Search and Rescue EMT Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an increasingly unpredictable world, the importance of Search and Rescue Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) has never been greater.

As emergencies and disasters evolve, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, locate, and provide crucial medical help when lives hang in the balance.

But what exactly does a Search and Rescue EMT do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the vital role of Search and Rescue EMTs,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Search and Rescue EMT job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Search and Rescue EMT Duties and Responsibilities

Search and Rescue Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) play a critical role in emergency situations where individuals are in need of immediate medical attention in hard-to-reach locations or during disasters.

They are responsible for providing first aid treatment or life support care to sick or injured patients in these emergency situations.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Responding to emergency calls and providing immediate care to the critically ill and injured.
• Transporting patients to medical facilities while ensuring their stable condition.
• Assessing the nature and extent of injuries or illnesses to establish and prioritize medical procedures.
• Administering first aid treatment or life support care to sick or injured patients.
• Performing emergency diagnostic and treatment procedures, such as stomach suction, airway management or heart monitoring, during the rescue process.
• Coordinating with professional medical personnel at emergency treatment facilities to obtain patients’ histories, symptoms, or necessary treatment.
• Documenting patient care, condition and progress to facilitate the continuity of care and for legal purposes.
• Performing maintenance checks on medical equipment and vehicles to ensure they are ready and available for emergency situations.
• Assisting in the extraction of victims from the location of the accident or disaster to a safer place or medical facility.

 

Search and Rescue EMT Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a committed and highly skilled Search and Rescue Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) to join our team.

The role involves providing crucial emergency medical care and assistance in various challenging environments, ranging from urban areas to remote wilderness locations.

The successful candidate will possess a strong blend of medical knowledge, technical ability, survival skills, and the ability to work well under pressure.

The primary goal of the Search and Rescue EMT is to ensure the safety, survival, and recovery of individuals in distress.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide immediate medical care to the injured or ill in emergency situations
• Assist in the search and rescue operations in different environments
• Work closely with other emergency service teams during rescue operations
• Transport patients safely to medical facilities
• Maintain all medical and rescue equipment
• Participate in regular training and drills
• Document and report the details of rescue operations and patient care
• Adhere to established emergency protocols and procedures
• Assist in educating the public on emergency preparedness

 

Qualifications

• State-certified EMT or Paramedic
• Experience in search and rescue operations is preferred
• Strong swimming skills and comfortability with heights
• Ability to work in difficult weather conditions and challenging terrains
• Excellent physical condition
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Knowledge of emergency medical procedures and use of equipment
• Wilderness survival skills are an advantage

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Search and Rescue EMT
• Work Environment: Outdoor settings with potential exposure to extreme weather conditions. Work may involve physical risks and stressful situations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Search and Rescue Coordinator or Emergency Services Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Search and Rescue EMT Do?

Search and Rescue EMTs, or Emergency Medical Technicians, specialize in providing medical care in emergency situations, often in challenging and remote environments.

They are integral members of Search and Rescue (SAR) teams, which respond to emergencies in locations that are hard to reach, such as mountains, forests, or disaster-stricken areas.

They often work with teams of other trained professionals, including paramedics, firefighters, law enforcement officers, and volunteers, to find and rescue individuals in distress.

They are responsible for providing immediate medical care to victims on the scene and during transport to medical facilities.

Their duties include assessing the condition of patients, administering emergency medical care such as CPR, wound dressing, splinting fractures, and more.

They are also trained to use special equipment like defibrillators and perform procedures like intubation.

Search and Rescue EMTs have the knowledge and skills to navigate difficult terrain, operate SAR equipment, and use survival techniques to keep themselves and others safe.

They also help with the planning and coordination of rescue missions.

They are often required to make rapid, critical decisions under pressure, in harsh weather conditions, and during both day and night.

Their work requires physical stamina, resilience, and the ability to stay calm and focused in highly stressful and often traumatic situations.

Moreover, they are responsible for documenting the medical care they provide and communicating patients’ medical conditions and treatment to the hospital staff.

They also participate in debriefings and incident reviews to learn from each mission and continuously improve their response.

 

Search and Rescue EMT Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Search and Rescue EMT should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, including:

• Proficiency in medical skills, including Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
• Physically fit and capable of performing strenuous activities under extreme conditions.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to adapt to unexpected situations and complex emergencies.
• Strong communication skills to clearly and effectively coordinate with team members and communicate with victims and their families.
• Ability to work well under pressure and remain calm in stressful situations.
• Proficient navigation and survival skills, particularly in various types of terrain and climates.
• Experience with search and rescue equipment and techniques, such as ropes, harnesses, and stretchers.
• Familiarity with aviation and maritime rescue operations.
• Strong team player with the ability to collaborate effectively with others in high-stress scenarios.
• Must be certified as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic.

