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Marine Rescue Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... marine safety devices, elevators, electronics, launches, rescue craft, and other critical systems. Engineers report directly to the ship's Captain regarding daily vessel operations and maintenance ...

Engineer - Unlicensed

Davenport, IA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

... marine safety devices, elevators, electronics, launches, rescue craft, and other critical systems. Engineers report directly to the ship's Captain regarding daily vessel operations and maintenance ...

... marine safety devices, elevators, electronics, launches, rescue craft, and other critical systems. Engineers report directly to the ship's Captain regarding daily vessel operations and maintenance ...

Marine Rescue information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$25

$35

How much do marine rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine rescue in Iowa is $25.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.01 and $29.57 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.
Infographic showing various Marine Rescue job openings in Iowa 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 $52,254 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Event Controller Subject Matter Expert - IA

Cymstar Services LLC

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Summary

Responsible for all phases of Mission Generation on the Simulator and Mission Planning Systems (MPS), to include producing DTCs and Crew Mission Packages. 

Essential Functions

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Participate as Event Controller for multiple DMO events
  • Participate in MPC activities in the conduct of DMO events.
  • Create and distribute mission planning cell materials to include but not limited to:
    • Scenario coordination sheets
    • ATO, Fragmentary Breakouts, ACO
    • AOB, GOB lay-downs
    • SPINS, ROE
    • Maps, target photos
    • Line-up cards, communication cards
    • Briefing slides
  • Create scenarios within Environment Generator software
  • Coordinate with NCC personnel for ECC set-up
  • Conduct mission briefing, execution, debriefing and event report documentation
  • Troubleshoot operations related to software and hardware issues
  •  Attend scheduled academics, meetings, and other training
  • Support other OTI activities defined by the Government
  • Duty Day to support published event schedule (includes 30 minutes unpaid lunch period)
Travel

The Event Controller Subject Matter Expert role requires up to 25% travel to support various Distributed Mission Operations (DMO) events and related activities. This travel is necessary for on-site coordination, mission planning, execution, debriefing, and troubleshooting. Flexibility and adaptability are essential to meet the demands of this role effectively.

Expected Hours of Work

A standard 40-hour workweek, Monday to Friday. Flexibility to work overtime and weekends as needed to meet project deadlines and client requirements.  

Supervisory Responsibilities

The Event Controller Subject Matter Expert does not have direct supervisory responsibilities. However, the role requires providing guidance and coordination to team members during mission planning, execution, and debriefing. The SME will also collaborate closely with other departments and personnel to ensure successful event outcomes and may mentor junior team members as needed.

Education and/or Experience

•    Current or former qualification with a minimum of three (3) years’ experience in any of the following:

  • Fighter aircraft
  • Attack aircraft
  • Remote Piloted Vehicle
  • Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance
  • Tactical Air Control Party (TACP)
  • Joint Terminal Air Controller (JTAC)
    • Air Battle Manager (ABM) and/or Command and Control (C2)
    • Military Intelligence
    • Combat Search and Rescue
    • Army or Marine Corps combat arms officer
    • Army or Marine Corps aviation experience as pilot (fixed wing or rotary wing)
    • Military Air Forces
    • Group 4 or 5 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Flight Operations

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

None

Citizenship

U.S. Citizenship required. Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret level security clearance. 

Competency

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required for this position.  

Language Skills

Proficiency in speaking, reading and writing in English. Ability to read, analyze and interpret common professional and industry relevant technical literature. Ability to correspond professionally, effectively and efficiently with coworkers, subcontractors, customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community in person and in a virtual team environment. 

Mathematical Skills

Ability to comprehend, calculate and apply principles of business math. 

Computer Skills

Solid Technology skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, are essential. Experienced and proficient in the use of standard personal computer software tools; including word processors, spreadsheets, presentation graphics, databases, virtual meetings, team collaboration software, project tracking and databases. 

Reasoning Ability

Ability to identify and define problems, gather and analyze relevant data, establish facts, and draw sound, logical conclusions. 

Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

  • Sitting and standing: The ability to remain in a stationary position for part of the time, and to occasionally move around the office. 
  • Using hands and fingers: Operating a computer, keyboard and telephone, as well as handling or feeling other objects.
  • Reaching, stooping and kneeling: Accessing files and other items
  • Vision: Close vision for computer work.
  • Lifting and carrying: Moving small items and possibly lifting and carrying up to 25 pounds. 
  • Attendance: Regular, predictable attendance is required. 
Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those a teammate encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Moderate noise (i.e., business office with computers, phone, and printers, light traffic).
  • Ability to work in a confined area.
  • Ability to sit at a computer terminal for an extended period.
Other Requirements
  • Comply with company policies and procedures and work instructions. 
  • Follow company standards of professionalism.
  • Treat customers and coworkers with respect.
  • Be honest and dedicated in your work.
  • Follow directions of supervisory and management staff.
  • Comply with company quality standards.
  • Maintain a professional appearance and comply with any company dress code.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

CymSTAR, LLC will recruit, hire, train, and promote qualified individuals in all job titles and ensure that all other personnel actions are administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, military and/or veteran status, or disability or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws in accordance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, which require affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity in all aspects of employment. CymSTAR, LLC does not discriminate on the basis of national origin or citizenship status as provided under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. 


If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact our Human Resources department via phone at 918-251-8100 or email at hr@cymstar.com 


This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.