ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Marine Rescue Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Engineer - Unlicensed

Norfolk, VA · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Engineer - Unlicensed

Norfolk, VA · On-site

... 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 ...

All JobsMarine Rescue JobsMarine Rescue Jobs in Virginia

Marine Rescue information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$26

$37

How much do marine rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine rescue in Virginia is $26.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.16 and $31.20 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Marine Rescue jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Marine Rescue job openings:

Marine Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Rescue job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,155 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Marine Police Officer

Hampton, VA • On-site

Virginia Department of Human Resource Management
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Virginia Department of Human Resource Managementexternal

$50K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Board vessels, perform inspections, and enforce laws and regulations related to marine life conservation, boating safety, and navigation.

  • Issue summonses, make court appearances, and perform dockside inspections of commercial and recreational boats.

  • Participate in special assignments such as homeland security or undercover observation and respond to emergencies on waterways.

Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

834th of 858 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Marine Police Officer
Job no: 5087611
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Gloucester, Virginia, Hampton, Virginia, Kilmarnock, Virginia, King & Queen, Virginia, Lancaster, Virginia, Middlesex, Virginia
Categories: Public Safety, Law / Judiciary
Title: Marine Police Officer
State Role Title: Law Enforcement Officer II
Hiring Range: $50,000.00
Pay Band: 4
Agency: Marine Resources Commission
Location: main location
Agency Website: www.mrc.virginia.gov
Recruitment Type: General Public - G
Job Duties
VMRC is recruiting for a Marine Police Officer. Marine Police Officers (MPO's) serve as uniformed officers with responsibilities for consistent and effective enforcement of the laws and regulations on marine life conservation, exercises authority in boarding vessels for inspecting harvesting and transporting; licensing, polluted area sanitation; boating safety and navigation; performing search, rescue, and assistance on the waterways. MPO's duties include:
• Issue summonses and make appearances in court;
• Serve on major vessels and operate radio-equipped patrol cars;
• Performs dockside inspections and boards commercial and recreational boats;
• Special assignments involving homeland security or undercover observation;
• Variable work schedules to include seven (7) days a week with rotating shifts;
• Non-certified hires will be required to attend the Law Enforcement Academy.
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications and Knowledge- Skills and Abilities:
• Law Enforcement Certification is desired, but not required;*
• Must be at least 21 years of age;
• Must have a High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED);
• Must be eligible for a Valid Virginia Driver's License;
• Must be able to communicate with a diverse population;
• Must be able to interpret and apply policy/regulations in order to make sound decisions;
• Ability to effectively complete reports and files;
• Desire candidates that are familiar with Virginia waters and boating;
• Must be free from commercial fishing interests:
• Desire candidates that are familiar with Virginia waters and boating
Additional Considerations
Applicants must complete physical agility assessment, written test, criminal background investigation, credit check, physical exam, and drug testing. Federal law prohibits a person convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence from carrying a firearm.
All new hires must complete a 12-month probationary period.
Special Instructions
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
A Completed STATE APPLICATION is REQUIRED.
Contact Information
Name: Malinda Cross
Phone: 757-247-2216
Email: HR@MRC.VIRGINIA.GOV
In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.
Advertised: 01 Aug 2025 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply