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Water Rescue Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Sherwood, OR · On-site

... 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 ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Durham, OR · On-site

... 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 ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Tigard, OR · On-site

... 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 Portland, OR

Water Rescue information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$23

$35

How much do water rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for water rescue in Portland, OR is $23.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.38 and $26.59 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 popular job titles related to Water Rescue jobs in Portland, OR?

For Water Rescue jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Rescue jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Rescue jobs in Portland, OR are:

Water Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Rescue job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,067 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Vancouver Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services Lifeguard and Swim Instructor

The City of Vancouver

Vancouver, WA • On-site

$17.13 - $21.39/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

City Of Vancouver rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

344th of 851 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary Range
$17.13 - $21.39Job Summary
Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services is looking for enthusiastic candidates that are skilled in working with all ages and abilities in recreation activities. You will represent the City in a capacity of enforcing program structure and rules that ensure the physical and mental safety of all participants and staff and assisting and/or lead teaching in the swimming pool area. Experience in these fields as well as exceptional customer service and problem solving is desired. Job locations can include Firstenburg Community Center and Marshall Community Center.Job Details
Essential Functions:
  • Communicate and work well with diverse customers of all ages and abilities, and City employee team.
  • Assist in providing a safe program and environment for participants and staff.
  • Understand and implement City of Vancouver values: Compassionate, Collaborative, Inclusive, Innovative, Empowered; policies, and procedures.
  • Perform other duties as required through assigned program.
  • Work a flexible schedule including, days, evenings, holidays and weekends.

Recommended Qualifications:
  • Current CPR/First Aid card required within 30 days of employment, offered by City of Vancouver.
  • Able to always maintain a calm and professional demeanor, including during emergencies.
  • Maintain a professional appearance, adhere to dress code, and provide excellent customer service.
  • Successful completion of a background check for applicants 18 and older.
  • Successfully pass employment references.

Physical Requirements:
  • Some heavy lifting.
  • Working outdoors and exposure to weather elements.

Abilities:
  • Respond quickly and effectively in an emergency and report all accidents, injuries and safety health hazards according to City guidelines.
  • Establish and maintain effective work relationships with the public, program participants, other city employees.
  • Monitor and interact with a large, diverse group of participants while multitasking duties and expectations.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to listen and carry-out instructions both written and verbal.
  • Comply with policies and procedures of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services programs/area of assignment.
  • Successfully complete training/certification as required by department or position.
Qualifications
Lifeguard $17.13-21.39
  • Must be 16 years or older.
  • $300 training bonus after completing all training and orientation
  • Knowledge of safe swimming rules and regulations.
  • Able to protect the life and wellbeing of each person using the aquatics facility at a given time.
  • Able to learn, maintain knowledge of and carry out facility-established emergency procedures.
  • Able to always keep physically fit and mentally alert to respond to any emergency.
  • Able and willing to perform water rescue techniques.
  • You will need to attend all staff meetings, orientations, and in-service training.
  • Tentative training dates: May 27 - 31

Qualifications:
  • Ellis & Associates Pool Lifeguard Certification (maintained as current throughout employment)
  • Able to locate and operate all emergency equipment, including backboard, oxygen and AED
  • Able to tow a guest in distress to safety
  • Able to successfully complete a swim test consisting of: swimming 200 yards in with a front facing stroke without stopping, treading water for 2 minutes without use of hands, diving feet first to 9 feet, picking up a 10 lb brick and bringing it to the surface while showing that you have control.

Swim Instructor $17.56-21.39
  • Must be 16 years or older.
  • $300 training bonus after completing all training and orientation.
  • Teach skills that may save a life and will make a huge difference in people's lives.
  • Will work with ages six (6) months to senior citizen and teach them how to be safe on, in and around the water.
  • Help participants build lifelong safety skills, build strength and endurance for swimming laps, competitively or just for having fun in the water.
  • Responsible for providing a safe aquatic experience to all participants.
  • Monitor the pool environment and assure that all pool users are safely following pool rules. helping to perform routine cleaning and maintenance duties in the pool and locker room areas.

Qualifications:
  • Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Certification (maintained as current throughout employment)
  • Able to monitor and maintain the safety of several children at a time, from the point of drop off to pick up.
  • Able to safely pickup, hold, and lift a child from the deck and in the water.
  • Able to successfully complete a swim test consisting of swimming 25 yards of each of these strokes: freestyle, backstroke, sidestroke, elementary backstroke, breaststroke, swimming 15 yards of butterfly and swimming at least 100 yards without stopping
Job Posting End Date
Open Until Filled

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