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How much do air rescue swimmer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for air rescue swimmer in the United States is $17.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Rescue Swimmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Air Rescue Swimmer, you need exceptional swimming ability, physical fitness, survival training, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Mastery of rescue equipment, SAR (Search and Rescue) gear, and completion of specialized military or Coast Guard training programs are essential. Outstanding teamwork, courage under pressure, and strong communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills are critical to ensure rapid, effective life-saving responses in dangerous and unpredictable environments.

What are some common challenges Air Rescue Swimmers face during rescue missions?

Air Rescue Swimmers often operate in highly unpredictable and hazardous environments, such as rough seas, strong currents, and adverse weather conditions. They must remain calm under pressure while making split-second decisions to ensure both their safety and the safety of those they are rescuing. Additionally, physical stamina and mental resilience are crucial, as missions can be physically demanding and emotionally intense. Teamwork, clear communication, and adaptability are essential to overcome these challenges and successfully complete each mission.

What are Air Rescue Swimmers?

Air Rescue Swimmers are specially trained military personnel responsible for conducting search and rescue missions in maritime and aviation environments. They are deployed from helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft to assist people in distress at sea, often in challenging and dangerous conditions. Their duties include rescuing survivors, providing emergency medical care, and supporting other rescue operations. Air Rescue Swimmers undergo rigorous physical and technical training to ensure they are prepared for a wide range of emergency scenarios.

How to become an aviation rescue swimmer?

To become an aviation rescue swimmer, candidates typically need to meet age, fitness, and swimming proficiency requirements, complete basic military or rescue training, and obtain certifications such as CPR and first aid. Specialized training in water survival, rescue techniques, and helicopter operations is also required, often provided by the military or rescue organizations.

What is the difference between Air Rescue Swimmer vs Coast Guard Rescue Diver?

AspectAir Rescue SwimmerCoast Guard Rescue Diver
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Rescue Swimmer CertificationOpen Water Diver, Rescue Diver Certification
Work EnvironmentAircraft, open water, rescue missionsUnderwater, shoreline, rescue operations
Employer & IndustryU.S. Coast Guard, military, emergency servicesU.S. Coast Guard, civilian rescue teams

While both roles involve water rescue skills, the Air Rescue Swimmer specializes in aerial rescue operations, often working from helicopters and performing high-risk rescues in open water. The Coast Guard Rescue Diver focuses on underwater rescue and shoreline operations, with a strong emphasis on diving skills. Both positions require certifications in water safety and rescue techniques, but the environments and equipment used differ significantly.

More about Air Rescue Swimmer jobs
What job categories do people searching Air Rescue Swimmer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Air Rescue Swimmer jobs are:
Air Rescue Swimmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Rescue Swimmer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 5% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,774 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Special Operations Forces: Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)

Special Operations Forces: Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)

U.S. Navy

Scottsdale, AZ

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

Special Operations Forces: Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)

Are you ready to challenge yourself in a role that demands courage, skill, and a strong sense of duty? As an Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR), you will be part of an elite team trained to execute daring rescues in treacherous conditions, providing lifesaving support wherever it is needed.

What Does an Aviation Rescue Swimmer Do?

As an AIRR, you will serve as a first responder in high-risk situations, ensuring the safety of military personnel and civilians alike. Whether facing turbulent seas, towering waves, or dangerous combat zones, you will be trained to locate and extract individuals in distress.

Your primary responsibilities may include:

-Performing search and rescue (SAR) operations in open waters, swift currents, and hazardous conditions.

-Conducting emergency medical care to stabilize injured personnel during recovery missions.

-Operating from helicopters such as the MH-60 Seahawk to execute air-sea rescues.

-Supporting humanitarian and disaster relief efforts, providing aid in times of crisis.

-Working alongside pilots and aircrew to plan and execute precision rescue missions.

-Undergoing advanced survival training, including underwater egress, free-fall parachuting, and other specialized skills.

Why Choose a Career as an AIRR?

-Elite Training: Gain advanced skills in survival, aviation, and rescue techniques through some of the most rigorous training available.

-Adventure & Impact: Every mission presents a unique challenge—whether assisting during natural disasters or conducting military operations, your work will save lives.

-Career Growth: Leverage your experience to transition into leadership roles, advanced technical fields, or specialized operations within the Navy and beyond.

-Competitive Benefits: Enjoy exceptional healthcare, educational assistance, travel opportunities, and financial incentives.

Who Are We Looking For?

-The ideal Aviation Rescue Swimmer candidate is:

-Physically and mentally resilient, capable of enduring challenging environments.

-A strong swimmer, comfortable in open water and high-stress situations.

-A team player with excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

-Adaptable, ready to take on unpredictable and dynamic missions.

If you are passionate about pushing your limits while making a direct impact on people's lives, this career path could be for you.

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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