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Dive Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Houston Zoo

Dive Safety Officer

Houston, TX · On-site

An active Dive Instructor certification preferred. Hold a current oxygen provide instructor certification from a nationally recognized agency. * Experience in preparing and conducting public ...

Clayton Missouri

Dive Coach

Clayton, MO · On-site

$20/hr

Dive Instructors must have availability between 2:30pm - 6:00pm Monday- Thursday from early June - mid-July. Options are also available for year round positions.

Zoological Society

Dive Safety Officer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$50K/yr

Must possess current SCUBA certification of Dive Instructor or higher from a World Recreational SCUBA Training Council agency. Must have a current and valid driver's license. Preferred Qualifications ...

City of Clayton

Dive Coach

Clayton, MO · On-site

$20/hr

Dive Instructors must have availability between 2:30pm - 6:00pm Monday- Thursday from early June - mid-July. Options are also available for year round positions.

City of Clayton

Dive Coach

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$20/hr

Dive Instructors must have availability between 2:30pm - 6:00pm Monday- Thursday from early June - mid-July. Options are also available for year round positions. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

T3i, Inc.

Dive Master

Spokane, WA

Support instructors and training cadre during aquatic training evolutions, including resistance laboratory water events and related water-based training scenarios * Conduct pre-dive safety checks ...

Diventures

Scuba Instructor Dive Professional

Clive, IA · On-site

The Diventures Dive Professional contributes to the success of Diventures by consistently building positive experiences and lasting relationships, through high-touch, high-communication, personalized ...

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Dive Instructor information

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$7

$19

$50

How much do dive instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for dive instructor in the United States is $19.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $22.60 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.

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.

What are dive instructors?

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.
More about Dive Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Dive Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Dive Instructor job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Dive Instructor jobs? The top employers for Dive Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Dive Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Dive Instructor jobs include:
Dive Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dive Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,021 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Dive Safety Officer

Dive Safety Officer

Houston Zoo

Houston, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Houston Zoo rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

The Dive Safety Officer is responsible for the coordination and management of HZI diving operations and training. The position will also be responsible for creating dive schedules, conducting safety drills, and ensuring compliance with all OSHA, AAUS, and AZA standards for aquarium and scientific diving. This role shall be involved in the care, observation, maintenance, propagation, and management of assigned aquarium animal specimens. This position will also be responsible for interpretive presentations to guests in an educational and attractive manner.
Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife.
Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Design and implement a Dive Operation following industry best practices. .
  • Schedules staff divers for maintenance of exhibits and dive presentations.
  • Maintains HZI SCUBA equipment including, but not limited to, scuba cylinders, compressors, regulators, full-face masks, buoyancy compensators, wetsuits, et cetera.
  • Maintains and inspects diving equipment ensuring all is within the proper operating parameters to provide a safe diving environment for staff divers.
  • Maintains membership in the Association of Dive Program Administrators (ADPA).
  • Coordinates regular training and drills for Dive team staff in the areas of safety, animal behavior, visitor enjoyment and educational programming.
  • Meets all applicable requirements as outlined in HZI's Diving Operations and Procedures Manual.
  • Adheres to all dive safety policies and procedures as set by HZI and the Dive Control Board.
  • Establishes a preventative maintenance schedule on breathable air systems while maintaining precise records.
  • Performs other Dive Office functions such as filling cylinders, tending/diving feeding presentations, data entry, buddy diving, diving supervisor, etc.
  • Assists the Animal Care team with exhibit maintenance and other duties as workload necessitates.
  • Performs quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
  • Interacts professionally with other staff, customers, and suppliers.
  • Works effectively as an animal care team member on all assignments.
  • Knowledge of aquatic species and environments maintained at the HZI.
  • Oversee volunteers participating in the dive operations
  • Contributes to saving animals in the wild through reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protecting actions.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) from a four-year college or university in related field, or one to two years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • An active Dive Master certification from a recognized agency (PADI, NAUI, SSI, SDI) required. An active Dive Instructor certification preferred. Hold a current oxygen provide instructor certification from a nationally recognized agency.
  • Experience in preparing and conducting public educational programs.
  • Possess a valid Texas driver's license or the ability to get one within six (6) months of employment.
  • Works independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other staff and organizations.
  • Shares knowledge with others in a team environment and assists with training of those with less knowledge and experience.

ABOUT HOUSTON ZOO
The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests. We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.
Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities. Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
Benefits
Full-time, regular positions are offered the following benefits.
  • Medical and Prescription Drug
  • Vision
  • Dental
  • Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
  • Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Supplemental Life
  • Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account
  • 401k, with employer match

Full-time and Part-Time, regular positions are offered the following additional benefits.
  • Free Zoo Membership
  • Free Guest Passes
  • Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs
  • Free parking

Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Apply