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 1800 (6:00 PM).
Available Dates (all virtual):
- October 7 & 22
- November 11 & 26
- December 17
Join virtually at: Google Meet Link
Need an alternative time? Contact recruitment@pnwsar.org
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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
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