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Ocean Rescue Lifeguard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Posting Title Lead Lifeguard Employee Type Regular Recruiting Start Date 06-29-2026 Job Exempt ... Ocean rescue experience. * Previous experience teaching school-aged children. * Previous experience ...

New

Ocean City, Maryland Job Title: Lifeguard Location: Ocean City, MD FLSA: Non-Exempt Status ... Recognize and respond to emergency situations swiftly using approved rescue techniques * Administer ...

Ocean City, Maryland Job Title: Lifeguard Location: Ocean City, MD FLSA: Non-Exempt Status ... Recognize and respond to emergency situations swiftly using approved rescue techniques * Administer ...

Lifeguards

Westerly, RI · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

... from ocean or beachfront areas, using rescue techniques and equipment.4) Examines injured ... Lifeguard:Experience preferred though not necessary.License/Certification:Surf Certification/First ...

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Ocean Rescue Lifeguard information

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$9

$24

$68

How much do ocean rescue lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for ocean rescue lifeguard in the United States is $24.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ocean rescue lifeguard?

Ocean Rescue Lifeguards are trained professionals responsible for ensuring the safety of beachgoers and swimmers in ocean environments. Their duties include monitoring the water for signs of distress, performing rescues, providing first aid, and educating the public about water safety. They are skilled in swimming, rescue techniques, and emergency response, often working in challenging conditions such as strong currents and waves. Ocean Rescue Lifeguards also collaborate with emergency services and enforce beach regulations to prevent accidents.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an ocean rescue lifeguard?

To thrive as an Ocean Rescue Lifeguard, you need strong swimming and rescue skills, first aid/CPR certification, and a solid understanding of ocean safety protocols. Familiarity with rescue equipment, radios, and emergency response systems is typically required, alongside certifications such as Red Cross Lifeguard or USLA certification. Excellent situational awareness, quick decision-making, and clear communication are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies are essential to ensure public safety, respond rapidly to emergencies, and effectively coordinate with team members in high-pressure, dynamic ocean environments.

What challenges do ocean rescue lifeguards face during peak beach season?

During peak beach season, Ocean Rescue Lifeguards often encounter challenges such as large crowds, rapidly changing ocean conditions, and increased numbers of swimmers requiring vigilance and quick decision-making. Managing multiple incidents simultaneously, including rescues and first aid situations, can be demanding. Lifeguards must also communicate effectively with team members and the public to ensure safety, enforce beach regulations, and provide clear instructions during emergencies.

What is the difference between Ocean Rescue Lifeguard vs Beach Lifeguard?

AspectOcean Rescue LifeguardBeach Lifeguard
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification, Ocean Rescue TrainingCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentOpen ocean, surf zones, rocky coastlinesSandy beaches, calm waters, shoreline areas
Employer & IndustryPublic beaches, coastal resorts, marine parksPublic beaches, recreational areas, resorts

Ocean Rescue Lifeguards specialize in rescuing swimmers in open water and surf conditions, requiring advanced training for ocean hazards. Beach Lifeguards typically focus on shoreline safety in calmer waters. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in environment and rescue techniques.

How do you become an ocean rescue lifeguard?

To become an ocean rescue lifeguard, candidates typically need to be at least 15 or 16 years old, complete a lifeguard training course such as Lifeguard Training and CPR certification, and pass a swimming and physical fitness test. Additional certifications like First Aid and AED are often required, and candidates should have strong swimming skills and comfort in the water. Ongoing training and physical fitness maintenance are necessary to retain the position.
More about Ocean Rescue Lifeguard jobs

What cities are hiring for Ocean Rescue Lifeguard jobs?

Cities with the most Ocean Rescue Lifeguard job openings:

What states have the most Ocean Rescue Lifeguard jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ocean Rescue Lifeguard jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Ocean Rescue Lifeguard jobs?

For Ocean Rescue Lifeguard jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ocean Rescue Lifeguard job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,458 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Lifeguard I Ocean Part-Time

Vero Beach, FL • On-site

Indian River County Board of County Commissioners
501 - 1,000 employees

$21.95/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Salary: $21.95 Hourly
Location : 1800 27th Street, Vero Beach, FL
Job Type: Part Time
Job Number: 02359
Department: Parks, Recreation, & Conservation
Division: Ocean Rescue
Opening Date: 06/19/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
This is skilled water safety work involving the prevention of accidents and injuries and responding with effective care and treatment to emergency situations at County Beaches. Works independently with periodic supervision provided by the Beach Operations Supervisor.
Essential Job Duties
  • Vigorously supervises all water and beach activities while on duty.

  • Conducts water rescue and administers first aid as needed.

  • Performs preventative actions by identifying and eliminating safety hazards

  • Enforces rules and regulations set forth by Indian River County.

  • Provides information to the public in a polite and informative nature.

  • Provides backup to other beaches and EMS when needed.

  • Maintains a level of physical conditioning that will tend to ensure the safety of the victim and rescuer alike.

Typical Requirements
Education and Experience:
  • High School Diploma or GED

Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:
Knowledge of water rescue methods, CPR, and first aid techniques.
Knowledge of park rules and regulations concerning public safety.
Ability to handle frightened or injured persons in the water.
Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations.
Ability to enforce rules and regulations firmly but tactfully.
Ability to remain alert over long periods of time.
Ability to maintain effective working relations with supervisors, employees, and the general public.
Ability to swim 550 yards or 500 meters, without equipment that enhances buoyancy or propulsion, over a measured course in ten minutes or less.
Ability to run 1/2 mile in less than 4 minutes
Ability to pass a medical skills evaluation and an ocean swimming agility test.
Ability to complete a surf rescue/medical test consisting of a 75 yd run, 75 yd swim to manikin, bring manikin back to shore, carry/drag manikin to dry sand, run back to tower to grab A.E.D. and MED Bag, run back to manikin and perform/answer medical procedures/questions in six minutes or less
Ability to work weekends and holidays
Licenses, Certifications, or Registrations:
  • Certified as having successfully completed one of the following courses for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR):
    • American Red Cross- CPR for the Professional Rescuer
    • American Red Cross- BLS
    • American Heart Association- BLS
    • American Safety & Health Institute- BLS

  • Certified as having successfully completed one of the following courses for Emergency Medical Responder:

  • American Red Cross- EMR
  • American Safety & Health Institute - EMR
  • National Registry/EMR

  • Certified as successfully completing a course consisting of a total of not less than 48 hours in open water lifesaving of the current U.S.L.A. Open Water Lifeguard Agency Certification program, Required Course Curriculum

  • SCUBA certification recommended

Part-time and Full-time Positions: As a condition of employment, the selectee must submit medical documentation that they possess the adequate vision, hearing acuity, physical ability, and stamina to perform the duties of an open water lifeguard.
Supplemental Information
This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with the position. While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.
JOB DESCRIPTION / ADA ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
ATTESTATION
I understand that a qualified employee or applicant with a disability may be afforded a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions of a position in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
I have read the job description for the above position and understand the job duties, requirements, and responsibilities for the position. I attest that I am able to perform the essential functions as outlined in the job description either with or without accommodation. I understand that if I require accommodation, I will contact the Human Resources Department to request accommodation.
If I have any questions about the job duties described in the above job description, I should discuss them with my immediate supervisor or a member of the Human Resources staff.
I have discussed any questions I may have had about this job description prior to signing this
form.
Employees Signature Date
Employees Name (Please Print) Employee Number
Employees in this class are represented by the Teamsters Local 769 Union. Please review our benefits handbook for an overview of benefits