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Dive Instructor Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Warehouse Associate

La Grande, OR · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

... ll dive into the world of inventory management for a leader in industrial distribution. This ... The experience includes on-the-job, online, instructor led classroom and virtual trainings which ...

Warehouse Associate

La Grande, OR · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

... ll dive into the world of inventory management for a leader in industrial distribution. This ... The experience includes on-the-job, online, instructor led classroom and virtual trainings which ...

On-campus All staff, with the exception of Instructors, are required to reside in on-campus ... to dive deep into an exploration of identity, and their own Native cultures. Elders support the ...

Dive Instructor information

See Oregon salary details

$7

$20

$53

How much do dive instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for dive instructor in Oregon is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $23.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dive instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dive Instructor, you need comprehensive scuba diving knowledge, strong swimming ability, and professional certification from organizations such as PADI or SSI. Familiarity with dive planning software, safety equipment, and underwater communication systems is typically required. Outstanding communication, patience, and leadership skills help instructors effectively teach and reassure students from diverse backgrounds. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring student safety, delivering effective instruction, and fostering a positive learning environment underwater.

What are some common challenges dive instructors face when working with students of varying skill levels?

Dive Instructors often encounter classes with students who have diverse backgrounds, comfort levels, and physical abilities. Balancing the needs of beginners who require more guidance with experienced divers who seek advanced instruction can be challenging. Instructors must adapt their teaching style, ensure safety protocols are followed, and foster a supportive learning environment for everyone. Clear communication, patience, and strong group management skills are essential for success in this role.

How do you become a dive instructor?

To become a dive instructor, you need to obtain a professional certification such as the PADI Divemaster or SSI Dive Guide, gain experience through supervised dives, and complete an instructor training course. This process includes passing written exams, practical assessments, and demonstrating teaching skills, often requiring a minimum number of logged dives and first aid certification.

What is the difference between Dive Instructor vs Dive Master?

AspectDive InstructorDive Master
CertificationsOpen Water Instructor, Specialty Instructor certificationsDivemaster certification, Rescue Diver
Work EnvironmentTeaching students, leading training sessions, conducting coursesAssisting instructors, guiding dives, supervising dive activities
Employer & Industry UsageFrequent in dive schools, resorts, training centersCommonly employed in dive shops, resorts, and dive operations

While both Dive Instructors and Dive Masters work in the diving industry, Dive Instructors focus on teaching and certifying students, whereas Dive Masters assist instructors and supervise dive activities. The certifications and work environments overlap significantly, but Dive Instructors typically have more advanced teaching credentials.

Do scuba instructors make good money?

Scuba instructors typically earn an average of $20,000 to $40,000 annually, with earnings influenced by location, experience, certifications, and the type of dive operation. Many instructors supplement income through tips, private lessons, or working seasonally in popular diving destinations.

What is a dive instructor?

Dive instructors are certified professionals who teach individuals how to scuba dive safely and effectively. They provide instruction on diving theory, safety protocols, equipment use, and underwater skills, both in classrooms and in-water environments. Dive instructors also supervise practical training sessions and help students achieve certification for various levels of scuba diving. Their responsibilities may include leading dives, assessing students’ progress, and ensuring adherence to international diving standards.
What are popular job titles related to Dive Instructor jobs in Oregon? For Dive Instructor jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dive Instructor jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Dive Instructor jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Dive Instructor jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Dive Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Dive Instructor job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, and 70% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,314 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Part-Time Swim Instructor - Tanasbourne

Emler Swim School

Beaverton, OR • On-site

$18 - $22.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Emler Swim School rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 221 rated education and training


Job description

Overview

Our team is on a mission to create a safe, fun, and encouraging environment where kids not only learn to swim - they thrive! As a swim instructor, you'll be the heart of the experience: teaching life-saving water safety skills while having a blast and making memories that last a lifetime.

We've earned top employer awards nationwide, and it's all thanks to our amazing team members. Ready to dive in?

Why You'll Love It Here:

  • Get Paid to Have Fun - Seriously. Play games, cheer on kids, and splash around while teaching life skills.
  • No Experience? No Problem! - We offer paid, hands-on training so you feel confident from day one.
  • Join a Crew That Feels Like Family - We're big on team bonding, celebrating wins, and supporting one another.
  • Build Your Skills - Communication, leadership, time management - you'll sharpen them all here.

Responsibilities

What You'll Be Doing:

  • Training with an experienced mentor to learn our proven swim instruction methods
  • Teaching weekly lessons and cheering on student milestones
  • Creating positive, trusting relationships with students and parents
  • Keeping safety a top priority for everyone in and around the pool
  • Getting your steps in! This is an active, on-your-feet (and in-the-pool) role
  • Teaching classes for kids of all ages, from 6 months to 12 years - every age group brings new energy!

Your Schedule:

  • Set shifts that include evenings and weekends
  • Great hours for students and part-timers
  • Opportunities to pick up more hours as you grow with us!

Qualifications

What It Takes:

  • Must love working with kids and bringing positive energy
  • Reliable, safety-minded, and professional with great communication skills
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends on a set schedule
  • Comfortable in the water and active on your feet
  • Previous teaching or swim experience a plus, but not required - we provide paid training!

What Emler Swim School employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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