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Surf Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Bay County, FL

Surf Rescue Specialsit

FL · On-site

$43K - $75K/yr

Surf Rescue Opening Date: 08/04/2026 Closing Date: 8/8/2026 11:59 PM Central EEO: Bay County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including ...

Discovery Land Company

Surf Guide

Hobe Sound, FL · On-site

$12.75 - $14.50/hr

Key Responsibilities • Provide one-on-one and small group surf instruction to members of all ages and skill levels, from first-time beginners to intermediate surfers looking to refine technique • ...

Discovery Land Company

Surf Guide

Hobe Sound, FL · On-site

$12.75 - $14.50/hr

Key Responsibilities Provide one-on-one and small group surf instruction to members of all ages and skill levels, from first-time beginners to intermediate surfers looking to refine technique Conduct ...

Bay County

Surf Rescue Specialsit

Panama City, FL · On-site

$43K - $75K/yr

Monitors changes in surf conditions. Enforces County ordinances and policies. Assists with the maintenance of the Beach Warning Flags system and educates the public about the flag warning system for ...

Surf Style

Key Holder

Panama City Beach, FL · On-site

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

Key Holder Position Surf Style Retail Management, Inc. ("Surf Style") is the leading chain of beachwear, souvenir, gourmet market and liquor retail stores in the Southeastern United States. Our ...

The Surf Club Restaurant

Receiver

Surfside, FL

$15 - $19/hr

Chef Thomas Keller's Surfside destination, The Surf Club Restaurant , is seeking talented individuals who are enthusiastic about food, beverage and hospitality to join the culinary brigade as a ...

The Surf Club Restaurant

Commis

Surfside, FL

$17 - $20/hr

Chef Thomas Keller's Surfside destination, The Surf Club Restaurant , is seeking talented individuals who are enthusiastic about food, beverage and hospitality to join the culinary brigade as a ...

Surf Style

Key Holder

Clearwater Beach, FL · On-site

$13 - $16.25/hr

Key Holder Position Surf Style Retail Management, Inc. ("Surf Style") is the leading chain of beachwear, souvenir, gourmet market and liquor retail stores in the Southeastern United States. Our ...

The Surf Club Restaurant

Receiver

Surfside, FL

$15 - $19/hr

Chef Thomas Keller's Surfside destination, The Surf Club Restaurant , is seeking talented individuals who are enthusiastic about food, beverage and hospitality to join the culinary brigade as a ...

The Surf Club Restaurant

Commis

Surfside, FL

Chef Thomas Keller's Surfside destination, The Surf Club Restaurant , is seeking talented individuals who are enthusiastic about food, beverage and hospitality to join the culinary brigade as a ...

Zula Surf Company

Be Seen First

Key Holder/Sales Lead

Saint Augustine, FL

$13 - $14.75/hr

We want someone who is proactive, has a yearning to learn all about the surf industry, who has excellent customer service skills, loves making relationships with our regular customers, and excellent ...

Zula Surf Company

Be Seen First

Key Holder/Sales Lead

Saint Augustine, FL

$13 - $14.75/hr

We want someone who is proactive, has a yearning to learn all about the surf industry, who has excellent customer service skills, loves making relationships with our regular customers, and excellent ...

The Surf Club Restaurant

Pastry Chef de Partie

Surfside, FL

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Join Chef Thomas Keller's renowned Florida destination, The Surf Club Restaurant, as a Pastry Chef de Partie. In this role, you will work under the guidance of the Pastry Chef, overseeing assigned ...

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All JobsSurf JobsSurf Jobs in Florida

Surf information

See Florida salary details

$6

$16

$37

How much do surf jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for surf in Florida is $16.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.53 and $19.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surf instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surf Instructor, you need excellent swimming ability, surf proficiency, and often a certification such as the International Surfing Association (ISA) instructor credential. Familiarity with safety protocols, first aid/CPR certification, and knowledge of local surf conditions are also essential. Outstanding communication, patience, and motivational skills help instructors effectively teach and encourage students of varying skill levels. These skills ensure safe, enjoyable, and productive surf lessons that foster student progress and confidence.

What is the difference between Surf vs Lifeguard?

