Job Details

Search & Rescue Coordinator

Are you someone who thrives in high-stakes, real-world situations where your work directly impacts lives and community safety? Lane County is seeking a skilled and mission-driven professional to support one of the busiest Search & Rescue (SAR) programs in the state.

In this role, you will serve as a key coordinator and leader within the Lane County Sheriff's Office SAR programhelping ensure our teams are prepared, equipped, and ready to respond when it matters most. This is a fully performing professional-level position that combines technical expertise, operational coordination, and leadership.

You'll play a critical role in planning for and responding to nearly 200 SAR missions annually, working alongside trained volunteers, emergency responders, and partner agencies. From coordinating search operations and supporting emergency medical and technical rescue efforts, to training and mentoring volunteers, your work will directly contribute to safe, timely, and effective rescue outcomes.

This position also supports broader emergency preparedness efforts, including potential collaboration with Emergency Management on initiatives like the Community Wildfire Protection Plan.

We're looking for someone who can bring sound judgment, strong coordination skills, and a calm, solutions-oriented approach in dynamic and often unpredictable environments. If you're passionate about public service, teamwork, and making a tangible difference in your community, this is an opportunity to step into meaningful, impactful work.

Schedule: Typically Monday through Friday; but must be available to work all days and shifts, including but not limited to evenings, weekends and holidays.

*This is a non-represented position*

Qualifications

Training and Experience

• A minimum of four years of education and/or experience in emergency management, emergency medical services, wilderness and/or water search and rescue, investigations, wilderness navigations, or similar; or a combination sufficient to successfully perform the responsibilities of this position.
• Oregon Driver's License upon appointment.
• Firearms Certification within (6) months of appointment.
• Within (1) year of appointment, must possess a Search Management Certification.
• High School diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Wilderness Search & Rescue experience
• Experience with leadership of volunteers in the public safety setting
• EMT or higher level of pre-hospital emergency care provider
• NFPA Rope Rescue Technician or equivalent certification or experience
• Wildland Firefighting certification or experience

Notes:

Employment for Search and Rescue Coordinator is contingent upon successful completion of:

• Pre-Employment background check.
• Interview: All eligible candidates will be contacted by phone to schedule a date and time for an interview. You must pass the interview in order to continue in the hiring process.
• Background Investigation: A thorough background investigation will be conducted which may include a psychological examination, an evaluation with a psychologist, and a medical examination with a drug screen and TB test. You must pass the background investigation in order to continue in the hiring process.

Lane County Sheriff's Office examples of minimum standards and disqualifying factors.

Rejection for employment with our department does not preclude an applicant from applying for another position of employment with Lane County.

Studies have shown that women and BIPOC individuals are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they are able to perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. The county will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.