Marine Rescue Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

marine rescue officer job description

In the vast expanse of the sea, the importance of Marine Rescue Officers is paramount.

As maritime activities progress and challenges arise, there is an increasing demand for skilled individuals who can navigate, safeguard, and manage our marine operations.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from a Marine Rescue Officer?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
  • A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
  • Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of maritime rescue,

You’ve docked at the right port.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Marine Rescue Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Marine Rescue Officers perform a range of tasks related to the safety and rescue of individuals at sea or in other bodies of water.

They work in a variety of environments, often facing challenging weather and sea conditions.

Marine Rescue Officers are primarily responsible for directly assisting in emergency situations, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

  • Respond to distress calls and participate in search and rescue operations
  • Assess the situation and decide on the most effective rescue method
  • Operate rescue equipment and vehicles, such as boats or jet skis
  • Coordinate with other emergency services and provide first aid treatment to individuals in need
  • Carry out water-based patrols and monitor safety conditions
  • Train and lead volunteer rescue crews
  • Participate in drills and other training activities to maintain skills and knowledge
  • Inspect, maintain, and repair rescue equipment and vehicles
  • Document rescue operations and incidents for future reference and evaluation

 

Marine Rescue Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a committed and responsible Marine Rescue Officer to join our team.

The Marine Rescue Officer is responsible for ensuring the safety and protection of people and property in the marine environment.

The successful candidate will have an unwavering commitment to safety, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in high-pressure situations.

 

Responsibilities

  • Perform marine search and rescue operations.
  • Perform preventative patrols and monitor marine conditions for potential hazards.
  • Respond to emergency situations and provide first aid as needed.
  • Inspect vessels for safety compliance and educate boat owners about safety regulations.
  • Assist in the investigation of marine accidents and incidents.
  • Perform routine maintenance and checks on rescue equipment and vehicles.
  • Collaborate with other emergency services during joint operations.
  • Participate in regular training exercises to maintain fitness and rescue skills.

 

Qualifications

  • Previous experience in a marine rescue or similar role is preferred.
  • Qualifications in marine safety, first aid, and rescue operations.
  • Excellent physical fitness and swimming ability.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
  • Good communication and team-working skills.
  • Willingness to work in adverse weather conditions and be on call for emergencies.
  • A valid driver’s license and boat operator’s license.

 

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Life insurance

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Marine Rescue Officer
  • Work Environment: Outdoors in a marine environment. Work may involve exposure to adverse weather conditions and water-based activities.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Marine Rescue Manager or Coast Guard Commander.
  • 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 at our company. 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 Rescue Officer Do?

Marine Rescue Officers primarily work for various maritime organizations, such as the coast guard, navy, or private rescue services.

Their primary duty is to respond to distress calls at sea, which can range from boats or ships in trouble to individuals who may be lost or injured in water bodies.

They are trained to operate various types of rescue boats and vessels, and are proficient in different water rescue techniques.

They also use advanced navigation and communication equipment to locate individuals or vessels in distress.

Marine Rescue Officers are responsible for providing first aid treatment to those rescued until they can be transferred to healthcare professionals.

They also play a key role in preventing accidents at sea by enforcing maritime laws, conducting safety inspections of vessels, and educating boaters and other sea-goers about safety precautions and protocols.

Furthermore, Marine Rescue Officers often work in challenging and unpredictable weather conditions, requiring physical fitness, courage, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.

They also participate in routine training exercises to keep their skills sharp and up-to-date.

 

Marine Rescue Officer Qualifications and Skills

Marine Rescue Officers must possess a range of technical and soft skills to effectively manage their duties, these may include:

  • Strong swimming skills and physical fitness to withstand challenging marine environments and perform rescues.
  • Knowledge of first aid and CPR procedures to provide immediate emergency medical assistance when needed.
  • Proficiency in operating marine rescue equipment, such as lifeboats, jet skis, and other rescue tools.
  • Good observation skills to identify signs of distress, potential dangers and changes in sea conditions.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for coordinating with the rescue team and communicating with victims.
  • Ability to work under pressure and make quick decisions during emergencies.
  • Strong navigation skills to accurately locate people in distress, even in challenging weather or sea conditions.
  • Understanding of relevant marine laws and regulations for safe and legal operations.

