Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Canadian Coast Guard | Pêches et Océans Canada, Garde Côtière Canadienne
Symbol of the Government of Canada
Skip to content | Skip to institutional links

Common menu bar links

Home > Careers with the Canadian Coast Guard > Students > IRB Program

Institutional links

Two IRB Service student employees on the water


Students

Inshore Rescue Boat (IRB) Service 

Each summer, the Canadian Coast Guard hires approximately 130 students for the Inshore Rescue Boat Service. Students are hired through the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) to become members of the IRB.

If you are selected as a candidate, you are trained in Search and Rescue operations by CCG regional staff.  Following the successful completion of training, candidates are assigned as crew to IRB stations. Normally, each station is staffed with two teams of three persons, one Coxswain in charge and two crew.

A position as a student offers you competitive wages. Effective January 2011, wages start at $13.98/hour, and with experience, they can go up to $18.31/hour.

For more detailed information, please click here.

 Students receiving training

Students posing for a photo aboard a Search and Rescue vessel

Claire L., Coxswain IRB Program (Halifax North)

Claire L., Coxswain IRB Program (Halifax):

"My name is Claire, and I study Science and Kinesiology and Education at the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton. I love this job so much - this is my fourth summer back. Through this job I have been able to use night vision goggles, first aid kits, stretchers, spinal boards, and I got to drive some of the fastest boats CCG has to offer. On my off time, I am able to enjoy the summer days. The work itself is extremely fulfilling. Not only am I able to spend a great deal of time on the water, I also provide assistance to those in need. There is no greater reward than saving a life."
Date Modified: 2012-02-03

Top of page
Important Notices