Application & Selection Process
The fires, floods and media coverage of high profile searches over the last few years has generated a lot of interest in SAR in general and our Team specifically. Joining CALSAR is a selective process, our training resources and venues have limits so unfortunately we can’t accept everyone that is interested in joining.
2023-24 Applicant Milestone Schedule
Info Event - attend only 1 May 6, 2023 10AM Orinda Community Center OR
Info Event - attend only 1 May 6, 2023 12PM Orinda Community Center
Intro to Nav Class - attend only 1 May 13, 2023 SportsBasement, SF Presidio OR
Intro to Nav Class - attend only 1 May 20, 2023 SportsBasement, San Ramon
Fitness Qualification June 3, 2023 Creekside Dr, San Rafael
Interviews June 10, 2023 Orinda Community Center
Background Checks June 11, 2023 Paperwork & LiveScan process starts
DSW Oath & Orientation June 17, 2023 Orinda Community Center
For more detailed information, please see the links in the sections below
Application and Selection Process
Attendance at one of these is a required first step.
These 1 1/2 hour events including Q&A are held in May in the greater Bay Area.
Times and locations are published in March and can be found here.
This is our opportunity to get to know each other while having some fun learning a few basics of a critical SAR skill.
We are a 501(c) non profit organization so we ask for a nominal donation to cover material costs.
Attendees of the Intro Nav class will receive an online application after completing the class.
Fitness Qualification
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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.
Application and Interview
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Applicants complete an on line application and schedule their interview.
The final step is a 20-30 minute interview before a panel of 3-5 current members.
Applicant Notification
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Applicants will be notified within ~48 hours of acceptance as a Candidate with Orientation Day details and a background check.
Acceptance as a Candidate is contingent on passing the background check.
Applicant Background Checks
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An extensive background check is conducted with DOJ, FBI and DMV databases. Any felony conviction is an immediate disqualification, without appeal. Please do not begin the application process if you have a felony in your history. Background checks are scheduled with our vendor after an applicant receives an acceptance offer and before the DSW oath is administered.
DSW Oath
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Applicants that pass the background check are given the oath as a California Disaster Service Worker.