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Marine Animal Rescue Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Marine Animal Rescue information

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$9

$20

$27

How much do marine animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine animal rescue in California is $20.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a marine animal rescue worker do?

A Marine Animal Rescue worker is responsible for responding to reports of stranded, injured, or ill marine animals such as dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and seals. They assess the animal's condition, provide emergency care, and transport the animal to a rehabilitation center if needed. These professionals also participate in releasing rehabilitated animals back into the wild and help educate the public about marine conservation. Their work often involves collaboration with veterinarians, scientists, and government agencies to support the health and survival of marine species.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a marine animal rescue specialist?

To thrive as a Marine Animal Rescue Specialist, you need expertise in marine biology, animal handling, and rescue procedures, often supported by a relevant degree and field experience. Familiarity with rescue equipment, first aid certification for animals, and data management systems are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, physical stamina, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the safe, efficient rescue and rehabilitation of marine animals, contributing to conservation efforts and public safety.

What are some common challenges faced by marine animal rescue professionals during field operations?

Marine animal rescue professionals often encounter unpredictable and challenging environments, such as rough seas, rapidly changing weather, and remote rescue locations. Working with injured or distressed animals can also be physically demanding and emotionally taxing, as not all rescues have positive outcomes. Additionally, effective communication and coordination with other team members, veterinarians, and authorities are essential for ensuring the safety of both the animals and the rescuers. Adapting quickly and problem-solving on the spot are key skills for overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Marine Animal Rescue vs Marine Biologist?

AspectMarine Animal RescueMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsCPR/First Aid, rescue certifications, sometimes specialized trainingDegree in Marine Biology or related field, research experience
Work EnvironmentRescue sites, rehabilitation centers, fieldworkResearch labs, field studies, academic settings
Employer & IndustryWildlife organizations, aquariums, conservation groupsUniversities, research institutions, government agencies

Marine Animal Rescue focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating injured or stranded marine animals, often requiring emergency response skills. Marine Biologists study marine life through research and data collection, often working in labs or on research vessels. While both roles involve marine animals, Rescue is more hands-on and emergency-oriented, whereas Marine Biology emphasizes scientific study and analysis.

How to become a marine animal rescuer?

To become a marine animal rescuer, individuals typically need a background in marine biology, veterinary science, or related fields, along with experience in animal care and rescue operations. Certifications in first aid, CPR, and specialized rescue training are often required, and volunteers or internships can provide valuable hands-on experience in marine environments.

What are popular job titles related to Marine Animal Rescue jobs in California?

For Marine Animal Rescue jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Marine Animal Rescue jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Marine Animal Rescue jobs in California are:

Marine Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Animal Rescue job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Internship, and 53% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,209 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Veterinary Anatomic Pathology Resident Rotation in Marine Mammal Medicine and Pathology

Marine Mammal Center

Sausalito, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Location of Program: Marin Headlands, Sausalito, California
Reports to: Director of Pathology
Program Classification: Seasonal externship/rotation: January 1 - December 31, 2027
Benefits: No benefits
Program Overview
The Veterinary Anatomic Pathology Resident Rotation is an opportunity for anatomic and clinical pathology residents in established programs (traditional and non-traditional tracks) or those that have recently completed a program, to gain experience in marine mammal anatomy and pathology. Rotating residents will provide postmortem data on our patients and select carcasses, which consists of phocids, otariids, and the occasional cetacean and sea otter. During their time at The Marine Mammal Center, they will become familiar with marine mammal gross necropsy and histopathology including classic diseases.
This program requires a minimum of 2 weeks to maximum of 4 weeks duration and has openings year-round. The highest case load will be between March 1 and September 30 of 2027 . (All slots for 2026 have been filled, with openings still available for 2027).
Shared housing near the Center MAY be available for a fee. Independent transportation is required; there is no public transportation to the Center's hospital and guest housing. Those who are accepted into the program will be asked to submit a separate application for housing.
Key Responsibilities
• Perform gross necropsies and write necropsy reports, trimming in cases, evaluating histology from cases and writing associated reports after review with the pathologist.
• Opportunity to aid in gross necropsy instruction with veterinary students.
Qualifications and Experience
• DVM, anatomic or clinical pathology resident in a pathology residency training program.
• Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination.
Physical Requirements
• Ability to stand, walk, climb stairs and frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds throughout the primarily outdoor hospital for extended periods of time in variable weather conditions.
• Ability to perform physical work requiring manual dexterity, agility, strength and coordination.
• Ability to remain in a stationary position and move in an office environment for extended periods of time.
• Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment.
• Ability to walk/cover up to 5 miles during a shift on a frequent basis.
Work Environment
• Working in outdoor weather conditions and elements daily.
• Exposure to sharp instruments and needles.
• Risks associated with animal handling such as animal bites or scratches.
• Potential exposure to formalin.
• Potential exposure to allergens and zoonotic diseases.
• Involves strong smells associated with dead animals and the care of animals.
ABOUT THE MARINE MAMMAL CENTER
The Marine Mammal Center is leading the field in ocean conservation through marine mammal rescue, veterinary medicine, science, and education. The Center is the largest marine mammal Teaching Hospital in the world and a critical training ground for veterinary professionals, combining high-quality animal care with hands-on learning experiences.
OUR MISSION
The Marine Mammal Center advances ocean health through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, research, and education.
OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY
The Marine Mammal Center actively engages individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to embracing diversity within our organization because we firmly believe that diverse employee teams help us to achieve our best organizational outcomes and provide the most effective support to the communities we serve. We are deeply dedicated to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable and supportive work environment. We strongly encourage people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and non-binary people, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities to apply. The Center is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team. The Marine Mammal Center believes in growth and supporting our employees as best we can so they can become their best selves in and outside of work. We believe that a healthy work environment means building an inclusive culture where people can thrive together and feel supported and empowered. We believe in stretch versus constraint.
To Apply: Applicants must submit all the following materials to be considered for this program: incomplete applications will not be reviewed
1. Cover letter outlining the applicant's interests and professional goals: must include your top 3 choice dates for a 2-4-week rotation.
2. Current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Name, email address, and phone number of at least two professionals familiar with the applicant's academic and/or clinical performance.
Application period is open throughout the year. The selection process will occur throughout the year, with notification to applicants within a month of applying.
Inquiries beyond the guidelines above can be directed to the following email address, but please review the information thoroughly prior to contacting: training@tmmc.org
Salary Description
Residency - no benefits.

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