AspectSurfLifeguard
Required CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification, Surf Instructor CertificationCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentBeaches, surf schools, water parksBeaches, pools, water parks, aquatic facilities
Industry UsageSurfing schools, water sports centersPublic beaches, private pools, aquatic safety services
Job FocusTeaching surfing, ensuring safety during surf activitiesMonitoring water safety, rescuing swimmers, enforcing safety rules

While both roles involve water safety, a Surf primarily focuses on teaching and guiding surfing activities, whereas a Lifeguard is responsible for monitoring overall water safety and rescuing swimmers. The certifications overlap but differ slightly in scope, with Surf roles emphasizing surf instruction and Lifeguard roles emphasizing rescue skills.

What are some common challenges faced by surf instructors and how can they overcome them?

Surf instructors often encounter challenges such as varying student skill levels, unpredictable ocean conditions, and maintaining student safety. To overcome these, instructors must adapt their teaching methods for beginners and advanced learners, stay vigilant about changing tides and weather, and prioritize clear communication about safety protocols. Building strong rapport with students and staying updated on local surf conditions both contribute to a positive and effective learning environment.

What is a surf instructor?

Surf instructors are professionals who teach individuals or groups how to surf, focusing on techniques, safety, and ocean awareness. They provide guidance on paddling, standing up on the board, and reading waves, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning environment. Many surf instructors are experienced surfers themselves and often work at surf schools, resorts, or as independent coaches. Their goal is to help students progress from beginners to confident surfers while emphasizing water safety and respect for the ocean.

What are the qualifications to get a surf job?

The primary qualifications for a surf job depend on the position. Retail sales positions usually require little or no education, though employers prefer applicants who are already familiar with surfing products and culture. Becoming a surfing teacher requires expert-level surfing skills and the ability to manage a classroom, but these positions rarely require special certification. Special roles, such as filming while surfing or taking photographs of other surfers doing stunts, often require a bachelor's degree and several years of experience. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of a surf job requires excellent communication skills, swimming skills, physical fitness, and the ability to memorize and follow safety and emergency procedures.

More about Surf jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Surf jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Surf jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Surf jobs in Florida? For Surf jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surf jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Surf jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Surf jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Surf job openings:
Surf jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surf job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,310 per year, or $16 per hour.

