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Water Rescue Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Employees within this class engage directly in water safety of the County public beaches, safe ... Operates and assures readiness of assigned Beach & Surf Rescue apparatus and associated ...

New

Lifeguard P/T

Opa Locka, FL · On-site

$14/hr

Knowledge of approved water rescue methods and specific first aid techniques * Ability to learn rules and regulations relating to pool activities rapidly and to exercise tact, firmness, and good ...

New

Lifeguard- Pool & Beach

Palm Beach, FL · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

... water rescue techniques. - Inspect and maintain all lifeguard equipment and ensure it is in proper working order. - Report any issues or incidents promptly to the appropriate supervisor or manager ...

New

LIFEGUARD (55622)

Cocoa Beach, FL · On-site

$15.32/hr

Must be physically able to perform water rescue on patrons. Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods. Must be able to work outdoors in extreme weather conditions. Must be able to perform ...

Lifeguard, Part Time

Wellington, FL · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

Performs emergency water rescue duties to assist individuals in distress; applies rescue breathing and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques where necessary; administers first aid.

New

Lifeguard- Pool & Beach

Palm Beach, FL · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

... water rescue techniques. - Inspect and maintain all lifeguard equipment and ensure it is in proper working order. - Report any issues or incidents promptly to the appropriate supervisor or manager ...

LIFEGUARD (55622)

Cocoa Beach, FL · On-site

$15.32/hr

Must be physically able to perform water rescue on patrons. Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods. Must be able to work outdoors in extreme weather conditions. Must be able to perform ...

LIFEGUARD (55622)

Cocoa Beach, FL · On-site

$15.32/hr

Must be physically able to perform water rescue on patrons. Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods. Must be able to work outdoors in extreme weather conditions. Must be able to perform ...

Lifeguard

Okeechobee, FL · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Ensures orderly behavior of patrons; prevents injury or loss of life of the patrons who are swimming or bathing; rescues those who might be in distress and performs water rescue and prevention ...

Lifeguard

Clewiston, FL · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

Ensures orderly behavior of patrons; prevents injury or loss of life of the patrons who are swimming or bathing; rescues those who might be in distress and performs water rescue and prevention ...

Lifeguard

Immokalee, FL · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Ensures orderly behavior of patrons; prevents injury or loss of life of the patrons who are swimming or bathing; rescues those who might be in distress and performs water rescue and prevention ...

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Water Rescue information

See Florida salary details

$10

$16

$25

How much do water rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for water rescue in Florida is $16.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $19.23 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 the most commonly searched types of Water Rescue jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Water Rescue jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Rescue jobs in Florida? For Water Rescue jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Water Rescue jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Water Rescue job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Rescue job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,280 per year, or $17 per hour.

Surf Rescue Specialsit

Bay County

Panama City, FL

$43K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

*Salary/Hourly wages are determined by verifiable experience. Nature of Work Grade Job Class Work Comp EEO Class/Code Tier Status B80-5a Non-Supervisory 9015 3/Technician 1 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.