Basic Search and Rescue Technician, SRT3

Introduction

The purpose of this position is to perform a range of tasks required to support an ongoing search, rescue, recovery operation or other emergencies.

Duties

• Serves as an emergency responder during search, rescue and recovery operations.
• Assists in search, rescue, and recovery operations utilizing appropriate equipment and techniques.
• Provides emergency medical treatment within the scope of certification and training.
• Adheres to all applicable safety procedures and practices.
• Maintains, and makes minor repairs of all SAR and medical equipment.
• Performs additional tasks or duties as assigned during a mission such as front country trail blocks, on-trail carry outs, equipment transport, and operation of two-wheel or four-wheel drive government vehicles in a variety of non-emergent driving conditions.

Position Knowledge and/or Requirements

• Basic knowledge of standard search, rescue, and recovery methodology and techniques.
• Knowledge of the Incident Command System (ICS) such as would be gain through completion of ICS 100:  Introduction to ICS Roles.
• Knowledge of basic navigation techniques, and the ability to use a map, compass, and/or GPS equipment to determine location.
• Ability to provide basic emergency medical care such as first aid for minor injuries, and CPR.  Ability to assist in patient packaging and transport.
• Knowledge of the procedures for Body Substance Isolation (BSI), and the precautions required to prevent exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
• Knowledge of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and its appropriate use in search, rescue, and recovery operations.
• Knowledge of situation awareness fundamentals including personal equipment, essential rescue equipment, and general all-risk hazards.
• Knowledge of the use and operating characteristics of radios used in SAR operations including mobile units.
• Ability to operate two and four-wheel drive vehicles in a variety of terrain and weather conditions.  A valid state driver’s license is required.

Supervisory Controls

Work direction is provided by a SAR Team Leader or other designated supervisor who makes specific assignments and procedures to be followed.  Routine duties are performed independently, and instructions are provided for unfamiliar or unusual situations.  Continuous supervision or oversight is provided when working in the field.  Completed work is reviewed for compliance with instructions.

Guidelines

Procedures for doing the work have been established and a number of specific guidelines or standard orders are available such as oral instructions, manuals, health and safety codes, and field training.  Some problems encountered may not be specifically covered by guidelines.

The incumbent works in strict adherence to the guidelines, references and procedures.  Deviations or questions are referred to the supervisor or higher graded technician for resolution.

Complexity

The incumbent works in a wide variety of functional areas which require only basic skills, such as a search team member, and assisting with emergency medical evacuations.  Emergency responses often involve action in extremely adverse physical and emotional conditions and the ability to function effectively in sensitive situations.

Work requires application of established practices in areas of assignment.  Limited individual discretion and judgment is expected in emergency situations.

Scope and Effect

The purpose of this position is to assist in implementing incident objectives for a safe operation while effectively performing search, rescue, and recovery operations.  The effectiveness and timeliness of the decision and actions taken impacts the efficiency of assignments and the safety of operations performed.

Personal Contacts

Personal contacts are with local agency search and rescue team personnel or incident management team personnel during the duration of the incident.  The incumbent may also interact with media operations, family members, special interest groups, and others interested and assisting with the incident.

Purpose of Contacts

The purpose of contacts is to obtain briefings and orders, as well as to relay incident information to and from the incident management team and other team members, and to provide general and specific information and assistance.

Physical Demands

Work routinely involves physically rigorous assignments and strenuous activity.  Incumbent must maintain excellent physical condition to carry out responsibilities including the ability to hike and climb in mountainous and desert terrain, accessible only by foot, and in all weather conditions.  These routine and emergency situations often require clear reasoning and decisive action under conditions of extreme mental and physical stress.

Work Environment

Work environment is predominately outdoors in all types of weather and terrain conditions, night or day, for prolonged periods of time.  Travel may be by foot, ski, snowshoe, vehicle, aircraft or boat.  The incumbent is subject to cold, hot, windy, wet, or snowy conditions for several days at a time.  Working elevations range from below sea level to above 8,000 feet.