 

Marine Rescue Officer Experience Requirements

Marine Rescue Officers typically possess a background in maritime operations, which could include experience in the navy, coast guard, or commercial maritime roles.

Basic experience usually encompasses navigation, safety procedures, and communication systems, with a minimum of 2 to 3 years of experience.

Often, Marine Rescue Officers gain their foundational experience through roles such as Deckhand, Lifeguard, or Boatswain, where they can acquire practical skills in marine safety, rescue procedures, and emergency response.

For more advanced positions, 5 or more years of experience in marine rescue or related fields is usually required.

These roles may involve coordinating rescue operations, training new officers, or managing maritime safety initiatives.

Experience in these areas can often be gained through progression within the marine rescue field, with roles such as Rescue Coordinator or Training Officer providing relevant experience.

Additional qualifications, such as advanced lifesaving certifications, marine radio operator’s qualification, or other maritime safety qualifications, are often required and can supplement on-the-job experience.

 

Marine Rescue Officer Education and Training Requirements

To become a Marine Rescue Officer, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, although a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, oceanography, or a related field is preferable.

In addition, most marine rescue organizations require their officers to have advanced swimming abilities and to complete specialized training in marine rescue techniques.

This training typically covers water rescue operations, navigation, boat handling, and emergency medical skills.

Certification in CPR and first aid is also required, and some employers may require advanced first aid or medical training.

This can be obtained through organizations such as the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.

Experience with maritime operations, such as working on boats or other watercraft, can also be beneficial.

Some marine rescue officers may need to complete additional training or certification in specific areas such as diving, wildlife management, or hazardous materials management, depending on their job responsibilities.

Additionally, continuous learning and training are important in this role due to the evolving nature of marine rescue techniques and the need to stay up-to-date with the latest safety protocols and technology.

 

Marine Rescue Officer Salary Expectations

A Marine Rescue Officer earns an average salary of $50,000 (USD) per year.

This pay rate, however, can vary significantly depending on the experience, specialized training, the agency they work for, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Marine Rescue Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Marine Rescue Officer need?

Marine Rescue Officers need to have strong swimming and diving skills, be physically fit, and have excellent navigational abilities.

They should also be well-trained in emergency medical procedures and lifesaving techniques.

Other important skills include problem-solving, decision-making, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.

They should also have good communication and interpersonal skills for coordinating with other rescue personnel and comforting victims.

 

Do Marine Rescue Officers need a degree?

While a degree is not always mandatory, having one in marine biology, marine engineering, or a related field can be beneficial.

However, it is essential for a Marine Rescue Officer to have appropriate certifications in diving, lifesaving, and first aid.

Experience with boating and knowledge of marine safety regulations are also critical for this role.

 

What should you look for in a Marine Rescue Officer resume?

When reviewing a Marine Rescue Officer’s resume, you should look for certifications in lifesaving, diving, and first aid.

Any experience with marine or coastal rescues would be a significant advantage.

A good candidate should have a strong swimming background and proven experience with boating.

Additionally, look for any evidence of physical fitness, decision-making skills, and the ability to handle stress.

 

What qualities make a good Marine Rescue Officer?

A good Marine Rescue Officer should be physically fit, able to make quick decisions, and remain calm under pressure.

They should also have a strong sense of duty and commitment to safety.

The ability to work well in a team is crucial as they often need to coordinate with other rescue personnel.

Finally, they should be compassionate and supportive, as they often have to deal with victims who may be distressed or in shock.

 

Is it challenging to hire Marine Rescue Officers?

Hiring Marine Rescue Officers can be challenging due to the specific skills, physical fitness, and certifications required for the role.

Furthermore, it is a job that involves high risk and can be physically and emotionally demanding.

Therefore, finding candidates who are qualified and willing to undertake these challenges can be difficult.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the lid on what it truly means to be a marine rescue officer.

Surprised?

It’s not just about steering the ship.

It’s about safeguarding our seas, one life at a time.

With our handy marine rescue officer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to set sail.

But why drop anchor here?

Ride the wave further with our job description generator. It’s your compass to precision-crafted listings or fine-tuning your resume to the tee.

Remember:

Each life saved is a crucial part of the larger mission.

Let’s navigate that mission. Together.

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