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Marine Rescue Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Marine Mechanic

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$70K - $84K/yr

THE DIVISION The Harbor Patrol/Marine Operations Bureau provides around-the-clock law enforcement, marine firefighting and search/rescue services along the 48 miles of Orange County coastline and ...

Marine Mechanic

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$70K - $84K/yr

THE DIVISION The Harbor Patrol/Marine Operations Bureau provides around-the-clock law enforcement, marine firefighting and search/rescue services along the 48 miles of Orange County coastline and ...

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

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Marine Rescue information

See California salary details

$10

$26

$37

How much do marine rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine 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 rescue?

Marine rescue refers to the specialized field of responding to emergencies in aquatic environments, such as oceans, rivers, and lakes. Professionals in marine rescue are trained to save lives, assist vessels in distress, and conduct search and rescue operations during maritime accidents. Their work often involves coordinating with other emergency services and using boats, helicopters, and specialized equipment to reach people in need. Marine rescue teams play a critical role in ensuring the safety of those who work or travel on the water.

How to get a job in marine rescue?

Advanced positions in marine rescue require a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, natural science, or a related field, and becoming a vet requires four years of advanced education to earn qualifications as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. For community outreach roles, many organizations require a degree in education, and for internships, you must demonstrate a commitment to the field of conservation and enroll in a relevant four-year graduate or undergraduate program. Previous experience working with and caring for animals is important, and you also need strong communication skills, the ability to lift and carry fifty pounds or more, and a willingness to work outdoors, sometimes in extreme weather.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a marine rescue professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Marine Rescue professional, you need strong swimming ability, water safety expertise, first aid/CPR certification, and often a background in emergency response or maritime operations. Familiarity with rescue boats, communication devices, GPS navigation, and sometimes advanced life-saving certifications are typically required. Quick decision-making, teamwork, resilience, and excellent communication are crucial soft skills for this high-pressure role. These skills ensure the effective, safe, and timely rescue of individuals in marine emergencies, minimizing risks to both victims and rescuers.

What are the typical challenges faced when responding to marine emergencies as part of a marine rescue team?

Marine Rescue professionals often face rapidly changing weather conditions, unpredictable sea states, and limited visibility, which can make search and rescue operations challenging. Communication and coordination with other agencies, such as the Coast Guard or local authorities, are critical for a successful response. Team members must remain calm under pressure, adapt quickly to evolving situations, and be physically prepared for demanding tasks. Regular training and debriefings help teams learn from each mission and improve future responses.

What is the difference between Marine Rescue vs Coast Guard Auxiliary?

AspectMarine RescueCoast Guard Auxiliary
CertificationsRescue certifications, CPR, first aidAuxiliary-specific training, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentOn-water rescue, emergency responseSupport roles, patrols, public education
Employer & IndustryMaritime rescue organizations, coast guardU.S. Coast Guard, volunteer support

Marine Rescue personnel focus on emergency on-water rescue operations, requiring specialized rescue and medical certifications. Coast Guard Auxiliary members support these efforts through patrols, safety education, and auxiliary assistance, often with different certification requirements. Both roles operate within the maritime safety industry but serve distinct functions in emergency response and community support.

How to work at a marine rescue?

To work as a marine rescue professional, candidates typically need to complete specialized training in water rescue, first aid, and CPR, and obtain relevant certifications such as US Coast Guard licenses or equivalent. Physical fitness, swimming ability, and knowledge of rescue equipment are essential, and applicants often work in team environments with shift schedules. Prior experience in boating, lifeguarding, or emergency response can improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Rescue jobs in California?

The most popular types of Marine Rescue jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Marine Rescue jobs?

Cities in California with the most Marine Rescue job openings:

Infographic showing various Marine Rescue job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,904 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Marine Mechanic

County of Orange

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$70K - $84K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

CAREER DESCRIPTION MARINE MECHANIC This recruitment will be posted for a minimum of five (5) business days and will remain posted on a continuous basis until the needs of the Department are met. Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. Salary may be negotiable within the range listed above, based on position requirements and successful candidate's qualifications, subject to appropriate authorization.

THIS RECRUITMENT IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC POSITION/RECRUITMENT INFORMATION This recruitment is being held to establish an Open Eligible List. The list can be used to fill current and future Marine Mechanic positions. The eligible list established may also be used to fill similar and/or lower-level classifications.

THE DEPARTMENT The Orange County Sheriff's Department is among the largest in the nation, providing exemplary law enforcement services focused on a collaborative, dedicated and innovative approach to public safety. Our nearly 4,000 sworn and professional staff are committed to serving the needs of Orange County through six organizational Commands comprised of 23 Divisions. Together, these Commands and Divisions provide services including land, air and sea-based patrol, custody operations, investigative services, emergency management, coroner services, forensics and specialty operations, among an extensive list of other public safety services.

