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Water Rescue Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Completes fire control and rescue operations by establishing scene safety; locates hydrants and other sources for water; forces entry into structures; enters burning structures; utilizes systematic ...

... Swift Water Rescue Technician NWCG S130, S190, L180 Supplemental Requirements: Successful passing of a pre-employment physical agility exam Successful passing of a pre-employment drug screening ...

Lifeguard

Cullowhee, NC · On-site

$11.75 - $15/hr

Maintain all required certifications and training, including but not limited to: first aid, CPR and all water rescue techniques, American Red Cross Lifeguarding. * Assist the Parks and Recreation ...

Lifeguard

Sylva, NC · On-site

$35K/yr

Maintain all required certifications and training, including but not limited to: first aid, CPR and all water rescue techniques, American Red Cross Lifeguarding. Assist the Parks and Recreation ...

... and water rescue incidents. Maintain apparatus, equipment, and facilities for response. Assist area fire departments with pre-fire planning, comprehensive fire/rescue training and other support ...

Firefighter II

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$16.36 - $18.90/hr

Perform duties related to emergency operations involving fire suppression, hazardous materials incidents as well as perform technical rescues involving vehicle extrication, surface and water rescue ...

Lifeguard

Sylva, NC · On-site

$35K/yr

Maintain all required certifications and training, including but not limited to: first aid, CPR and all water rescue techniques, American Red Cross Lifeguarding. * Assist the Parks and Recreation ...

Approved water rescue methods and specific medical first aid techniques Public safety and security Customer and personal service Skills: Swimming, lifesaving, and medical aid Speaking and active ...

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Water Rescue information

See North Carolina salary details

$12

$20

$31

How much do water rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for water rescue in North Carolina is $20.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $23.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 to get certified in water rescue?

To become certified in water rescue, individuals typically complete a recognized training program such as the Water Rescue Technician certification offered by organizations like the American Red Cross or the National Water Safety Congress. These courses include classroom instruction, practical skills training, and assessments, often requiring candidates to demonstrate swimming proficiency and physical fitness. Certification usually needs renewal every few years through refresher courses or continuing education.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Rescue jobs in North Carolina?

The most popular types of Water Rescue jobs in North Carolina are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Rescue jobs in North Carolina?

For Water Rescue jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Rescue jobs in North Carolina look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Rescue jobs in North Carolina are:

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Water Rescue jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Water Rescue job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Rescue job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 7% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,905 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Part-Time Public Safety Officer (Various Specialties)

Southport, NC • On-site

Bald Head Island
Police Protection • 1 - 10 employees

$25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

The Village of Bald Head Island considers applications for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. General Statement of Duties Open until filled Performs responsible work in fire suppression OR emergency medical and rescue services OR law enforcement to protect the lives and property of the Village. Employees may serve in one OR multiple specialties based on certifications and experience.

Distinguishing Features of the Class Fire suppression OR fire education OR hazardous materials response Emergency medical care OR rescue operations (including water rescue) Law enforcement duties Work requires good judgment, initiative, and calm control in emergencies. Employees work as part of a team during calls and maintain facilities, equipment, and apparatus throughout their shift. Duties involve frequent public contact requiring strong communication skills and tact.

Essential Duties and Tasks Respond to fire OR EMS OR law enforcement calls. Operate fire apparatus OR medical units OR patrol vehicles OR boats. Perform firefighting OR hazardous materials remediation OR water rescue OR law enforcement patrol and investigations.

Provide emergency medical care within certification scope OR assist EMS teams. Prepare accurate reports and maintain records. Participate in training OR pre-incident planning OR public education programs.

Maintain equipment and station readiness. Additional Job Duties Performs related duties and tasks as required. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of fire suppression OR EMS OR law enforcement principles.

Ability to act with sound judgment in routine and emergency situations. Effective communication skills utilizing active listening to promote community engagement. Teamwork skills.

Ability to prepare clear reports and testify effectively in court (if applicable). Physical ability to perform heavy work and rescue operations. Physical Requirements Must be able to physically perform the basic life functions of standing, walking, bending, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, fingering, feeling, talking, hearing and performing repetitive motions.

Must be able to perform heavy work exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Must possess visual acuity to size up the color, volume, and extent of a fire involvement at fire scenes, to operate heavy fire apparatus and other machinery in emergency and non-emergency situations, and to prepare detailed records and reports. Must possess the visual acuity to operate a vehicle and distinguish details and differences when observing people, places or things.

Desirable Experience and Education Graduation from high school supplemented by training courses in firefighting or emergency management and experience working as a firefighter or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Special Requirements Valid North Carolina driver's license. Firefighter Certification OR NC Law Enforcement Certification OR EMT/Paramedic Certification.

NIMS 100, 200, and 700 certificates. Additional specialty certifications preferred. Special Note: This generic class description gives an overview of the job class, essential job functions, and recommended job requirements.

However, for each individual position assigned to this class, there is available a completed job questionnaire with a physical abilities checklist which can give further details about that one specific position. Those documents should be reviewed before initiating a selection process. They can provide additional detailed information on which to base various personnel actions and can assist management in making legal and defensible personnel decisions.