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Deep Sea Salvage Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Diver (12D)

Allentown, PA · On-site

$23K - $97K/yr

... salvage underwater. You'll also assist with underwater construction and specialize in either scuba diving or deep-sea diving. You'll support special warfare and explosive ordnance disposal troops ...

Overview: A diver performs tasks such as reconnaissance, demolition and salvage in underwater conditions. They specialize in either scuba diving (below the surface of water) or deep-sea diving ...

... sea rescues and provide advanced first aid; execute underwater search, salvage, harbor clearance, and security missions; inspect, cut, weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and ...

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Deep Sea Salvage information

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How much do deep sea salvage jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for deep sea salvage in the United States is $14.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $14.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is deep sea salvage?

Deep sea salvage refers to the process of recovering ships, cargo, or other valuable items from the ocean floor, often at great depths. This specialized field combines marine engineering, diving, robotics, and navigation technologies to locate and retrieve objects that have been lost or wrecked underwater. Salvage operations can involve anything from sunken vessels to lost containers, and are often conducted for environmental, legal, or financial reasons. Deep sea salvage crews must contend with challenging conditions such as high pressure, low visibility, and strong currents, making it a highly skilled and demanding profession.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in deep sea salvage operations?

Deep sea salvage professionals often encounter challenges such as working in extreme underwater environments with limited visibility, strong currents, and unpredictable weather. Safety is a top priority, as operations frequently involve heavy equipment and hazardous materials. Additionally, teamwork and clear communication are essential, as crews must coordinate complex tasks under pressure, often with strict timelines. Adapting quickly to changing conditions and troubleshooting technical issues are also key aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a deep sea salvage diver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Deep Sea Salvage Diver, you need advanced diving certifications (such as commercial or saturation diving), strong physical fitness, and expertise in underwater engineering and salvage operations. Familiarity with specialized equipment like remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), sonar systems, and heavy lifting gear is essential, along with certifications in underwater welding or rigging. Problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this high-risk environment. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safety, effective recovery operations, and successful navigation of complex underwater challenges.

What is the difference between Deep Sea Salvage vs Commercial Diver?

AspectDeep Sea SalvageCommercial Diver
CertificationsCommercial diving certification, specialized salvage trainingCommercial diving certification, specialized in underwater construction or inspection
Work EnvironmentDeep ocean, wrecks, sunken vessels, often in challenging conditionsShallow to moderate depths, underwater construction, inspection, maintenance
Industry UsageMaritime salvage, wreck recovery, underwater rescueConstruction, inspection, maintenance of underwater structures

Deep Sea Salvage and Commercial Diver roles both require commercial diving certifications and involve underwater work. However, deep sea salvage focuses on recovering sunken vessels or objects in challenging, deep environments, while commercial divers typically work in shallower waters performing construction, inspection, and maintenance tasks. The primary difference lies in the depth and nature of the projects, with deep sea salvage demanding specialized skills for deep, complex recoveries.

How much do deep sea salvage divers make?

Deep sea salvage divers typically earn between $40,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the salvage operation. Pay can also include hazard pay and overtime due to the challenging and risky environment.
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What job categories do people searching Deep Sea Salvage jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Deep Sea Salvage jobs are:

Infographic showing various Deep Sea Salvage job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 69% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,000 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

Diver (12D)

U.S. Army

Allentown, PA • On-site

$23K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 495 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

ELIGIBLE FOR UP TO 20K SIGNING BONUS

As a Diver, you’ll have the unique skills to conduct reconnaissance, demolition, and salvage underwater. You’ll also assist with underwater construction and specialize in either scuba diving or deep-sea diving. You’ll support special warfare and explosive ordnance disposal troops while using diving gear.

Testing & Certifications:
  • 42 Nationally Recognized Certifications Available.
  • 10 weeks of Basic Training (Paid).
  • 29 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (Paid).
  • Requires enlistment into the United States Army.
Basic Eligibility Requirements:
  • Citizenship: A U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Green Card. (I-551). 
  • Age: Between 17 to 34 Years Old.
  • Medical, Moral, Physical: Medically and physically capable, and in good moral standing.
  • Education: A high school diploma or equivalent.

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About US Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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