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Water Rescue Jobs in British Columbia (NOW HIRING)

... Water Rescue (when required) Ice Rescue (when required) Required Work Experience 2 + years of relevant industry experience is an asset By joining International SOS, you will contribute to a global ...

Restoration Technician

Kelowna, BC · On-site

CA$50K - CA$75K/yr

We help rescue homes. We put businesses back on their feet. We help clients get back to their lives ... Responsibilities include · Determining the category of water and the class of loss as well as ...

Water Rescue information

See British Columbia salary details

$8

$24

$43

How much do water rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for water rescue in British Columbia is $24.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the water rescue position, and why are they important?

To excel in Water Rescue, individuals typically need strong swimming ability, physical stamina, and knowledge of water safety, usually complemented by certifications such as lifeguard training, first aid, and CPR. Familiarity with rescue equipment (e.g., rescue boards, flotation devices, radios) and emergency response systems is crucial. Outstanding teamwork, communication skills, and quick decision-making set top performers apart in this high-stakes environment. These competencies are critical for ensuring fast, effective responses in emergencies and for safeguarding lives in aquatic settings.

What is a water rescue?

A Water Rescue job involves responding to emergencies in aquatic environments, such as lakes, rivers, or oceans, to save individuals in distress. Rescuers may work with lifeguards, firefighters, or specialized teams to perform swift water rescues, ice rescues, or flood evacuations. The role requires strong swimming skills, knowledge of rescue techniques, and emergency medical training. Water Rescue professionals often work in high-risk conditions and must be prepared to act quickly to prevent drowning or other water-related emergencies.

What are some common challenges faced by water rescue professionals and how are they addressed?

Water Rescue professionals often encounter unpredictable weather conditions, rapidly changing water environments, and situations that require split-second decision-making. They address these challenges through ongoing training, regular practice drills, and teamwork, which help prepare them for a wide range of scenarios. Additionally, clear communication protocols and close collaboration with local emergency services help ensure efficient and effective rescues. Being adaptable and maintaining composure under pressure are essential to overcoming these common obstacles and successfully aiding those in need.

How do I become a water rescue?

To become a water rescue professional, you typically need to complete specialized training in water rescue techniques, such as swift water or open water rescue, and obtain relevant certifications like Lifeguard or Water Rescue Technician certification. Physical fitness, swimming skills, and knowledge of safety protocols are essential, and some roles may require emergency medical training or first aid certification.
What are popular job titles related to Water Rescue jobs in British Columbia? For Water Rescue jobs in British Columbia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Rescue jobs in British Columbia look for? The top searched job categories for Water Rescue jobs in British Columbia are:
Infographic showing various Water Rescue job openings in British Columbia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,886 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Operations - Medical Services 1

International SOS

Kitimat, BC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

At International SOS, we are in the business of protecting and saving lives. For 40 years, we have delivered customised security risk management, health, and wellbeing solutions to organisations worldwide. With a presence in 90 countries and a team of nearly 13,000 experts, we provide 24/7 support to help organisations fulfil their Duty of Care responsibilities.

Now, we're looking for talented individuals to join our team and make a difference.

The Package
What's in It for You?
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Health, vision, and dental coverage, plus emergency travel assistance, virtual care, life insurance, long-term disability, and an employee assistance program.
  • Retention Bonus: Your commitment pays off-literally.
  • All Gear Provided: Uniforms and PPE supplied for client sites, so you're ready from day one.
  • Grow Your Career: Access to continuing education and professional development opportunities.
  • Earn More Through Referrals: Bring great people on board and get rewarded.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Performs emergency and non-emergency duties under the direction of Fire Officers of an assigned fire and rescue team.

Complete daily tasks and assignments under the direction of fire officers of the assigned fire and rescue team.

Maintain a respectful work environment by demonstrating positive workplace behaviour.

Comply with company policies regarding conduct, uniform, dress, and appearance.

Attend required meetings including daily start-of-shift meetings.

Participate in fire and rescue training.

Assist with the onboarding of new hires by acting as a mentor to those members as they work towards the completion of their induction package.

Perform inspections and maintenance of fire and rescue apparatus, equipment, and other client assets.

Maintain the cleanliness of fire and rescue apparatus, equipment, and facilities.

Keep up to date with site-specific fire and rescue guidelines and procedures, rescue plans, and pre-incident plans.

Complete required fire and rescue training courses.

Complete required International SOS continuing education modules.

Perform administrative duties that may be requested by the fire officers.

Ensure International SOS is represented in a positive and professional manner when interacting with the client and other contractors on site.

Carry out tasks assigned by the officer-in-charge of fire and rescue operations.

Ensure his or her tasks are performed in accordance with International SOS Fire and Rescue emergency operations policies and guidelines.

Identify emergency scene hazards and report those hazards to the incident commander or the officer-in-charge.

Complete tactical assignments and ensure the plan of action is followed in a safe and efficient manner.

Ensure assigned tasks are within their own scope and capabilities.

Participate in the post-incident analysis or debrief.

When required, participate in the incident investigation.

Description:

Required Skills and Knowledge

Standard First Aid and CPR with AED (current)

Drivers License Class 5 (class 4 or higher preferred)

NFPA 1001 Level 2

NFPA 1072 or 472 Hazardous Materials Response - Operations Level (minimum)

NFPA 1002 Driver Operator

NFPA 1006 High Angle Rescue - Operations Level (minimum) or;

NFPA 1006 Confined Space Rescue - Operations Level (minimum)

ICS 100, 200

CSTS

H2S Awareness

Fall Protection

Confined Space Entry

Site-Specific Requirements as Indicated at Hire Date (i.e. orientation, physical, WHMIS, TDG, etc.)

NFPA 1002 Aerial Operator (preferred but not essential)

NFPA 1006 Vehicle and Machinery Technician (when required)

NFPA 1051 Wildland Firefighting (when required)

Surface Water Rescue (when required)

Ice Rescue (when required)

Required Competencies 

The ability to apply and maintain safety standards.

The ability to follow direction and the chain of command.

The ability to accept responsibility, to make decisions, and to motivate co-workers toward a coordinated effort.

The ability to work effectively with co-workers, other contractors, and the client.

The ability to establish and maintain effective interpersonal relationships with co-workers, other contractors, and the client.

The ability to act effectively in emergency and stressful situations.

Strong communication skills, both orally and written.

Basic computer skills that include knowledge of Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and Word.

Required Work Experience 

2 + years of relevant industry experience is an asset

By joining International SOS, you will contribute to a global network dedicated to protecting people and organisations. We offer a dynamic and respectful workplace where expertise, innovation, and collaboration drive our success.

13,000 experts | 1,200+ locations | 90 countries | 110+ languages

Start your journey with us today. Apply now!