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Water Patrol Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Patrol county lakes, rivers, and waterways using assigned patrol vessels. * Enforce Michigan marine ... Respond to boating accidents, emergencies, water rescues, distress calls, and public complaints.

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Unarmed Guard

Federal Way, WA · On-site

$23/hr

The selected individual will patrol and secure assigned premises as well as identify risks to staff ... Report any facility issues such as fire hazards and leaking water pipes * Request emergency ...

MARINE PATROL OFFICER

Gilford, NH · On-site

$23.93 - $31.71/hr

Patrols inland and coastal waters to enforce boating laws, navigation rules, and applicable state criminal statutes. Maintains visibility as a deterrent and responds proactively to unsafe or unlawful ...

Maintenance Worker

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$3.2K - $4.1K/mo

... watering, planting and maintaining ornamental plantings; maintains the parking lot and keeps ... HIGHWAY PATROL Additional Documents * Job Application Package Checklist * Duty Statement Position ...

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The selected individual will patrol and secure assigned premises as well as identify risks to staff ... Report any facility issues such as fire hazards and leaking water pipes * Request emergency ...

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We are seeking a Night Rover Patrol Officer to become an integral part of our team. The selected ... Report any facility issues such as fire hazards and leaking water pipes. * Request emergency ...

Dormitory Patrol

Cambridge, MA

$17.75 - $20.50/hr

DORMITORY PATROL , Housing and Residential Services , to monitor the dormitories, enforce security ... flooding, water discharge, hazardous materials, and other incidents by contacting emergency ...

Dormitory Patrol

Cambridge, MA

$17.75 - $20.50/hr

DORMITORY PATROL , Housing and Residential Services , to monitor the dormitories, enforce security ... flooding, water discharge, hazardous materials, and other incidents by contacting emergency ...

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Water Patrol information

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$13

$20

$23

How much do water patrol jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for water patrol in the United States is $20.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water patrol officer?

Water Patrol officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for ensuring safety and enforcing laws on lakes, rivers, and other waterways. Their duties include patrolling bodies of water, inspecting boats for compliance with safety regulations, responding to emergencies, and assisting in search and rescue operations. They also educate the public about boating safety and water regulations to prevent accidents. Water Patrol officers often work for local, state, or federal agencies and must be trained in boating, rescue techniques, and maritime law.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water patrol officer?

To thrive as a Water Patrol Officer, you need a solid understanding of boating laws, water safety, rescue procedures, and typically a background in law enforcement or emergency services. Familiarity with marine navigation systems, communication radios, and certifications like CPR, first aid, and sometimes boating safety licenses are commonly required. Strong situational awareness, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for ensuring public safety, effective enforcement of regulations, and rapid response to emergencies on waterways.

What are some typical challenges that water patrol officers face during their shifts?

Water Patrol officers often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, unpredictable water currents, and navigating crowded waterways, especially during peak recreational seasons. They must remain vigilant to ensure the safety of boaters and swimmers, enforce boating regulations, and respond quickly to emergencies like accidents or stranded vessels. Effective communication and teamwork with other officers and emergency responders are crucial, as is maintaining a calm demeanor while handling potentially stressful situations.

What is the difference between Water Patrol vs Lifeguard?

AspectWater PatrolLifeguard
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Water SafetyCPR, First Aid, Water Safety
Work EnvironmentMarinas, docks, water patrol boatsPools, beaches, water parks
Employer & IndustryMaritime, waterfront authoritiesPublic pools, beaches, resorts
Primary RoleEnforce water safety laws, patrol water areasEnsure swimmer safety, rescue, prevent accidents

Water Patrol and Lifeguard roles both require water safety certifications and involve working in aquatic environments. Water Patrol typically focuses on enforcing laws and patrolling water areas, often for maritime authorities, while Lifeguards primarily focus on rescuing and safeguarding swimmers at pools or beaches. Both roles are essential for water safety but differ in work settings and responsibilities.

More about Water Patrol jobs

What cities are hiring for Water Patrol jobs?

Cities with the most Water Patrol job openings:

What states have the most Water Patrol jobs?

States with the most job openings for Water Patrol jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Water Patrol jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Patrol jobs are:

Infographic showing various Water Patrol job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,548 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

Under the general supervision of the Sheriff or designated supervisor, the Marine Patrol Deputy performs law enforcement and public safety duties on Branch County waterways. Responsibilities include enforcement of marine laws, boating safety regulations, accident investigation, emergency response, public education, and patrol of county lakes and waterways to protect life and property.

Essential Functions

An employee in this position may be called upon to perform any or all of the following essential duties. These examples do not include all tasks which the employee may be expected to perform.

  • Patrol county lakes, rivers, and waterways using assigned patrol vessels.
  • Enforce Michigan marine safety laws, boating regulations, and applicable criminal statutes.
  • Conduct vessel inspections, safety checks, and boating compliance enforcement.
  • Respond to boating accidents, emergencies, water rescues, distress calls, and public complaints.
  • Investigate marine accidents and incidents; prepare reports and maintain documentation.
  • Issue citations, warnings, and make arrests in accordance with departmental policies and state law.
  • Monitor waterways for impaired boating, reckless operation, overcrowding, and unsafe conditions.
  • Assist in search and rescue, water recovery, and emergency management operations.
  • Educate boaters and the public on boating safety, navigation rules, life jacket requirements, and water safety best practices.
  • Provide law enforcement presence during holidays, special events, fireworks, tournaments, and other high-traffic periods.
  • Inspect, clean, fuel, and maintain assigned marine patrol equipment, vessels, trailers, radios, and safety gear.
  • Coordinate with local law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, DNR, and emergency response agencies.
  • Attend training and maintain required certifications.
  • Testify in court as necessary.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Valid Michigan driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain boating safety certification.
  • CPR, First Aid, and AED certification or ability to obtain within established timeframe.
  • Ability to swim and perform water rescue functions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior law enforcement or corrections experience.
  • Prior marine patrol, boating, or water rescue experience.
  • Knowledge of Michigan boating laws and marine safety regulations.
  • Experience operating boats, trailers, and marine equipment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of law enforcement principles, criminal law, and marine regulations.
  • Ability to safely operate patrol boats under varying weather and water conditions.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency and enforcement situations.
  • Strong communication and report writing skills.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, elected officials, agencies, and the public.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift, carry, and move equipment up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to board, launch, dock, and operate marine vessels.
  • Ability to swim, tread water, and perform rescue-related duties.
  • Ability to sit, stand, bend, climb, kneel, and maneuver on unstable surfaces.

Working Conditions

Work is performed primarily outdoors on county waterways with exposure to sun, heat, cold, rain, wind, water hazards, noise, and fuel-related odors. Evening, weekend, holiday, and emergency response hours are frequently required during boating season.