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Water Rescue Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Arden, DE

... waters, flight lines, ship decks, and austere field sites; continuous training and qualification ... Rescue Swimmer preparatory and Rescue Swimmer School for those in that specialty; Class A School in ...

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All JobsWater Rescue JobsWater Rescue Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Water Rescue information

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$34

How much do water rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for water rescue in Philadelphia, PA is $22.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $25.96 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 Philadelphia, PA?

The most popular types of Water Rescue jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Rescue jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

For Water Rescue jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Rescue jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Rescue jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Water Rescue jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Water Rescue job openings:

Water Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Rescue job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,639 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Shallow Water Guard/Lifeguard

Langhorne, PA • On-site

Sesame Place Philadelphia
See more jobs at Sesame Place Philadelphiaexternal

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Join us at Sesame Place and help bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories to people from around the world. We're seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and hard-working individuals to become our Ambassadors. Come and play an important part on our incredible team today!

What you get to do:

If you're a skilled and experienced swimmer with a passion for protecting and saving others, we invite you to join us as a Lifeguard and deliver the peace of mind that ensures a memorable and positive experience for our guests. You will learn new skills and become part of a close-knit team of highly motivated individuals. You will be responsible for maintaining a fun and safe environment for guests of all ages to enjoy our water attractions! You will also:

  • Provide exemplar/ service to guests and team members
  • Maintain patron surveillance on water attractions that are 0-5 feet in depth
  • Responsible for all aspects of safety on all water activities, including bottoms of waterslides and activity pools
  • Work as a team to ensure efficiency on all water attractions
  • Prevent and respond to emergencies
  • Participate in American Red Cross and SeaWorld audit processes
  • Attend in-service meetings and cross-train to work in other park areas
  • Communicate professionally and effectively with Ambassadors, Vendors and our Guests

What It takes to succeed:

  • At least 15 years of age
  • Flexibility to perform varied duties
  • You will need to successfully complete the Shallow Water Guard swim test, including 100 yd, continuous swim, underwater object retrieval, and 2-minute tread using only the legs
  • You must successfully pass the company provided and paid American Red Cross lifeguard certification trainings to include First Aid, CPR, and AED. Maintain the ability to pass a SEA swim test throughout the season
  • You must maintain an acceptable level of proficiency of park knowledge, water rescue, CPR/AED, and First Aid Skills

What else is important:

  • Must be able to act responsibly with a high attention to safety
  • Must be able to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50Ibs
  • Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift
  • Perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)
  • Perform cleaning duties, including use of cleaning chemicals
  • Must be willing to comply with alt SEA grooming guidelines and employment standards
  • Must be able to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat
  • Must provide flexible, consistent availability (including nights, weekends and holidays) and adhere to our 2026 Holiday and Availability agreement.
  • Consistently practice safe work habits including the use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and reporting unsafe situations
  • Ability to successfully complete all legal, company and department training requirements within established timelines

The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:

  • FREE park admission
  • Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Exclusive employee events and giveaways
     

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, GENDER, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

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