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Water Rescue Jobs in Saint Louis, MO (NOW HIRING)

Life Guard

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Responsibilities include water rescue, first aid, CPR, and ensuring members safely engage in aquatic activities. Qualifications Minimum Requirements * Must be at least 18 years old * Minimum of three ...

... water rescue. This person should be able to easily learn department policies and procedures, including pool operation guidelines and principles and the use of pool chemicals. Availability to work ...

... water rescue. This person should be able to easily learn department policies and procedures, including pool operation guidelines and principles and the use of pool chemicals. Availability to work ...

... water rescue. This person should be able to easily learn department policies and procedures, including pool operation guidelines and principles and the use of pool chemicals. Availability to work ...

... water rescue. This person should be able to easily learn department policies and procedures, including pool operation guidelines and principles and the use of pool chemicals. Availability to work ...

... 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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Water Rescue information

See Saint Louis, MO salary details

$13

$22

$33

How much do water rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for water rescue in Saint Louis, MO is $22.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $25.00 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 Saint Louis, MO?

For Water Rescue jobs in Saint Louis, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Water Rescue job openings in Saint Louis, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,899 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Part-Time Fire Science Instructor

Southwestern Illinois College

Belleville, IL • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago


Southwestern Illinois College rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

150th of 623 rated colleges and universities


Job description

ANNOUNCEMENT
Southwestern Illinois College is accepting applications for part-time instructors for the Fire Science program. Part-time instructors are hired on an as-needed basis. Your application will be placed in a pool for review as part-time teaching assignments become available.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Part-time/adjunct faculty in the Fire Science program are responsible for teaching the objectives for any course assigned, the assessment of student learning, and reporting of student progress as required by the college, the Illinois State Fire Marshall's office and the International Fire Services Accreditation Congress.
QUALIFICATIONS
  1. Meets the minimum instructor requirements for any course assignment; required
  2. Degree and experience requirements vary per course, in general:
    • Certified by the Illinois State Fire Marshall's Office in: Fire Service Officer I & Fire Service Instructor II; required
    • Depending on course content may require additional certification by the Illinois State Fire Marshall's Office in: Fire Apparatus Engineer, Fire Service Officer II, Haz Mat First Responder, Vehicle Rescue Operations, Rope Rescue I & II, Confined Space Rescue I & II, Trench Rescue I & II; Water Rescue I & II.
    • Depending on course content may require additional education in Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science or Bachelor's degree Fire Science related field and
    • Five years fire service experience.
  3. Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills
  4. Competency with multiple instructional delivery methods (on-line, hybrid, web-enhanced, and face to face); preferred.

STARTING PAY AND HOURS
Salary varies based on educational level and number of units taught. Starting rates for the current Academic Year can be viewed on SWIC's Employment page .
BENEFITS & PERKS:
Benefit availability and eligibility may vary from the summary listed below. Please visit www.swic.edu for more information.
  • Retirement savings plan through State Universities Retirement System of Illinois and voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) savings plan
  • Eligibility for medical coverage as outline in the Affordable Care Act
  • Employee Assistance Program, employee discounts, gym access, additional voluntary benefits and more!
WORK LOCATION
Fire Science courses are offered at the SWIC Fire Science Training facility and local fire departments.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications will be reviewed as assignments become available.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Required application materials, such as resume, cover letter and references, should be attached to your application. Other required application materials i.e., transcripts, etc., should be attached after your application has been submitted. Go to your My Job Applications page from the careers home page of your account.
Southwestern Illinois College
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