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Wilderness Search Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mounted Patrol Volunteer

Brainerd, MN ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Search and Rescue Support: Assist law enforcement agencies in search and rescue operations in wilderness areas or other locations accessible by horseback. Crime Prevention: Serve as extra eyes and ...

Mounted Patrol Volunteer

Brainerd, MN ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Search and Rescue Support : Assist law enforcement agencies in search and rescue operations in wilderness areas or other locations accessible by horseback. * Crime Prevention : Serve as extra eyes ...

FirefighterEMT

Newnan, GA ยท On-site

$18.24/hr

Performs and participates in technical rescues including stabilizing, extrication, high angle, confined space, trench rescue, wilderness rescue, search and rescue, water and boat rescue and hazardous ...

FirefighterParamedic

Newnan, GA ยท On-site

$20.50/hr

Performs and participates in technical rescues including stabilizing, extrication, high angle, confined space, trench rescue, wilderness rescue, search and rescue, water and boat rescue and hazardous ...

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 ...

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Wilderness Search Rescue information

See salary details

$15K

$51.1K

$103K

How much do wilderness search rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for wilderness search rescue in the United States is $51,072.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,500.00 and $61,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Wilderness Search and Rescue job?

A Wilderness Search and Rescue (WiSAR) job involves locating and assisting people who are lost, injured, or in distress in remote or rugged environments. Rescuers work in diverse terrains such as mountains, forests, and deserts, often in extreme weather conditions. They use skills like navigation, first aid, rope rescue, and survival techniques to ensure the safety of those in need. Many SAR teams operate on a volunteer basis, though some professionals work with organizations like park services or emergency agencies.

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

To thrive as a Wilderness Search Rescue professional, you need expertise in land navigation, first aid, survival skills, and physical fitness, often backed by relevant certifications such as Wilderness First Responder or Search and Rescue (SAR) Technician. Familiarity with GPS devices, two-way radios, mapping software, and rescue equipment is typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills are crucial for effective collaboration and decision-making in high-stress scenarios. These competencies enable responders to operate safely and efficiently during complex wilderness emergencies, ensuring the best possible outcomes for lost or injured individuals.

What is a typical work environment like for Wilderness Search Rescue professionals?

Wilderness Search Rescue professionals often work in challenging outdoor environments, including forests, mountains, deserts, and remote areas, sometimes in adverse weather conditions or during nighttime. Teams typically consist of SAR specialists who collaborate closely with local authorities, emergency medical personnel, and sometimes volunteers, requiring both independent action and collective effort. Work hours can be unpredictable due to the urgent and on-call nature of search missions. This role demands adaptability, resilience, and a strong commitment to public safety, making every operation unique and impactful. If you value teamwork and adventure, this environment can be both demanding and deeply rewarding.
What cities are hiring for Wilderness Search Rescue jobs? Cities with the most Wilderness Search Rescue job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wilderness Search Rescue jobs? The most popular types of Wilderness Search Rescue jobs are:
What states have the most Wilderness Search Rescue jobs? States with the most job openings for Wilderness Search Rescue jobs include:
Infographic showing various Wilderness Search Rescue job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Temporary. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,072 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

$23 - $27/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Position Summary: Under supervision of the fire captain, the engineer operates all fire apparatus and equipment; transports crew to the emergency scene; responds to fires, medical, rescue, hazardous material and other emergency and non-emergency situations and takes appropriate action to protect life, property and the environment; performs various staff support assignments in addition to normal emergency response activities; performs related work as assigned.
Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Safely drives fire apparatus to the scene of an emergency and other routine events, positions apparatus appropriately, and places apparatus in operation as directed by fire supervisory staff.
2. Operates ladder truck and engines during emergency and routine events by correctly positioning ladder or engine, laying hose, calculating and monitoring correct hydraulic requirements, directs engine hook-up and sets up and adjusts controls to ensure proper water flow, operates rescue and other specialized apparatus as may be required.
3. Responds to calls for medical aid, including traffic collisions and rescue events. Provides pre-hospital care at the EMT- I level, including examining patients and monitoring vital signs, use of AED defibrillator, and takes other basic and advanced first aid and life support actions as appropriate; communicates with hospital and/or health care professionals in person or by radio; completes required reports. Restocks supplies and maintains emergency vehicles and equipment in proper working condition.
4. Maintains all current EMT certifications according to Tuolumne County EMS protocol.
5. Responds to and safely performs assigned duties on variety of emergency events including, but not limited to, structure fires, wild land fires, vehicle accidents, medical aids, hazardous materials release, confined space rescue, trench rescue, low and high angle rescue, swift water rescue, and wilderness search and rescue, etc.
6. Operates various auxiliary equipment, such as lights and power during night-time emergency response. Sets up ladder, mounted and other water monitors. Uses hand and power tools to obtain entry to buildings, frees trapped accident victims, shuts off utilities, and provides ventilation.
7. Participates in clean-up, salvage and overhaul operations; cleans, services and ensures operational readiness of fire vehicles, apparatus, hoses and equipment; and assists with the maintenance of station and facilities.
8. Participates in various staff support assignments including but not limited to: fire prevention, inspection of commercial and residential property, training and skills improvement.
Maintenance of inventory records; scheduled inspections of department equipment and apparatus; and fire investigations.
9. Responds to hazardous materials emergencies at the First Responder Operational level.
10. Works with the community in a variety of educational, public relations and service programs; may provide CPR training classes as assigned.
11. Consistently demonstrates the highest level of customer service during emergency and routine situations.
12. Serves as acting captain on a relief basis when certified and licensed to do so; may direct the work of others.
13. Performs all firefighting duties and responsibilities at the Firefighter I Level or higher.
14. Prepares various computerized fire and medical incident reports.
15. Performs all duties and responsibilities in a safe and responsible manner.
16. Attend supervisor training within six months of promotion or hire.
  1. Possess High School Diploma or GED.
  2. Must possess a valid California Class B Commercial driver's license with passenger transportation endorsement, tank endorsement and air brake endorsement. Must maintain current vehicle insurance requirements.
  3. Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
  4. Must possess Engine Boss (ENGB) or higher qualifications.
  5. Must have completed training in Engine Specified Engine Academy or Practicum.
  6. Must be able to work shifts if necessary.
  7. Must possess valid EMT medical certificate, CPR and AED certifications
  8. Must undergo pre-employment and annual physical exam.
  9. Must be able to pass an arduous physical fitness requirement.
  10. Organized, self motivated, and able to perform tasks independently.
  11. Able to interact professionally with people with a wide variety of backgrounds.
  12. Ability to follow detailed instructions in emergency situations.

Physical Requirements:
This position is deemed a level 5 and requires walking, standing, and sitting for prolonged periods of time; climbing stairs, ladders, scaffolding, ramps, etc.; stooping, kneeling, crouching, balancing, crawling and reaching; pushing, pulling and lifting in excess of 100 pounds; raising objects overhead; manual dexterity; hearing, talking and good verbal and written communication skills; repetitive motions of the wrists, hands, and fingers; subject to outside environmental conditions of heat and cold; walking on uneven ground; operation of heavy-weight equipment.
Indian Preference:
Preference in filling vacancies shall be given first to qualified Tuolumne Me-Wuk Community Council Members and then to enrolled Native Americans of any federally recognized tribe. Documentation for claiming preference must be provided with the application for consideration. Other than the above, the Tuolumne Me-Wuk Tribe is an equal opportunity employer.
Pre-employment Requirements:
Employment is contingent on pre-employment background and drug test results.