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Ocean Rescue Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Ocean Breeze Waterpark

Lifeguard

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$15.25/hr

Lifeguard certification classes offered through Ocean Breeze Waterpark. Essential Duties and ... Attend weekly in-service training sessions to maintain CPR, first aid, and rescue skills at a ...

Ocean Breeze Waterpark

Lifeguard

Virginia Beach, VA

$15.25/hr

Lifeguard certification classes offered through Ocean Breeze Waterpark. Essential Duties and ... Attend weekly in-service training sessions to maintain CPR, first aid, and rescue skills at a ...

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Norfolk, VA

From the ocean surface, to outer space, you have a complete picture of all assets in the area. Day ... and rescue operations and other matters pertaining to the Operations Specialist's area PAY AND ...

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Annandale, VA

From the ocean surface, to outer space, you have a complete picture of all assets in the area. Day ... and rescue operations and other matters pertaining to the Operations Specialist's area PAY AND ...

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Williamsburg, VA

From the ocean surface, to outer space, you have a complete picture of all assets in the area. Day ... and rescue operations and other matters pertaining to the Operations Specialist's area PAY AND ...

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Richmond, VA

From the ocean surface, to outer space, you have a complete picture of all assets in the area. Day ... and rescue operations and other matters pertaining to the Operations Specialist's area PAY AND ...

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Chesapeake, VA

From the ocean surface, to outer space, you have a complete picture of all assets in the area. Day ... and rescue operations and other matters pertaining to the Operations Specialist's area PAY AND ...

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Hampton, VA

From the ocean surface, to outer space, you have a complete picture of all assets in the area. Day ... and rescue operations and other matters pertaining to the Operations Specialist's area PAY AND ...

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Harrisonburg, VA

From the ocean surface, to outer space, you have a complete picture of all assets in the area. Day ... and rescue operations and other matters pertaining to the Operations Specialist's area PAY AND ...

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Virginia Beach, VA

From the ocean surface, to outer space, you have a complete picture of all assets in the area. Day ... and rescue operations and other matters pertaining to the Operations Specialist's area PAY AND ...

U.S. Navy

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Lynchburg, VA

From the ocean surface, to outer space, you have a complete picture of all assets in the area. Day ... and rescue operations and other matters pertaining to the Operations Specialist's area PAY AND ...

State of Virginia

$42K - $57.68K/yr

... on the ocean, on the Chesapeake Bay, on 8 major rivers, on 4 major lakes, 4 rail trails, 3 ... Certification in Search and Rescue and/or First Aid/CPR/AED. Special Instructions You will be ...

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All JobsOcean Rescue JobsOcean Rescue Jobs in Virginia

Ocean Rescue information

See Virginia salary details

$51.1K

$90.5K

$131.4K

How much do ocean rescue jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean rescue in Virginia is $90,516.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $102,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Ocean Rescue job?

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 the Ocean Rescue position, and why are they important?

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.
More about Ocean Rescue jobs
What job categories do people searching Ocean Rescue jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Ocean Rescue jobs in Virginia are:
Ocean Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Rescue job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,516 per year, or $43.5 per hour.
15-Year-Old Lifeguard

15-Year-Old Lifeguard

Ocean Breeze Waterpark

Virginia Beach, VA

$14/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

No previous lifeguard experience or certification required.

Lifeguard certification classes offered through Ocean Breeze Waterpark.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Supervise and provide surveillance of swimmers according to the established protection standards
  • Perform water rescues on guests in distress
  • Provide basic first aid and emergency care
  • Maintain knowledge of and consistently enforce the rules and regulations of the water park
  • Attend weekly in-service training sessions to maintain CPR, first aid, and rescue skills at a rescue ready level
  • Communicate with others, including the use of emergency phones, whistles, and hand signals
  • Assist customers in safely enjoying attractions
  • Be attentive
  • Maintain a professional image
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment for customers and other team members
  • Provide superior guest service to all customers in a polite and expedient manner
  • Assist customers with questions regarding Ocean Breeze Waterpark
  • Follow park policies and procedures
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:
  • Must be at least 15 years of age
  • Ability to successfully complete and pass a Jeff Ellis and Associate lifeguard training course. Courses offered through Ocean Breeze Waterpark. No prior certification required.
  • Excellent recognition skills
  • Ability to communicate effectively with customers, team members, and leadership
  • Ability to accept guidance and supervision
  • Be aware, attentive, and work well with others
  • Ability to work in outdoor weather conditions while taking precautions, including hydration and sun-protection

Physical Demands:
  • Must be able to swim a minimum of 50 yards for Shallow Water Lifeguards or 200 yards for Pool Lifeguard License using front crawl (freestyle) or breaststroke without resting
  • Must be able to perform a feet-first surface dive to retrieve a 10-lb. brick from depths up to 5 feet for Shallow Water Lifeguards and up to depths of 10 feet for Special Facilities Lifeguards, and bring it to the surface
  • Must be able to tread water without using arms for 2 minutes for Special Facilities Lifeguards. No Tread required for Shallow Water Lifeguards.
  • Shallow Water lifeguards must swim underwater for a distance of 10 feet.
  • Must have 20/25 corrected vision
  • Must have hearing and speech, manual and bi-manual dexterity, fine and gross motor skills, and eye/hand coordination.
  • Must be able to get in and out of a pool without the use of a ladder
  • Must be comfortable jumping in the water from varying heights
  • Ability to climb stairs
  • Must be able to respond to situations quickly. This may include running to various locations around the park while carrying an equipment bag weighing up to 25lbs.
  • Must be able to sit, stand or walk for extended periods of time

Benefits:

  • FREE Season Pass
  • Free Tickets
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Career Development
We also offer a retention bonus of up to $500 for team members that average a certain number of hours per week during the qualifying time period and work through a specified date. Details about eligibility requirements for the Retention Bonus will be provided at a later date.

Jump into our talent pool! Are you looking for a fun, outdoor, summer job and great co-workers?

Flexible schedules! Free season pass for yourself and free tickets for friends and family!

No experience is required for most of our positions. We will train you and you will learn and build job skills.

Apply