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Marine Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ocean Rescue Lifeguard

Key West, FL · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Ocean Rescue Lifeguard The Ocean Rescue Lifeguard's primary responsibility is to ensure the safety ... Potential exposure to marine life such as jellyfish, stingrays, and other aquatic creatures. Risk ...

... rescue/rehabilitation medicine of aquatic species. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium, located near Clearwater Beach, FL, is supported by two clinical veterinarians, a hospital manager, and two ...

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Marine Rescue information

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How much do marine rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine rescue in the United States is $26.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $31.49 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 cities are hiring for Marine Rescue jobs?

Cities with the most Marine Rescue job openings:

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

The most popular types of Marine Rescue jobs are:

What states have the most Marine Rescue jobs?

States with the most job openings for Marine Rescue jobs include:

Infographic showing various Marine Rescue job openings in the United States 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 $55,632 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Veterinary Anatomic Pathology Resident Rotation in Marine Mammal Medicine and Pathology

The Marine Mammal Center

Sausalito, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description

Location of Program: Marin Headlands, Sausalito, California

Reports to: Director of Pathology

Program Classification: Seasonal externship/rotation: January 1 - December 31, 2027

Benefits: No benefits


Program Overview

The Veterinary Anatomic Pathology Resident Rotation is an opportunity for anatomic and clinical pathology residents in established programs (traditional and non-traditional tracks) or those that have recently completed a program, to gain experience in marine mammal anatomy and pathology. Rotating residents will provide postmortem data on our patients and select carcasses, which consists of phocids, otariids, and the occasional cetacean and sea otter. During their time at The Marine Mammal Center, they will become familiar with marine mammal gross necropsy and histopathology including classic diseases.

This program requires a minimum of 2 weeks to maximum of 4 weeks duration and has openings year-round. The highest case load will be between March 1 and September 30 of 2027. (All slots for 2026 have been filled, with openings still available for 2027).

Shared housing near the Center MAY be available for a fee. Independent transportation is required; there is no public transportation to the Center's hospital and guest housing. Those who are accepted into the program will be asked to submit a separate application for housing.


Key Responsibilities

Perform gross necropsies and write necropsy reports, trimming in cases, evaluating histology from cases and writing associated reports after review with the pathologist.

Opportunity to aid in gross necropsy instruction with veterinary students.


Qualifications and Experience

DVM, anatomic or clinical pathology resident in a pathology residency training program.

Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination.


Physical Requirements

Ability to stand, walk, climb stairs and frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds throughout the primarily outdoor hospital for extended periods of time in variable weather conditions.

Ability to perform physical work requiring manual dexterity, agility, strength and coordination.

Ability to remain in a stationary position and move in an office environment for extended periods of time.

Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment.

Ability to walk/cover up to 5 miles during a shift on a frequent basis.


Work Environment

Working in outdoor weather conditions and elements daily.

Exposure to sharp instruments and needles.

Risks associated with animal handling such as animal bites or scratches.

Potential exposure to formalin.

Potential exposure to allergens and zoonotic diseases.

Involves strong smells associated with dead animals and the care of animals.

ABOUT THE MARINE MAMMAL CENTER

The Marine Mammal Center is leading the field in ocean conservation through marine mammal rescue, veterinary medicine, science, and education. The Center is the largest marine mammal Teaching Hospital in the world and a critical training ground for veterinary professionals, combining high-quality animal care with hands-on learning experiences.

OUR MISSION

The Marine Mammal Center advances ocean health through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, research, and education.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

The Marine Mammal Center actively engages individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to embracing diversity within our organization because we firmly believe that diverse employee teams help us to achieve our best organizational outcomes and provide the most effective support to the communities we serve. We are deeply dedicated to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable and supportive work environment. We strongly encourage people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and non-binary people, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities to apply. The Center is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team. The Marine Mammal Center believes in growth and supporting our employees as best we can so they can become their best selves in and outside of work. We believe that a healthy work environment means building an inclusive culture where people can thrive together and feel supported and empowered. We believe in stretch versus constraint.


To Apply: Applicants must submit all the following materials to be considered for this program: incomplete applications will not be reviewed

1. Cover letter outlining the applicant's interests and professional goals: must include your top 3 choice dates for a 2-4-week rotation.

2. Current Curriculum Vitae (CV)

3. Name, email address, and phone number of at least two professionals familiar with the applicant's academic and/or clinical performance.

Application period is open throughout the year. The selection process will occur throughout the year, with notification to applicants within a month of applying.


Inquiries beyond the guidelines above can be directed to the following email address, but please review the information thoroughly prior to contacting: training@tmmc.org