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Marine Life Rescue Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hornblower

Marine Operations - Deckhand

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18/hr

... Marine, which provides vessel outhaul and maintenance services at Bridgeport Boatworks in ... vest, life floats, and rescue boat). * Handle and dispose of all chemicals and other types of ...

U.S. Marine Corps

FIREFIGHTER

Barstow, CA

You will serve as driver/operator of fire(pumper) apparatus, aerial ladder truck, heavy rescue ... basic life support measures. * You will take vital signs, treat for shock, maintain open airways ...

U.S. Marine Corps

FIREFIGHTER

Barstow, CA · On-site +1

$42K - $61K/yr

You will serve as driver/operator of fire(pumper) apparatus, aerial ladder truck, heavy rescue ... basic life support measures. * You will take vital signs, treat for shock, maintain open airways ...

U.S. Marine Corps

FIREFIGHTER

Barstow, CA

You will serve as driver/operator of fire(pumper) apparatus, aerial ladder truck, heavy rescue ... basic life support measures. * You will take vital signs, treat for shock, maintain open airways ...

NV5

Technician II Diver

South Lake Tahoe, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Overview Marine Taxonomic Services, Ltd. (MTS) is an environmental consulting firm committed to ... Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, Scientific Diver, Altitude Diver, Drysuit Diver, Divemaster

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Marine Life Rescue information

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$10

$26

$37

How much do marine life rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine life rescue in California is $26.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 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 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.

How to become a marine life rescuer?

To become a marine life rescuer, individuals typically need a background in marine biology, environmental science, or a related field, along with training in animal handling and rescue techniques. Certifications in first aid, CPR, and specialized rescue courses are often required, and experience volunteering or working with conservation organizations can improve job prospects.

What job rescues marine life?

Marine life rescue jobs are typically performed by marine mammal or wildlife rehabilitators, marine biologists, and conservationists. These professionals respond to stranded, injured, or entangled marine animals, often working with specialized tools and following protocols to ensure animal safety and recovery.

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

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

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

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

Marine Life Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Life Rescue job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,904 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Naval/Marine Engineer IV

Oceaneering International, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Oceaneering rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

372nd of 494 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description


The Sustainment Engineer exercises technical leadership, management and oversight of maintenance and operations of all submarine rescue systems and supporting equipment. The Sustainment Engineer will also serve in a direct operational / watchstanding role embarked on working vessels during at sea operations.
Responsibilities
  • Provide technical oversight of all submarine rescue systems and supporting equipment.
  • Support and instill a safety culture in compliance with Oceaneering's Life Safety Rules and HSE program.
  • Provide regular formal and informal technical liaison with Naval Systems Command, Planning Yard, URC staff and American Bureau of Shipping engineers and surveyors.
  • Develop and propose field changes, including hazard analysis, design review and technical guidance as necessary for all submarine rescue systems and supporting equipment.
  • Propose improvements to operational and maintenance processes involved with submarine rescue systems.
  • Provide oversight of new system integration and certification.
  • Coordinate, approve and provide oversight of long-term maintenance and testing plans of submarine rescue systems and supporting equipment.
  • Rapidly research and develop solutions to repair critical equipment in at sea environments that present unforeseen challenges.
  • Encourage active communication within the SROMC OTECH team and between OTECH SRS Engineering, the staffs of URC, fleet activities and Naval Sea Systems Command activities, including the Planning Yard. Promote the exchange of technical knowledge and lessons learned.
  • Keep abreast of new scientific methods and developments affecting the international submarine rescue community. Make recommendations concerning needed changes.
  • Actively support new business development in international markets.
  • Liaison with individuals and other organizations outside the company and act independently on technical matters pertaining to submarine rescue systems, procedures and supporting equipment.
  • Take an active leadership role in cost estimating, technical approach definition, and input to baseline schedules.
  • Significant travel and at sea operations will be required.