 

Search and Rescue EMT Experience Requirements

Search and Rescue Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) often start their journey with EMT-Basic training and certification, which may take up to 6 months.

This includes a blend of in-class theory, practical skills, and clinical experience in an ambulance or hospital setting.

To specialize in search and rescue operations, individuals typically gain experience as a ground search and rescue team member or other related roles.

This often includes training and experience in wilderness rescue, technical rescue, water rescue, or other relevant areas.

To become more competitive candidates, many Search and Rescue EMTs gain additional certifications like Wilderness EMT or Paramedic.

These certifications require significant practical experience in treating patients in emergency situations, especially in remote and challenging environments.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience in search and rescue operations and EMT roles are often considered highly experienced.

They may have advanced skills in managing complex rescue missions, providing advanced medical care, or leading teams in high-stress environments.

Those with more than 5 years of experience and leadership in search and rescue operations could potentially progress into roles such as Search and Rescue Operations Manager, Incident Commander, or other supervisory positions.

This often requires a demonstrated history of successful mission coordination, team management, and advanced problem-solving skills under high-stress, high-stakes situations.

 

Search and Rescue EMT Education and Training Requirements

To become a Search and Rescue (SAR) Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), one must first complete a high school diploma or its equivalent.

The next step involves obtaining EMT basic certification, which includes a 120 to 150-hour training course and passing a national examination.

This program trains individuals to provide emergency medical care and is widely available through community colleges and technical schools.

The certification process for SAR EMTs is more specialized.

Many SAR teams provide on-the-job training, but aspirants can also choose to complete SAR training programs that are approved by the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR).

Additionally, to operate in wilderness settings, SAR EMTs may need to take wilderness EMT courses.

These courses provide training on dealing with medical emergencies when advanced medical facilities are not readily accessible.

Advanced EMT or Paramedic training is also beneficial for those wanting to work in this field, involving more in-depth medical training and typically requiring a two-year associate degree.

Furthermore, SAR EMTs must maintain their certification, which involves continuing education and, in some cases, retesting.

Regular physical fitness assessments may also be required due to the physically demanding nature of the work.

Optional certifications in swift water rescue, mountain rescue, cave rescue, or helicopter rescue might be helpful depending on the specific role or region in which the SAR EMT operates.

Experience and training in outdoor survival, navigation, and leadership are also highly valued in this role.

 

Search and Rescue EMT Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Search and Rescue EMT is approximately $39,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary significantly depending on the individual’s level of experience, qualifications, geographical location, and the specific organization they work for.

Additional compensation may also come in the form of benefits, overtime, and hazard pay.

 

Search and Rescue EMT Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Search and Rescue EMT need?

Search and Rescue EMTs need to have a high level of physical fitness and endurance as they may have to work in harsh and demanding environments.

They should possess strong problem-solving and decision-making skills to navigate difficult situations and make life-saving choices.

They also need excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with victims and other team members effectively.

 

Do Search and Rescue EMTs need a degree?

While a degree is not mandatory, having one in a related field such as emergency medical services, paramedicine, or nursing can be advantageous.

All Search and Rescue EMTs must, however, have certification from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) or a state equivalent.

 

What should you look for in a Search and Rescue EMT resume?

You should look for demonstrated experience in emergency medical services and possibly in search and rescue operations.

Also important is certification as an EMT or paramedic.

Additional skills in wilderness rescue, scuba diving, rock climbing or other related skills may also be useful.

Check for ongoing professional development or additional certifications, such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).

 

What qualities make a good Search and Rescue EMT?

A good Search and Rescue EMT is calm and composed under pressure, able to make critical decisions quickly.

They have the physical and mental stamina to work in challenging and unpredictable environments.

They must also be compassionate and empathetic, with strong communication skills to provide support and reassurance to victims and their families.

 

Is it difficult to hire Search and Rescue EMTs?

Hiring for Search and Rescue EMTs can be challenging due to the specific skill set and physical and mental demands of the role.

It’s essential to find individuals with the right qualifications, experience, and aptitude for working in high-stress, often remote environments.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on the true essence of being a Search and Rescue EMT.

Guess what?

It’s not just about first aid and rescue techniques.

It’s about saving lives, one rescue mission at a time.

With our comprehensive Search and Rescue EMT job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to step up.

But why halt your journey here?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your tool for creating detailed job postings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each rescue mission contributes to a larger purpose.

Let’s save lives. Together.

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