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Marine Life Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Surf Rescue Opening Date: 05/21/2026 Closing Date: 6/4/2026 12:00 AM Central EEO: Bay County is an ... marine life. * Assumes responsibility for completion of daily checklists of apparatus and daily ...

Surf Rescue Specialist (Seasonal)

FL · On-site

$20.69 - $36.22/hr

Surf Rescue Opening Date: 05/21/2026 Closing Date: 6/4/2026 12:00 AM Central EEO: Bay County is an ... or hazardous marine life. * Responsible for completion of daily checklists of apparatus.

Surf Rescue Specialist

Panama City, FL · On-site

$43K - $75K/yr

... marine life. Assumes responsibility for completion of daily checklists of apparatus and daily logs ... Operates and assures readiness of assigned Beach & Surf Rescue apparatus and associated ...

Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard)

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

Performs rescue work, promptly renders cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or emergency first aid ... Documents marine life, water conditions and weather conditions. General duties comprise 40% of ...

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Marine Life Rescue information

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$10

$26

$38

How much do marine life rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine life rescue in the United States is $26.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by marine life rescue professionals during field operations?

Marine life rescue professionals often encounter unpredictable and challenging field conditions, such as rough weather, remote locations, and distressed animals that may require immediate attention. These situations demand quick decision-making, strong teamwork, and adaptability. Additionally, coordinating with local authorities, veterinarians, and research organizations is common, requiring effective communication skills. Flexibility and a strong commitment to animal welfare are essential for overcoming the physical and emotional demands of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Marine Life Rescue Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Marine Life Rescue Specialist, you need a background in marine biology or environmental science, hands-on animal handling experience, and often specialized training or certifications in marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation. Familiarity with rescue equipment, data collection software, and regulatory systems such as NOAA guidelines is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial for responding to emergencies and working with diverse teams. These skills ensure the safe and efficient rescue, treatment, and release of marine animals, contributing to conservation efforts and public safety.

What is marine life rescue?

Marine life rescue involves responding to situations where marine animals, such as whales, dolphins, seals, or sea turtles, are stranded, injured, or in distress. Professionals in this field assess the condition of the animal, provide immediate care, and work to safely return them to their natural habitat when possible. They may also collaborate with veterinarians, researchers, and local authorities. This work is vital for the conservation of marine species and often includes public education about the threats facing ocean life.

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

AspectMarine Life RescueMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsCertifications in first aid, rescue techniques, and marine safetyDegree in marine biology or related field, research experience
Work EnvironmentRescue operations in coastal, marine, or rescue centersResearch labs, field studies, marine environments
Employer & IndustryRescue organizations, conservation groups, aquariumsUniversities, research institutions, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonRescue and emergency response for marine animalsMarine animal research and ecological studies

Marine Life Rescue focuses on emergency response, rescue, and rehabilitation of marine animals, requiring certifications in rescue techniques. Marine Biologists conduct research, study marine ecosystems, and often work in labs or field studies. While both roles aim to protect marine life, Marine Life Rescue is more action-oriented, whereas Marine Biologists focus on scientific research and data collection.

More about Marine Life Rescue jobs
What states have the most Marine Life Rescue jobs? States with the most job openings for Marine Life Rescue jobs include:
Infographic showing various Marine Life Rescue job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,632 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
Ocean Rescue Lifeguard I /EMT #2025-064

Ocean Rescue Lifeguard I /EMT #2025-064

City of Pompano Beach

Pompano Beach, FL

$48K - $68K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Additional Compensation: 7% incentive with a valid Florida EMT certification Join our team and play a critical role in ensuring public safety on our City beach. This position involves skilled, hands-on work focused on maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all beachgoers. Responsibilities include patrolling the beach, responding to water emergencies, rescuing swimmers in distress, and administering first aid and basic life support.

The role also involves enforcing City ordinances, assisting with emergency response and patient transport, and performing routine maintenance duties. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed. Qualifications Education High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience Previous Ocean Lifeguard experience preferred. Significant verifiable ocean lifeguard experience or U.S. Military Rescue Swimmer (e.g., USCG Rescue Swimmer) may be substituted for the lifeguard certificate

Licenses / Certifications Valid Driver's License. Nationally recognized lifeguard certification (American Red Cross, YMCA, United States Lifesaving Association). American Red Cross CPR for the Professional Rescuer, American Heart Association Basic Life Support, or equivalent.

Florida State-certified EMT. If certified by the National Registry of EMTs, they must obtain the FL. State EMT certification within 6 months of hire.

Must pass required United States Lifesaving Association swim & rescue skills test, physical, and drug screening. Swim test and interviews will be held by invitation only. Key Competencies Knowledge of water safety rules and regulations.

Ability to establish rapport with the general public, fellow workers, and supervisors. Physical Requirements Sedentary work to extreme labor-intensive work based on rescue situations. Physical abilities include swimming, running, walking, standing, sitting, carrying, bending, kneeling, crawling, reaching, pulling, pushing, climbing, lifting, hearing, talking, and seeing.

Outside work under all weather conditions. Occupational hazards include possible exposure to communicable diseases, bites/stings from marine life. Additional Information Work Days/Hours: 40 hours per week, five days/week; Monday - Sunday, including holidays between 8 a.m

- 5 p.m. (EST). Job Status: ( X ) Full time ( ) Part time/temporary Department/Number: Fire/EMS Ocean Rescue/2250 Pay Plan/Grade: 42/19 Position is open until filled

The City of Pompano Beach welcomes everyone who would like to become a member of our team and who wants to "Do Good". The City does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, religion, genetic information, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, familial status, or other circumstances and characteristics protected by state or federal law. The City promotes diversity of culture, background, thought, and ideas.

The City strives to make inclusion a part of everything we do and strives for a work environment that creates a sense of belonging for everyone. Need help applying. Visit the Online Employment Application Guide for detailed instructions on how to complete and submit your application.