Search and Rescue

Search & Rescue members are trained in many aspects of rescuing.

NPS / Hannah Schwalbe

 

Joshua Tree National Park Search & Rescue (JOSAR) was established in the 1990s to respond to emergencies, such as climber falls, missing hikers, and overdue parties. Due to the complexity and frequency of incidents, members are required to be highly trained and skilled in a variety of functions, including search, technical, and tracking. In addition, JOSAR has a continuing need for volunteers to perform support functions such as Incident Management, Family Liaison, Fundraising, and Logistics. Joshua Tree National Park Search & Rescue is comprised of highly trained staff and volunteers who are on call around the clock and ready to respond to a variety of incidents.

Search & Rescue Team Benefits

• Annual and monthly trainings in Tracking, Search, and Technical
• Annual Basic Search & Rescue Training
• Emergency Medical Trainings
• Operational Leadership Training
• Eligibility for National Park Service Volunteer Benefit Program

Volunteer Requirements

As a member of the team, individuals are expected to respond to emergencies when requested. In addition, members are expected to regularly attend training. There are approximately 3 training events per month. Members are not required to attend all trainings but should attend at least one training per month. Accommodations can be made if volunteers have specific work requirements. Please send any specific questions about membership requirements to [e-mail]

Skills

Field members of JOSAR should have a high level of physical fitness and comfort in desert environments. JOSAR members routinely perform difficult physical labor in extreme conditions. Skills such as rock climbing, backcountry navigation, backpacking, desert survival, emergency medicine, and tracking are valuable, but not required to apply. Previous Search and Rescue experience is valuable but not required.

Support positions don’t necessarily require the same level of physical fitness. Skills valuable for support members include logistics, finance, GIS/cartography, mechanical and technological skills for equipment maintenance, and skills related to supporting friends and family of subjects during and after an emergency.

How to Apply

Please apply through advertisements posted on the volunteer.gov website. Volunteer positions will have the title "JOSAR (Joshua Tree Search and Rescue) Technician". If no volunteer positions are advertised on volunteer.gov, check back later. All volunteer opportunities will be advertised on volunteer.gov.

Questions

If you have any additional questions, please email [e-mail].