Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving world of marine conservation, the role of a Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator has never been more crucial.

As the plight of marine life becomes increasingly urgent, the demand for dedicated individuals who can efficiently coordinate rescue efforts, contribute to conservation initiatives, and advocate for aquatic wildlife grows.

So, what’s truly expected from a Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker striving to understand the true scope of this role,
• A hiring manager laying out the specifications of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of marine animal rescue,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities

Marine Animal Rescue Coordinators work in a challenging environment, often dealing with injured or sick marine animals.

They are tasked with the duty to rescue, rehabilitate, and release these animals while cooperating with various organizations and government agencies.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Coordinating the rescue of distressed marine animals
• Assessing the condition of rescued marine animals and arranging for appropriate medical care
• Implementing rehabilitation and care plans for the rescued marine animals
• Working closely with veterinarians, biologists, and other experts to ensure the best care for the animals
• Maintaining detailed records of each animal’s progress and treatments
• Participating in the release of rehabilitated animals back into their natural habitats
• Communicating and collaborating with local, regional, and national agencies involved in marine animal conservation
• Organizing and facilitating community outreach programs to educate the public about marine conservation
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant animal welfare and conservation laws and regulations
• Assisting with fundraising and grant applications to support the rescue center’s operations

 

Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator to oversee and manage all aspects of marine animal rescue, rehabilitation, and release programs.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in marine biology or a related field and have a passion for the protection of marine wildlife.

The Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator will coordinate emergency responses, manage volunteers, liaise with relevant government departments and not-for-profit organizations, and conduct public education programs.

 

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and participate in emergency marine animal rescue operations
• Manage the rehabilitation and care of rescued marine animals
• Oversee the training and coordination of rescue volunteers
• Develop and maintain relationships with relevant stakeholders such as government departments, marine research organizations, and animal welfare groups
• Prepare and deliver public education programs about marine wildlife protection
• Ensure compliance with all relevant animal welfare regulations and laws
• Conduct regular reporting and data collection for rescue operations
• Participate in fundraising and grant writing activities to support the rescue program

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in marine animal rescue or related field
• Degree in Marine Biology, Animal Science, or a related field
• Experience in the management and training of volunteers
• Strong knowledge of marine animal health and welfare
• Ability to respond to emergency situations and work irregular hours
• Proficiency in data collection and reporting
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development in marine conservation

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator
• Work Environment: This role often involves outdoor work in various weather conditions and can require irregular hours, including nights and weekends, depending on emergency rescue needs.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Marine Conservation.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator Do?

Marine Animal Rescue Coordinators typically work for animal welfare organizations, marine parks, or research institutions.

They can also serve in government agencies that are responsible for wildlife conservation.

Their primary role involves coordinating and implementing rescue operations for marine animals that are injured, sick, or stranded.

They must respond promptly to reports of distressed marine animals, assess the situation, and develop appropriate rescue strategies.

Marine Animal Rescue Coordinators also collaborate with veterinarians and marine biologists to provide immediate care and rehabilitation to rescued animals.

This may include arranging for transport, overseeing treatment procedures, and monitoring recovery.

Part of their role may also involve collecting data on rescued animals for research purposes and contributing to scientific studies on marine life.

In addition to these hands-on tasks, Marine Animal Rescue Coordinators often participate in public outreach and education programs.

They may conduct presentations, prepare educational materials, and work closely with the media to raise awareness about marine conservation issues.

Finally, they are responsible for ensuring all rescue operations adhere to local and international wildlife laws and ethical standards.

 

Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator Qualifications and Skills

A qualified Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong knowledge of marine biology and animal behavior, allowing them to understand and respond to the needs of different marine animals.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise with different groups, including volunteers, marine biologists, veterinary staff, and the public.
• Experience in coordinating rescue operations, which requires strategic planning and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle emergency situations calmly and efficiently.
• Proficiency in using technology, such as GPS and other tracking devices, to locate and monitor marine animals.
• Strong leadership and team management skills to effectively manage and coordinate rescue teams.
• Physical fitness and swimming abilities, as the role may require fieldwork and possibly diving activities.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly assess situations and come up with effective solutions to ensure the safety of the animals and the team.
• Compassion and dedication to the well-being of marine animals, which drives the effort to save and protect them.