Surf Rescue Specialsit

Bay County, FL

FL • On-site

$43K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Salary : $43,035.20 - $75,337.60 Annually
Location : Bay County, FL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2053
Department: Surf Rescue
Opening Date: 08/04/2026
Closing Date: 8/8/2026 11:59 PM Central
EEO: Bay County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity and pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, or parental status.
*Salary/Hourly wages are determined by verifiable experience.
Nature of Work
GradeJob ClassWork CompEEO Class/CodeTier StatusB80-5aNon-Supervisory90153/Technician1
This is a skilled and technical non-fire officer position within the firefighting and emergency medical series. Employees within this class engage directly in water safety of the County public beaches, safe operation of apparatus and equipment and life safety related tasks. This position involves the responsibility for safe operation of emergency apparatus and watercraft and responsibilities as the assisting in the administration of emergency scene operations. This position may be assigned to shift work, and off-duty call back provision for special situations. The work schedule includes holidays, weekends, weekdays, and may include duty lengths in excess of twenty-four hours. Employees in this class work under the immediate supervision of the Beach & Surf Rescue Captain; however considerable independent judgment and initiative is exercised in carrying out the daily requirements of the job.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
  • Performs professional open water rescues and assisting with distressed swimmers.
  • Cautions swimmers regarding unsafe areas or conditions.
  • Monitors changes in surf conditions.
  • Enforces County ordinances and policies.
  • Assists with the maintenance of the Beach Warning Flags system and educates the public about the flag warning system for rip currents or hazardous marine life.
  • Assumes responsibility for completion of daily checklists of apparatus and daily logs and readiness of all Beach & Surf Rescue apparatus and equipment when assigned.
  • Operates and assures readiness of assigned Beach & Surf Rescue apparatus and associated documentation pertaining to equipment; provides performance feedback and assists officers in normal duties.
  • Performs varied station, apparatus, and equipment maintenance including washing, polishing, and minor repairs.
  • Performs emergency medical responder (EMR) functions to the sick and injured until EMS arrives and assumes patient care, which include patient assessment, vital signs, effective CPR, and other operations to treat sick or injured patients at the EMR level.
  • Responds to emergencies on the beach and surrounding areas, initiates command of incidents when necessary and forwards information to the proper authorities.
  • Assumes responsibility for safe mitigation of emergency scenes utilizing accepted life safety standards.
  • Assumes responsibility for the safety of personnel and the public on emergency scenes when in command.
  • Participates and may assist in teaching field and classroom training exercises designed to maintain and enhance the knowledge, skills, and abilities of Department of Emergency Services personnel including volunteers.
  • Studies maps of jurisdictional areas to ensure familiarity with health care facilities and residential/commercial properties.
  • Abides by all rules and regulations prescribed by Bay County, the Department of Emergency Services, and Fire Rescue Division.
  • Operates and assures readiness of assigned fire and EMS apparatus and associated documentation.
  • Assists in the logistics, maintenance and other needs for the Department of Emergency Services when needed.
  • The employer may add to or change duties at any time and as determined by the County and its leaders to best ensure that the public is served through the work of the Department.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Possess a high school diploma or the equivalent; AND
  • Employment will be contingent upon the applicant obtaining the required certifications within one (1) month of employment.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • A comparable amount of training and/or experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications except for required certification and examination.
Licenses and/or Certifications
  • Possession of or ability to obtain and maintain a valid Florida driver license upon offer of employment with a driving record acceptable to the County Driving Policy and insurance program.
  • Employment will be contingent upon the applicant obtaining the below required certifications within one (1) month of hire as a condition of employment:
    • Must meet the standards of the (USLA) United States Lifesaving Association's Open Water Lifeguard Training.
    • Possession of an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) Certificate.
    • Must pass required swim test (500 meter/550 yards swim in under 10 minutes), physical, and drug screening.
    • Must pass physical exam conducted by qualified MD or DO stating applicant is able to perform duties of an open water rescue swimmer, and FF and/or EMT.
  • Possession and maintain a USLA Open Water Lifeguard Certification.
  • Possession and maintain an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) Certification.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills
  • Knowledge of policies and procedures of Bay County, the Department of Emergency Services, and the Fire Rescue Division.
  • Knowledge of fire and EMS apparatus operation, equipment maintenance, and operating procedures.
  • Extensive driving skills and knowledge of streets within assigned jurisdictional area.
  • Knowledge of project management and organizational skills.
  • Ability to have excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work and maintain reliable full-time attendance.
  • Ability to comprehend, speak, and read the English language.
  • Ability to have and maintain good interpersonal and communication skills to deal with the public.
  • Ability to read map books and make sound judgments under extreme pressure.
  • Ability to communicate well with other employees and the public.
  • Ability to react quickly and make critical life safety and property preservation related decisions under extreme pressure and in the absence of direction from a Superior Officer.
Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions
Work is primarily performed outdoors and requires some exposure to environmental changes (e.g., outdoor weather and/or field conditions, warehouses, garages, etc.) or irate customers, extreme noise, odors, heights and/or dust. The employee may be required to perform in high humidity and in elevated temperatures as well as limited access, enclosed spaces. While performing the duties of this class, employees are regularly required to use written and oral communication skills; read and interpret data, information and documents; analyze and solve problems; use math and mathematical reasoning; observe and interpret situations; learn and apply new information or skills; and interact with County staff, other organizations and the public.
Work is often performed in emergency and stressful situations. Individual is exposed to hearing alarms and hazards associated with fighting fires and rendering emergency medical assistance, including smoke, noxious odors, fumes, chemicals, liquid chemicals, solvents and oils.
This position requires some exposure or risk to physical health and/or physical safety (e.g., exposure to environmentally hazardous material, heavy equipment, etc.). This position requires the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and includes completing and successfully passing medical evaluations and/or clearances.
Stooping, sitting, crouching, walking, pulling, lifting, grasping, hearing, seeing up close, seeing far away, kneeling, reaching, pulling, talking, standing, finger movement, repetitive motions, depth perception. Ability to lift and carry patients weighing in excess of 250 pounds, with assistance, without causing harm or aggravating injuries to the patient or themselves. Lifts people and equipment of 100+ pounds; extensive, or considerable standing/walking; Lifts positions, pushes and/or transfers patients; lifts supplies/equipment; manual dexterity and mobility; intermittent exertion when performing treatments.
Work Location
Not Eligible for Remote Work - This position is assigned to a county worksite. Due to the non-portable nature of the essential functions of this position, this position is not eligible for telework.

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