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Marine Rescue Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Johnson Center for Marine Conservation Position Overview The Robert K. Johnson Center for Marine ... Rescue a Reef * Represent the Center at conferences, community events, and stakeholder meetings

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Marine Rescue information

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$7

$19

$28

How much do marine rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine rescue in Florida is $19.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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, often through certifications like US Coast Guard Auxiliary or similar organizations. Physical fitness, swimming ability, and knowledge of maritime safety are essential, and some roles require prior experience in emergency response or boating. Applicants should also pass background checks and may need to work irregular hours or be on call for emergencies.

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 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.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In the marine rescue field, high-paying roles such as experienced captains or specialized rescue operators can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with advanced certifications and extensive experience. These positions often require specialized skills, safety training, and sometimes on-call or emergency response schedules.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles related to marine rescue are rare, but executive positions in maritime companies, such as chief operations officers or company owners, can reach or exceed $500,000 annually. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often involve managing large teams or operations in the maritime or rescue sectors.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Marine rescue jobs typically do not pay $10,000 a month without specialized training, certifications, or experience. High-paying roles in this field are rare and usually require advanced skills, leadership positions, or working in private sectors such as maritime security or consulting, which may offer higher salaries without formal degrees. Most well-paying maritime jobs focus on experience, certifications, and physical fitness rather than formal education alone.

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 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.
What are popular job titles related to Marine Rescue jobs in Florida? For Marine Rescue jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Marine Rescue jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Marine Rescue jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Marine Rescue jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Marine Rescue job openings:

$51K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

St. Johns County residents enjoy a healthy quality of life with many perks including one of the top-rated public-school systems in the State of Florida, miles of beach shoreline, peaceful estuary scenery of the St. Johns River, long established agriculture and equestrian scene, and the nation's oldest city, historic St. Augustine. In 2019 St. Johns County was ranked the 10th fastest growing county in the United States showcasing that there is truly something for everyone in St. Johns County!


St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners is seeking full-time (24/48) Firefighter/EMTs and Firefighter/Paramedics for our multidiscipline Fire Rescue Department located in beautiful St. Augustine, Florida.The next recruit class will begin January 11, 2027.

St. Johns County is located in the northeast part of the State and is bordered by the St. Johns River to the west and 42 miles of ocean to the east. St. Johns County is 609 square miles and is protected by 18 stations. Our apparatus includes ALS Rescues, ALS Engines, Tankers, Heavy Rescue Squads and Aerial Apparatus.

St. Johns County Fire Rescue (SJCFR) currently employs 525 personnel. In 2023, St. Johns County Fire Rescue responded to 64,000 calls for service. Of those calls, 75% were EMS related. Employees working for SJCFR have an opportunity to be part of our Urban Search and Rescue Team. Hazardous Materials Team, Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF), Marine Rescue and Wildland Firefighting. We pride ourselves on being a progressive, professional fire rescue department dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of the community.

Applications due August 13, 2026.

  • Firefighter Benefits - St. Johns County

  • 2026 SJC Fire fighters 2448 St. Johns County Benefits & Perks

  • local-3865-iaff-rank-and-file-cba-2023-2025-fy-25-amendments.pdf

Examples of Duties:

The ideal Firefighter candidate must possess St. Johns County's core values ofDedication, Openness, Adaptability, Visionary, Fiscal Responsibility, Integrity, Humilityand must work well in a collaborative team environment. Some of the specific tasks include but are not limited to:

  • Administers appropriate patient care in emergency situations based upon department protocols and procedures.

  • Protects life and property through safe and effective fire suppression techniques, including hose stream application, water supply, forcible entry, search and rescue, salvage and overhaul, and ventilation operations.

  • Protects life and property through safe and effective vehicle extrication techniques utilizing specialized training and equipment.

  • Protects life and property through safe and effective marine rescue techniques utilizing specialized training and equipment.

  • Assists in performing scheduled mechanical inspections of all fire, medical and other equipment in an assigned unit; assists with replenishment, replacement and repairs; documents and notifies supervisor of operational defects.

  • Operates vehicles in a safe and lawful manner and according to department policies and procedures.

  • Participates in special duty community service activities.

  • Participates in required training.

  • Performs pre-fire planning and structure mapping.

  • Assists in the completion of fire and EMS reports.

  • Coordinates the service, repair and maintenance of fire and rescue apparatus and equipment, as assigned; coordinates the repair and maintenance of station facilities; receives and tracks shipments of parts; assists in the purchase of tools and equipment; assists in tracking departmental fixed assets.

  • Maintains a full-time presence on the job.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Candidates for Firefighter are encouraged to apply if they meet the following minimum qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • State of Florida EMT or Paramedic certification as issued through the Florida Department of Health (FDOH).

  • State of Florida Firefighter Certificate of Compliance.

  • Ability to meet current requirements set forth in Florida Statue #633, Division of State Fire Marshal Administrative Rules 69A-37.

  • Must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver's license and any other endorsements necessary to legally operate vehicles used while assigned to this position.

  • Must possess good interpersonal and communication skills in order to serve others.

  • Must be able to comprehend, speak and write the English language.

  • Must be able to operate a computer

Salary Range:

$51,425.92 -$61,676.16

Department:

Fire Rescue

St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners is a drug free workplace and equal opportunity employer. All employment actions are taken without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, handicap, disability, marital status, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.

VETERANS' PREFERENCE. Pursuant to Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, candidates eligible for Veterans' Preference will receive preference in employment for Career Service vacancies and are encouraged to apply. Certain service members may be eligible to receive waivers for postsecondary educational requirements. Candidates claiming Veterans' Preference must attach supporting documentation with each submission that includes character of service (for example, DD Form 214 Member Copy #4) along with any other documentation as required by Rule 55A-7, Florida Administrative Code. Veterans' Preference documentation requirements are available by clicking here. All documentation is due by the close of the vacancy announcement.

An applicant eligible for Veteran's Preference who believes he or she was not afforded employment preferences in accordance with Florida law may file a complaint requesting an investigation with the Florida department of veterans affairs. Veteran's Preference Coordinator, 11351 Ulmerton Road, Suite 311, Largo, FL 33778. A complaint must be filed within 60 calendar days from the date that the notice of hiring decision is received by the applicant or within three calendar months of the date of the application is filed within the employer if no notice is given. If no notice is given, it is the responsibility of the preferred applicant to contact the employer to determine if the position has been filled.