 

Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator Experience Requirements

Aspiring Marine Animal Rescue Coordinators often start their careers with a degree in marine biology, animal science, or a related field, where they gain a solid understanding of marine life and ecosystems.

Most employers prefer candidates who have at least 1 to 2 years of experience in animal care or rescue, ideally in a marine environment.

This experience may be obtained through internships, volunteering, or part-time positions at aquariums, zoos, marine parks, or animal rescue organizations.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience in marine animal rescue, rehabilitation, and release are considered highly qualified.

They should have a strong understanding of marine animal behavior, as well as experience in handling a variety of marine species.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have advanced skills in marine animal care, medical treatments, and are capable of coordinating large scale rescues.

They may also have leadership experience, which includes managing volunteers and coordinating with government agencies and other wildlife conservation organizations.

At this level, they may be ready for a managerial or team lead position within the organization.

 

Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator Education and Training Requirements

A Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator typically has a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, zoology, wildlife conservation, or a related field.

They require a fundamental understanding of marine animal biology, habitats, and behaviors.

A background in veterinary sciences may also be advantageous as it could aid in the medical care of rescued marine animals.

Some roles might demand a master’s degree in marine biology or related field, especially those involving research or specialist roles.

Practical experience is highly desirable for this role.

This can be acquired through internships, volunteering, or paid work with marine conservation organizations, animal rescue centers, or marine parks.

Many Marine Animal Rescue Coordinators also undertake further training and certification in areas like marine mammal rescue, wildlife rehabilitation, or scuba diving.

Knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations concerning marine wildlife is crucial.

A high level of physical fitness is often required due to the demanding nature of rescue operations.

Finally, a successful Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator will have strong leadership skills, as they often have to coordinate teams during rescue operations.

 

Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator Salary Expectations

A Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator earns an average salary of $43,000 (USD) per year.

The actual income can differ based on qualifications, years of experience in the field, location, and the funding of the employing organization.

 

Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator need?

A Bachelor’s degree in marine biology, zoology, or a related field is typically required for this role.

Experience in marine animal care, rescue, or rehabilitation is highly desirable.

Certifications in scuba diving, first aid, and animal handling can also be beneficial.

In some regions, a driver’s license may be required.

 

What are the daily duties of a Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator?

Marine Animal Rescue Coordinators may monitor and assess the health of marine animals in their natural habitat, coordinate rescue efforts for stranded or injured marine animals, and oversee their rehabilitation.

They often liaise with other environmental organizations and government bodies, and may also conduct public education programs about marine life conservation.

 

What skills does a Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator need?

This role requires a range of skills including excellent communication and organizational skills to coordinate rescue efforts and liaise with various stakeholders.

Good problem-solving and decision-making skills are needed to respond effectively in emergency situations.

A deep knowledge of marine animal species and their behaviors is crucial, as is physical fitness for fieldwork.

 

What qualities make a good Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator?

A successful Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator is passionate about marine conservation, shows empathy towards animals, and is committed to their welfare.

They need to be calm under pressure, as dealing with injured or distressed animals can be challenging.

Strong leadership skills are also important, as they often lead rescue teams.

 

Is it challenging to become a Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator?

Becoming a Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator can be challenging due to the specific educational requirements and practical experience needed.

The role can also be emotionally taxing as it involves dealing with animals in distress.

However, for those with a passion for marine life and conservation, the role can be extremely rewarding.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we dove deep into what it truly means to be a Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about saving animals.

It’s about safeguarding our marine ecosystems, one animal rescue at a time.

With our comprehensive Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator job description template and real-world examples, you’re poised to make your splash.

But why limit yourself?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next wave to meticulously-crafted listings or polishing your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every rescue mission is a part of the bigger cause.

Let’s preserve our marine life. Together.

How to Become a Marine Animal Rescue Coordinator (Complete Guide)

Easy Does It: Jobs That Prove You Don’t Have to Work Hard to Live Well!

Calm Careers: Jobs That Offer Peace of Mind and a Paycheck

The Rise of Robotic Roles: Jobs AI is Claiming

Where Robots Can’t Reach: Jobs That Remain Human