PNWSAR 2026 Application Period Now Open

Click here to apply

Application Requirements

  1. 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

  2. Attend a Team Meeting by January 13th

    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)

  3. Submit Application Fee ($55)

    Fee is refundable if not selected and includes one team shirt upon becoming operational

  4. Complete FEMA Courses by January 13th

    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)

2026 Prospect Schedule

  • March 7-8: Initial Training (Mandatory)
  • March 21: Full Team Field Training
  • April 18: Prospect Field Training
  • April 19: Full Team Field Training
  • May 16: Full Team Field Training
  • May 30: Qualification Day (Mandatory)

2026 Trainee Schedule

  • June 13: Trainee Field Training
  • June 14: Full Team Field Training
  • July 18: Full Team Field Training
  • August 15: Full Team Field Training
  • September 19: Trainee Field Training
  • September 20: Full Team Field Training
  • October 17: Full Team Field Training
  • November 14: SAR Olympics
Note: Cannot miss more than 2 consecutive months of trainings to remain operational
Required Personal Equipment