "I wish I could do more?"

Do you ever think: "I wish I could do more?"

Tacoma Rescue Mission

Tacoma, WA

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

As part of our Search & Rescue team, you can!

We guide those looking for an opportunity to be on the front-lines, connecting with men, women, and families currently living on the streets.

You can help to rescue them, not only by offering items of warmth and hygiene, but also your voice of encouragement providing hope and care.

Say yes to doing more - click the "I Want to Help" button above.

Watch our video to learn more: Become a Volunteer & Help Change Lives

Apply