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Marine Life Rescue Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Navy

FIREFIGHTER

Bridgeport, CA · On-site

$47K/yr

... States Marine Corps.Qualifications: GS-09: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of ... Fire and Life Safety training programs, and conducting fire and safety inspections off all ...

US Department of the Navy

FIREFIGHTER

Barstow, CA · On-site

$47K/yr

... States Marine Corps.Qualifications: GS-09: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of ... Fire and Life Safety training programs, and conducting fire and safety inspections off all ...

US Department of the Navy

FIREFIGHTER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$47K/yr

... States Marine Corps.Qualifications: GS-09: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of ... Fire and Life Safety training programs, and conducting fire and safety inspections off all ...

U.S. Marine Corps

FIREFIGHTER (PARAMEDIC)

Barstow, CA · On-site

... rescue responses. * You will respond to on-site accidents and other emergencies involving injury and illness and may encounter situations that are life threatening. * You will conduct a complete ...

U.S. Marine Corps

FIREFIGHTER (PARAMEDIC)

Barstow, CA · On-site +1

$65K - $93K/yr

... rescue responses. * You will respond to on-site accidents and other emergencies involving injury and illness and may encounter situations that are life threatening. * You will conduct a complete ...

Hornblower

Deckhand

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/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 ...

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All JobsMarine Life Rescue JobsMarine Life Rescue Jobs in California

Marine Life Rescue information

See California salary details

$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.

FIREFIGHTER

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Camp Pendleton, CA

$47K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

This vacancy announcement may be used to fill positions at various locations throughout the United States Marine Corps.Qualifications:GS-09: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-08 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: Serving as a Firefighter (Paramedic) providing fire prevention, and protection, assist in emergency operations to include hazardous material responses, and responding to medical emergencies performing initial and ongoing assessments, performing physical examinations, and assisting patients with medical treatment; planning, and coordinating a fire prevention program, establishing fire prevention policies and procedures, developing and implementing Fire and Life Safety training programs, and conducting fire and safety inspections off all buildings and areas
GS-08: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-07 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: utilizing firefighting techniques for fire hazards; working with firefighting equipment; driving and operating a variety of firefighting vehicles, apparatuses or equipment; serving as a Firefighter extinguishing fires, conducting search and rescue operations, performing invasive and non-invasive emergency and medical procedures.
NOTE: This information must be supported in your resume to be considered for the position.
Certifications for GS-08:
This position requires the incumbent to possess the following certifications: Firefighter I and II, Fire Officer I, Fire Instructor I, Fire Inspector I, HazMat Awareness, HazMat Operations, Apparatus Driver/Operator, State or National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT), Basic Life Support (EMT-D) certification and Hazmat Certification (within one year of employment)
State of California Department of Motor Vehicles Firefighter Endorsement (for positions located in CA)
If you do not possess all of the above certifications you will be rated ineligible. Do you possess the above certifications?
Certifications for GS-009 :
This position requires the incumbent to possess the following certifications: Firefighter I and II, Fire Instructor I, Fire Inspector I and II and HAZMAT Operations. Malintaln a valid State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) certification, or an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) certification that Is reciprocal to the State, or a National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) certification.
The certifications must have been awarded by DOD, IFSAC, or ProBoard to meet the requirement. If you do not possess all of the above certifications you will be rated ineligible. Do you possess the above certifications?
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0000/fire-protection-and-prevention-series-0081/
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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