Pacific Northwest Search and Rescue
Serving Oregon's Region 2 and neighboring communities since 1993
We're gearing up for our next application period.
The next application period will open in October. We encourage you to attend our monthly meetings to prepare for the next recruitment cycle.
Application Requirements
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Attend an Information Session
Sessions provide details about OSSA certification, time commitments, costs, and requirements. All sessions begin at 1900 (7:00 PM).
Available Dates (all virtual):
- July 21
- September 22
- October 13, 23
- November 10, 20
- December 8, 18
Join virtually at: Google Meet Link
Need an alternative time? Contact recruitment@pnwsar.org -
Attend a Team Meeting by January 14th
Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday monthly, 1900-2100 (7-9 PM)
Location: 10776 SE Highway 212, 97015 (Colonial Business Center)Virtual option available on PNWSAR.org/meetings (in-person recommended)
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Submit Application Fee ($55)
Fee is refundable if not selected and includes one team shirt upon becoming operational
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Complete FEMA Courses by January 14th
- IS-100.C: Introduction to Incident Command System
- IS-200.C: ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents
- IS-700.B: National Incident Management System (NIMS)
Send certificates to recruitment@pnwsar.org
Important Note: Failure to complete any requirement by the deadline will result in removal from the applicant pool.
What to Know Before Applying
- Must be 18 or older
- 100% volunteer organization (no compensation)
- Missions occur 24/7 in all weather conditions
- We handle various situations: missing hikers, hunters, children, Alzheimer's patients, evidence searches
- Membership requires meeting state and team requirements within specified timeframes
Training Schedule Overview
Monthly Meetings
- Prospects/Trainees: 1800-1900 (March - October)
- Full Team: 1900-2100 (January - November)
2025 Prospect Schedule
- March 1-2: Initial Training (Mandatory)
- March 15: Medical Training
- April 12: Navigation, Fire & Shelter
- April 13: Mock Mission
- May 10: Risk Management
- May 31: Qualification Day (Mandatory)
2025 Trainee Schedule
- June 21: Litter Scenarios
- June 22: Medical Review
- July 26: Navigation
- August 17: Mock Mission
- September 20: Night Navigation
- October 18: Crime Scene Protocols
- October 19: Certifications
- November 15: SAR Olympics
Note: Cannot miss more than 2 consecutive months of trainings to remain operational
Required Personal Equipment