Qualifications
REQUIRED
  • An accredited college graduate engineer with a Bachelor of Science in engineering specialty.
  • Minimum 10 years of progressively responsible engineering experience in relatable fields.
  • Possess and apply advanced knowledge of engineering principles and practices in marine related engineering fields.
  • Possesses a broad knowledge of the technical issues relevant to submarine rescue systems and related equipment.
  • Demonstrates well-developed leadership qualities.
  • Demonstrated writing and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work as a team member ashore and afloat aboard working vessels.
  • Extensive travel and the ability to work away from home for periods up to 45 days.
  • A current SECRET clearance or the ability and desire to obtain a SECRET clearance depending on the project or operation supported.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.

DESIRED
  • Designation as a Professional Engineer and/or master's degree in engineering.
  • Complete knowledge of Microsoft Office products
  • Familiarization with drafting programs such as AUTOCAD
  • Working knowledge of American Bureau of Shipping rules.
  • Working knowledge of NAVSEA certification programs for both Deep Submergence Systems and Diving & Manned Hyperbaric Systems.
  • Proficiency with a variety of field concepts, practices, procedures and equipment operations such as GPS, Side Scan Sonars, ROV and Launch and Recovery and Hyperbaric systems.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics
  • Ability to analyze situations accurately, utilizing a variety of analytical techniques in order to make well informed decisions.
  • Be familiar with standard US Navy decision making processes and be able to proficiently work within that framework.
  • Working knowledge of American Bureau of Shipping rules.
  • Ability to build and strengthen teams.
  • Knowledge of research and data gathering methods.
  • Skill to read and comprehend job related materials, drawings and documents.
  • Skill to gather, analyze and interpret data.
  • Develop new approaches, techniques, methods, or technologies.
  • Work cooperatively with others to produce innovative solutions.
  • Knowledge of confidentiality rules, procedures, and information exchange agreements to protect information..
  • Treat others fairly and with respect.
  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.
  • Ability to acquire and apply new knowledge or skills for work.
  • Master new technical and organizational concepts and information.
  • Take advantage of professional development opportunities.
  • Ability to act independently.
  • Exhibit a strong sense of urgency about solving problems and accomplishing work.
  • Maintain commitment to goals, in the face of obstacles and frustrations.
  • Work effectively under pressure.
  • Ability to work in a team environment, remaining attentive to ideas, recognizing responsibilities, and actively participating with others to accomplish assignments and achieve desired goals.
  • Prepare for meetings and presentations.
  • Review and check the accuracy of information in work reports.
  • Express ideas clearly and concisely in writing.
  • Organize written ideas clearly. Tailors written communications to effectively reach an audience.

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. Employee benefits vary by role, however, may include Health and Wellness, Mental Health, Retirement Savings, Life and Disability, Paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, Tuition Reimbursement, and an Employee Assistance Program.
The hourly range for this position is $57.02 - $85.48
About Us
Oceaneering is a global provider of engineered services and products, primarily to the offshore energy industry. We develop products and services for use throughout the lifecycle of an offshore oilfield, from drilling to decommissioning. We operate the world's premier fleet of work class ROVs. Additionally, we are a leader in offshore oilfield maintenance services, umbilicals, subsea hardware, and tooling. We also use applied technology expertise to serve the defense, material handling, aerospace, science, and renewable energy industries.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
All qualified candidates will receive consideration for all positions without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other non-merit factor.
About the Team
Oceaneering Aerospace and Defense Technologies (AdTech) delivers solutions that enable humans to work safely and effectively in harsh environments - from underwater to the outer reaches of space. Our innovative solutions support the development and application of practical, cost-effective systems that meet our customers' challenges - from routine to extreme. Our experience and expertise across multiple industries uniquely positions us as a leader in the government, space, and maritime services markets. Our products and services meet the rigorous demands of the complex environments in which they operate, delivering results without compromising safety or reliability.

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