Application Requirements

1. 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

2. 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)

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 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

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