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Volunteer Rescue Drone Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A strong training culture and commitment to personal development A Drone as a First Responder ... Rescue Squad Workers' Pension Fund Other voluntary insurances and deferred compensation plans The ...

Fire/EMT Trainee

Burlington, NC · On-site

$46K - $48K/yr

A Drone as a First Responder Program * Modern apparatus and state-of-the-art firefighting equipment ... NC Firefighters' and Rescue Squad Workers' Pension Fund * Other voluntary insurances and deferred ...

Volunteer Rescue Drone information

See salary details

$8

$19

$33

How much do volunteer rescue drone jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer rescue drone in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Volunteer Rescue Drone Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Volunteer Rescue Drone Operator, you need a solid understanding of drone piloting, aerial navigation, and basic search and rescue protocols, often supported by a drone pilot certification. Familiarity with UAV flight control systems, mapping software, and image transmission technologies is essential. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe drone operations, accurate data collection, and efficient collaboration during critical rescue missions.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by volunteer rescue drone operators during emergency response missions?

Volunteer rescue drone operators often encounter fast-changing conditions, such as unpredictable weather, limited visibility, and obstacles in disaster zones. They need to coordinate closely with emergency response teams to ensure safe drone deployment and effective data sharing. Managing battery life and maintaining clear communication with ground teams can be challenging during extended search or rescue operations. Additionally, operators must stay up-to-date with regulations and best practices to ensure safe and legal drone usage in critical scenarios.

What are Volunteer Rescue Drones?

Volunteer Rescue Drones are remotely piloted aerial vehicles operated by trained volunteers to assist in search and rescue missions. These drones are equipped with cameras, sensors, and sometimes thermal imaging to help locate missing persons or assess disaster areas. They provide real-time data to rescue teams, enabling faster and safer responses in emergency situations. Volunteer rescue drone operators often work alongside emergency services to enhance coverage and support critical operations.

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

AspectVolunteer Rescue DroneSearch and Rescue Technician
Required CredentialsDrone pilot certification, basic rescue trainingEmergency responder certification, first aid, rescue training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, remote, disaster sitesIndoor and outdoor rescue operations, disaster zones
Employer & IndustryVolunteer organizations, disaster response groupsGovernment agencies, emergency services

Volunteer Rescue Drones primarily operate in outdoor disaster zones using drone technology, requiring pilot certifications and basic rescue skills. Search and Rescue Technicians perform hands-on rescue work in various environments, with more extensive emergency responder certifications. Both roles support disaster response but differ in their methods and required credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rescue Drone jobs? The most popular types of Rescue Drone jobs are:
Infographic showing various Volunteer Rescue Drone job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 20% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Fire/EMT Trainee

$46K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Description Fire/EMT Trainee (Paid Training Provided) Burlington Fire Department We'll help you build a career that matters. The Burlington Fire Department is looking for motivated individuals ready to serve their community, learn lifesaving skills, and grow into a professional Firefighter/EMT-no prior experience required. If you're driven, dependable, and ready to be part of something bigger than yourself, we'll provide the training, support, and path to get you there.

What You'll Do As a Firefighter Trainee, you'll be paid to train and become a certified professional firefighter, one of the most respected and rewarding careers in public service. Upon completion of the Fire Academy, you will become a certified firefighter with a placement in the Burlington Fire Department. You will: Attend Fire Academy and EMT training to earn your NC Firefighter and EMT certification Train alongside experienced firefighters in real-world scenarios and drills Learn how to respond to fires, medical emergencies, rescues, and other critical incidents Build hands-on skills like operating hoses, ladders, and life-saving equipment Develop the physical and mental readiness required for emergency response Maintain and inspect equipment to ensure readiness at all times Once certified, you'll advance to a Firefighter/EMT role within the Burlington Fire Department, responding directly to emergencies and protecting lives and property.

What We're Looking For We're looking for people with the right mindset who can be trained in Fire and EMT functions. Successful candidates are: Committed to serving others in high-pressure situations Team-oriented and dependable Physically and mentally prepared for demanding work Willing to learn, train, and meet certification requirements Professional in their interactions with the public and coworkers We are seeking a diverse workforce of men and women to serve the Burlington community. Minimum Requirements At least 18 years old High school diploma or GED Valid North Carolina driver's license Ability to obtain a NC Class B license during training No prior firefighter or EMT certification required-we'll train you.

Pay & Career Path Starting pay: $46,125 - $48,460 Be paid to train through Fire & EMT Academy at no cost to the employee Promotion to Firefighter/EMT upon successful certification with starting pay of $46,125 6 and 12 months increases for acceptable performance $48,460 after 12 months Educational pay incentives ranging from 2.5% - 5% pay for: 1 year Fire Diploma, Fire Management Certificate, Associate's and Bachelor's Degree for Fire and Non-Fire educational achievements. The Burlington Fire Department offers 33 different stipends for various certifications to supplement the annual pay. Burlington Fire Department Pay Plan outlines 4-5% raises annually until the mid-point of the range

Promotional opportunities exist throughout the course of a career in the Burlington Fire Service. The Burlington Fire Department has: A strong training culture and commitment to personal development A Drone as a First Responder Program Modern apparatus and state-of-the-art firefighting equipment designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and operational effectiveness Community engagement opportunities Generous Benefit Package The City of Burlington has a robust benefit package that takes care of you now and in the future. A NEW and improved pay plan with developmental increases Free medical health insurance for the employee Employee Occupational Health Clinic for employees and covered dependents Health, Dental and annual eye exam coverage Paid Parental Leave Local Governmental Employees' Retirement System 401k - 5% city contribution- no match required Generous accruals of paid time off for Vacation, Sick and Holiday hours Longevity Pay when eligible Milestone Leave Program- Employees earn 40 hours of leave at 8, 15 and 25 years City Provided Life Insurance Tuition reimbursement Education incentive Language incentive Ability to transfer NC local government earned sick leave Voluntary Flexible Spending Account election Voluntary Short-Term Disability, Accident and Cancer Insurance elections Sick to service time conversion for LGERS retirement NC Firefighters' and Rescue Squad Workers' Pension Fund Other voluntary insurances and deferred compensation plans The Work This is a physically demanding, high-impact role.

You'll: Lift heavy equipment (100+ lbs at times) Work in extreme conditions (heat, cold, smoke, confined spaces) As a Fire/EMT Trainee the schedule is Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. When going on shift as a Firefighter the schedule is a 24/48 work schedule. Respond to emergencies in all weather conditions Operate in environments that require focus, resilience, and teamwork This position is classified as weather essential personnel.

Why Burlington Fire. At Burlington Fire Department, you're not just getting a job-you're building a career with purpose. Our department is built on teamwork, training, and a commitment to keeping our community safe through emergency response, risk reduction, and professional service.

Ready to step up. Apply today and start your journey to becoming a Firefighter/EMT Trainee.