THE DIVISION The Harbor Patrol/Marine Operations Bureau provides around-the-clock law enforcement, marine firefighting and search/rescue services along the 48 miles of Orange County coastline and within the county's three major harbors at Newport Beach, Sunset-Huntington and Dana Point. The Marine Operations fleet consists of six twin-engine inboard fireboats and nine twin-engine outboard patrol boats. The fleet is completely maintained "in-house" by the bureau's highly skilled marine mechanics and craftsmen.

The maintenance staff consists of one supervisor, four marine mechanics, two marine painters, and one marine carpenter. THE OPPORTUNITY The Marine Mechanics under direction perform journey level work in installing, maintaining and repairing marine inboard and outboard gasoline engines and propulsion equipment; to maintain and repair fire pumps and other mechanical equipment. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Applicants must not have been convicted of a felony or be on any form of probation and must pass an extensive background investigation to the satisfaction of the Orange County Sheriff-Coroner.

Background screening includes completing of a Personal History Form, interview with a background investigator, fingerprinting and may include a polygraph test. Some of the areas considered in the background screening include prior convictions, traffic violations, drug use and credit problems, employment history, professional references and education verification (i.e. degree, license, or official transcripts)

Foreign degrees require an evaluation of U.S. equivalency by an agency that is a member of the National Association of Credential Services (N.A.C.E.S). MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Click here to learn more about the minimum qualifications and example of duties for the Marine Mechanic position

IDEAL CANDIDATE The ideal candidate will possess more than five (5) years of experience in installing, maintaining and repairing marine inboard gasoline engines, propulsion equipment, transmissions, steering systems, and outboards; to maintain and repair fire pumps and other mechanical equipment. Ideal candidate would also have completed service training schools from one or more of the following: Mercury Marine, Crusader Marine, or Yamaha outboards. PHYSICAL, MENTAL, and ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENT The County of Orange is committed to providing a means for applicants who may have a disability to identify areas in which they may request a reasonable accommodation.

Below is a description of the physical, mental, and environmental abilities that are customarily required to perform the essential job functions of the position. Applicants are encouraged to contact the recruiter identified in the announcement for any questions or to request an accommodation during the selection process. Physical Requirements Ability to stand, reach, bend, stoop, and perform strenuous physical/manual labor.

Ability to walk up/down uneven terrain/irregular surfaces/hills. Upper body strength to lift/push/pull/carry up to 50 pound objects; vision sufficient to read standard text, and to drive vehicles requiring a Class B license with passenger endorsement, such as dump crews passenger trucks; speak and hear well enough in a noisy environment to communicate clearly and understandably in person, over the telephone and in small groups; and manual dexterity to write. Able to swim and perform ocean sea tests in Harbor Patrol vessels.

Environmental Conditions Stamina to work outdoors in varied climates and exposed to weather, noise, pollens, dust, fumes, birds, noise, and vibration. Ability to work on floating docks and moving vessels. SELECTION PROCEDURES Human Resources | Minimum Qualifications Sheriff Human Resources screens all application to identify the most qualified candidates for the position based on skills required to meet the needs of the Department.

After the initial screening, the qualified candidates will be referred to the next step and notified of all further procedures applicable to their status in the competition. Structured Oral Interview | Oral Exam (Weighted 100%): A panel of job knowledge experts will interview and evaluate each candidate's responses to a series of structured questions designed to elicit the candidate's qualifications for the job. This is a competitive process; therefore, candidate responses to the structured questions should be thorough, detailed, and complete.

Only the most successful candidates will be placed on the eligible list. Based on the Department's needs, the selection procedures listed above may be modified. All candidates will be notified of any changes in the selection procedures.

ELIGIBLE LIST After all procedures have been completed, Sheriff Human Resources will establish an eligible list of qualified candidates. Candidates placed on the eligible list may be referred to a selection interview to be considered for present and future vacancies. Veterans Employment Preference Policy (VEPP) The County is committed to providing a mechanism to give preferential consideration in the employment process to veterans and their eligible spouses and will provide eligible participants the opportunity to receive interviews in the selection process for employment and paid internship openings.

Please click here to review the policy. HOW TO APPLY Only on-line applications will be accepted. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of on-line applications.

Application information must be current, succinct and related to the requirements in this job announcement. Your application should demonstrate your professional experience and education related to the specific qualifications/duties listed in this bulletin, including areas which you have developed expertise. For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, contact Lidia Verduzco at (714) 834-5621 or email liverduzco@ocsheriff.gov

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION EMAIL NOTIFICATION: Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account. NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person.

Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply. Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at www.governmentjobs.com

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions. EEO INFORMATION Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer, encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.