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Marine Rescue Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Branch County

Marine Patrol Deputy

Coldwater, MI · On-site

Ability to swim and perform water rescue functions. Preferred Qualifications * Prior law ... Prior marine patrol, boating, or water rescue experience. * Knowledge of Michigan boating laws and ...

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Marine Rescue information

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$9

$23

$33

How much do marine rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine rescue in Michigan is $23.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $27.45 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.
More about Marine Rescue jobs

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

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

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

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

Marine Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Rescue job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% As Needed, 60% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,489 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Marine Patrol Deputy

Branch County

Coldwater, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Under the general supervision of the Sheriff or designated supervisor, the Marine Patrol Deputy performs law enforcement and public safety duties on Branch County waterways. Responsibilities include enforcement of marine laws, boating safety regulations, accident investigation, emergency response, public education, and patrol of county lakes and waterways to protect life and property.

Essential Functions

An employee in this position may be called upon to perform any or all of the following essential duties. These examples do not include all tasks which the employee may be expected to perform.

  • Patrol county lakes, rivers, and waterways using assigned patrol vessels.
  • Enforce Michigan marine safety laws, boating regulations, and applicable criminal statutes.
  • Conduct vessel inspections, safety checks, and boating compliance enforcement.
  • Respond to boating accidents, emergencies, water rescues, distress calls, and public complaints.
  • Investigate marine accidents and incidents; prepare reports and maintain documentation.
  • Issue citations, warnings, and make arrests in accordance with departmental policies and state law.
  • Monitor waterways for impaired boating, reckless operation, overcrowding, and unsafe conditions.
  • Assist in search and rescue, water recovery, and emergency management operations.
  • Educate boaters and the public on boating safety, navigation rules, life jacket requirements, and water safety best practices.
  • Provide law enforcement presence during holidays, special events, fireworks, tournaments, and other high-traffic periods.
  • Inspect, clean, fuel, and maintain assigned marine patrol equipment, vessels, trailers, radios, and safety gear.
  • Coordinate with local law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, DNR, and emergency response agencies.
  • Attend training and maintain required certifications.
  • Testify in court as necessary.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Valid Michigan driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain boating safety certification.
  • CPR, First Aid, and AED certification or ability to obtain within established timeframe.
  • Ability to swim and perform water rescue functions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior law enforcement or corrections experience.
  • Prior marine patrol, boating, or water rescue experience.
  • Knowledge of Michigan boating laws and marine safety regulations.
  • Experience operating boats, trailers, and marine equipment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of law enforcement principles, criminal law, and marine regulations.
  • Ability to safely operate patrol boats under varying weather and water conditions.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency and enforcement situations.
  • Strong communication and report writing skills.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, elected officials, agencies, and the public.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift, carry, and move equipment up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to board, launch, dock, and operate marine vessels.
  • Ability to swim, tread water, and perform rescue-related duties.
  • Ability to sit, stand, bend, climb, kneel, and maneuver on unstable surfaces.

Working Conditions

Work is performed primarily outdoors on county waterways with exposure to sun, heat, cold, rain, wind, water hazards, noise, and fuel-related odors. Evening, weekend, holiday, and emergency response hours are frequently required during boating season.

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