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Wilderness Rescue Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger Protection

Anchorage, AK · On-site +1

$86K - $112K/yr

Patrols include using various transportation methods in the wilderness such as small watercraftsand ski patrols. * Participates in emergency incidents which include search and rescue operations ...

New

Wilderness Emergency Medical Treatment (WEMT) or higher * Search and Rescue supervision experiencerequired. Denali level or other big mountain experience * NASAR Managing the Lost Person Incident ...

Emergency Response: Assist in search and rescue efforts or respond to environmental hazards if ... Housing and food provided * Opportunity to work in Alaska's beautiful wilderness Working ...

Emergency Response: Assist in search and rescue efforts or respond to environmental hazards if ... Opportunity to work in Alaskas beautiful wilderness Working Environment and Physical Demands The ...

Emergency Response: Assist in search and rescue efforts or respond to environmental hazards if ... Housing and food provided * Opportunity to work in Alaska's beautiful wilderness Working ...

Wilderness Rescue information

See Alaska salary details

$55.5K

$98.3K

$142.7K

How much do wilderness rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for wilderness rescue in Alaska is $98,324.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,100.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Wilderness Rescue position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wilderness Rescue professional, a strong background in emergency medical care, navigation, survival skills, and physical fitness is typically required, often supported by certifications such as Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or EMT. Familiarity with technical rescue equipment, GPS devices, and radio communication systems is essential for safe and efficient operations. Exceptional teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities ensure effective response in challenging, remote environments where timely and coordinated action can save lives.

What holistic job makes the most money?

In the context of wilderness rescue, the highest-paying roles are often specialized emergency responders such as paramedics or search and rescue team leaders, especially those with advanced certifications and extensive experience. These positions typically require specialized training, certifications, and sometimes advanced degrees, and they offer higher compensation due to the skill level and risk involved.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Wilderness rescue jobs typically do not pay $4,000 a week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying roles in this field are rare and usually require extensive training, certifications like CPR or wilderness first aid, and experience in outdoor or emergency response environments. Most wilderness rescue positions offer hourly wages or salaries significantly below that threshold without advanced qualifications.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Wilderness rescue jobs typically do not pay $500,000 annually; high-paying roles in this field are usually in management, consulting, or specialized training, but salaries rarely reach that level. Most top earners in related outdoor or emergency services earn significantly less, often supplemented by additional roles or private consulting. Achieving such high income generally requires advanced certifications, extensive experience, or leadership positions in related industries.

What is a Wilderness Rescue job?

A Wilderness Rescue job involves locating, assisting, and evacuating individuals who are lost, injured, or in distress in remote or rugged outdoor environments. Rescuers use specialized skills in navigation, first aid, survival techniques, and sometimes technical rope rescue to ensure safety. They often work with emergency services, search and rescue teams, or park agencies to respond quickly to emergencies.

How much do wilderness first responders get paid?

Wilderness first responders typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the organization. Salaries can vary based on whether the role is part-time, seasonal, or volunteer, and additional certifications like CPR or advanced rescue training can influence pay rates.

What are some common challenges faced by Wilderness Rescue professionals in the field?

Wilderness Rescue professionals often encounter unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to resources, which can make rescue operations physically and mentally demanding. Team members must be prepared to adapt quickly to changing conditions and to execute complex rescues in remote areas where communication and logistics may be complicated. Collaboration with other agencies, such as park services or local emergency responders, is often required, and clear team coordination is crucial for safety and success. Candidates should be ready for irregular hours and the need to respond at a moment’s notice, making flexibility and resilience essential traits for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Wilderness Rescue jobs in Alaska? For Wilderness Rescue jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Wilderness Rescue jobs in Alaska look for? The top searched job categories for Wilderness Rescue jobs in Alaska are:
Infographic showing various Wilderness Rescue job openings in Alaska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $98,324 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Girdwood Fire & Rescue is seeking skilled and motivated Advanced Life Support Providers (Paramedics or AEMT-level) to join our dedicated team serving the Girdwood Valley and surrounding areas. Our providers deliver high-quality prehospital care in one of Alaska's most dynamic response environments, where trauma, environmental emergencies, and long transport times demand strong clinical judgment, teamwork, and adaptability.

About the Role

As an ALS provider with Girdwood Fire & Rescue, you'll operate in both urban interface and remote wilderness settings, providing critical care in challenging terrain and variable weather conditions. You'll work closely with fellow firefighters, EMTs, and partner agencies to stabilize and transport patients-often across extended distances requiring advanced decision-making and endurance.

Responsibilities

  • Deliver advanced prehospital medical care, including trauma management and advanced airway interventions.
  • Participate in fire and rescue operations as needed, including technical and wilderness rescue and vehicle extrication.
  • Maintain readiness of ambulances and equipment; ensure all supplies are stocked and functional.
  • Collaborate with medical director, hospital staff, dispatch, and adjacent EMS agencies to ensure seamless continuum of care.
  • Participate in ongoing training, quality improvement and skill development to maintain clinical excellence and operational safety.

Qualifications

  • Current State of Alaska Paramedic or AEMT certification (or ability to obtain prior to hire).
  • Current ACLS, PALS, and BLS certifications (PHTLS or ITLS preferred).
  • Valid Alaska driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Strong clinical skills, adaptability, and the ability to perform under pressure in remote settings.
  • Experience in wilderness or rural EMS environments strongly preferred

Why Girdwood Fire & Rescue

  • Operate in a unique, high-acuity service area where mountain rescue, trauma response, and extended transports are part of daily operations.
  • Work alongside a passionate, close-knit team committed to professional growth, community service, and operational excellence.
  • Comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for training.