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Ocean Rescue Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Ocean Rescue information

See Alaska salary details

$55.5K

$98.3K

$142.7K

How much do ocean rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean rescue in Alaska is $98,324.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,100.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ocean rescue?

An Ocean Rescue job involves lifeguarding and emergency response duties to ensure the safety of swimmers, surfers, and boaters in coastal and open water environments. Responsibilities include monitoring water conditions, performing rescues, administering first aid or CPR, and educating the public on water safety. Ocean rescue professionals must be strong swimmers, physically fit, and trained in lifesaving techniques. Many work for public safety agencies, beach patrols, or local governments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in ocean rescue?

To thrive in Ocean Rescue, you need strong swimming skills, first aid and CPR certification, and knowledge of water safety protocols. Familiarity with rescue equipment like jet skis, rescue boards, and communication radios is typically required, along with certifications such as lifeguard or open water rescue credentials. Excellent teamwork, quick decision-making, and calm communication during emergencies are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure swift, coordinated responses to emergencies and help save lives in high-pressure marine environments.

What are the typical work environments and schedules like for ocean rescue professionals?

Ocean Rescue professionals often work at beaches, coastal areas, or waterfronts, providing vigilant surveillance and rapid response to water-related emergencies. Shifts may vary depending on seasonality and beach hours, and can include early mornings, weekends, and holidays to ensure coverage during peak times. Teamwork is essential, as rescue personnel coordinate closely with each other and local emergency services. The work environment is dynamic and physically demanding, requiring constant alertness and adaptability to weather conditions and changing surf. This career can be highly rewarding for those who enjoy being outdoors and making a direct impact on public safety.

Is it hard to become an ocean rescue?

Becoming an ocean rescue professional typically requires physical fitness, swimming skills, and certification in lifeguarding and water rescue techniques. Additional training in first aid and CPR is often necessary, and candidates must pass physical and written tests to qualify for the role.

What are popular job titles related to Ocean Rescue jobs in Alaska?

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

What job categories do people searching Ocean Rescue jobs in Alaska look for?

The top searched job categories for Ocean Rescue jobs in Alaska are:

Infographic showing various Ocean Rescue job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,324 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Mate - Temporary Seasonal

Anchorage, AK • On-site

Temporary

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Mate of Towing 200-1600 GT

We are Alaska's tug andbarge company-- and are growing.

Cook Inlet Tug & Bargehasprovidedmarine services since 1924. We specialize in harbor services and fuel distribution throughout South Central, Southeast and Western Alaska. Visit www.cookinlettug.com to learn more about us.

Why Cook Inlet Tug & Barge?

Simply put, Cook Inlet Tug &Bargeisa team ofexceptionalmerchant mariners. If you are looking foradventure,flexibleseasonalwork, andenjoy what you do,this isan opportunity of a lifetime!Here, you willbeprofessionallychallengedin a remote environment with a stunning backdrop to add to your life experiences.

Benefits for your seasonal position may apply. If you are ready for an adventure, we would love to hear from you!

We will be starting interviews for our upcoming summer season NOW!

Get your application in today at: https://www.cookinlettug.com/careers!

Roles and Responsibilities

As Chief Mate you are responsible to the Captain for the safety and security of the vessel.

Working at the direction of the Captain to perform various tasks such as:

  • Ensuring crew's welfare and training in areas such as safety, firefighting, search and rescue.
  • Ensure the safe navigation of the vessel while steering, operating, pushing, and pulling barges and other vessels under tow, while docking, or unloading.
  • Implement company policies and procedures, and general maritime industry standards to maintain a safe work environment.
  • Focus on water depth, weather, surging and other traffic.
  • Keeping the tow wire clear of the bottom, navigational aids, and other vessels.
  • Assist with inspections and conduct required drills, training, safety meetings and records per company policy to include essential notifications.
Qualifications:
  • Mate of Towing 200 GT near coastal, Mate of Towing 500 GT near coastal or greater, or 500 ITC Oceans with a Mate of Towing Vessels upon Oceans endorsement. (TOAR) 1600 GT oceans (preferred).
  • Any AB rating (Able Seaman), Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW) and Proficiency in Survival Craft & Rescue Boat with Life Boatman (preferred).
  • Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential required/ STCW, HAZWOPER, and PIC (preferred).
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
  • Valid state driver's license.
  • ValidUnited States Passport.
  • Must be able to pass a criminal background checkwithqualificationsto enter Canada.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Experience and Skills:

  • Two years of previous experience during the last 15 years as a Deckhand, Deckhand/Engineer or licensed deck officer (preferred).
  • Three years of sea-going experience on towing vessels (preferred).
  • A marine operations background and are familiar with shipyards, tugs, and oil barges (preferred).
  • Extensive knowledge of Maritime law and current updates.
  • Skilled with equipment best suited to handle the job at hand.

Working conditions:

  • Lodging and provisions on the vessel
  • Transportation to and from the vessel provided by the company
  • Must bephysicallyfittoclimb aboard tugs and barges, ascend and descend ladders and balance while aboard vessels in aseaway; kneel,stoop, use stairs, reach overhead, and stand forlong periods.
  • Comfortable with heights or narrow walkways.
  • Must be able to work 12 hours a day every day for the full season.
  • Exposure toallweather conditions(rain, ice, snow, heat,wind, etc.).
  • Seasonal position -- four to six months.
  • As leaders in our industry, we take crew Health and Safety seriously

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse workforce and taking affirmative action to employ and advance qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. We are a drug-free employer and a participant of the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.