Application Schedule

• • Applications will be used for our initial screening process.

  • If it looks like you're a good fit, applicants selected to move forward will receive additional information about the next steps.

• • Attendance at one of these is a required first step and there will be no additional events outside the ones we post.

  • These events are held in the greater Bay Area, and those selected to move forward after attending will receive information for the next steps.

• Applicants are strongly encouraged  to take a practice hike on the Fitness qualification hike course  so there are no surprises. If you cannot pass the Fitness Qualification hike, you will not become a candidate.

• Use this link for the page that describes the Fitness Qualification hike requirement and directions to our qualification course.

• Always good practice to tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back!

Note: A sign-up link and more details will be provided via email to those who passed the Fitness Qualification

• • Required for those interested in applying to the team.

  • Step into the boots of a SAR volunteer during a mock mission. Hike, navigate, and learn field basics alongside team members.

  • Understand the physical and mental demands of real search operations. Preview the teamwork, gear, and grit SAR requires.

  • Find out what we look for in candidates -- and whether SAR is a good fit for you.

Note: You must attend the Mock Search and be invited to attend a Candidate Interview

• • Applicants receive a designated interview time slot.

  • The final step is a 30 minute interview with a panel of our recruitment team.

  • As we have more interest than space in our candidate class, unfortunately we can't take everyone. You will receive notice after the interviews on whether you have been accepted into the new candidate class.

Acceptance as a Candidate is contingent on passing the background check.

An extensive background check is conducted with DOJ, FBI and DMV databases. Any felony conviction is an immediate disqualification, without appeal. Any DUIs and other background check anomalies will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Please do not begin the application process if you have a felony in your history.  Background checks to be administered after an applicant receives an acceptance offer and it is contingent on passing the background check.

Why we require a background check

CALSAR operates at the direction for California Office of Emergency Services (OES) Law Enforcement division, as such we are part of Law Enforcement. All applicants need a background check (even if you're done before for some other organization or reason.) 

• Onboarding the new candidate class.

• Applicants that pass the background check are given the oath as a California Disaster Service Worker.