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Dive Tender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Diver

Tampa, FL · On-site

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders, and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent ...

Diver

Houston, TX · On-site

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent may ...

Diver

Tampa, FL · On-site

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders, and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent ...

Diver

Tampa, FL · On-site

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders, and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent ...

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders, and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent ...

Diver

Houston, TX · On-site

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent may ...

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders, and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent ...

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders, and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent ...

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders, and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent ...

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders, and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent ...

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent may ...

Diver

Houston, TX · On-site

The incumbent will work closely with the Operations Manager, Diving Supervisor, Dive Tenders and other Divers. If the diving activities are in support of the Company's project work, the incumbent may ...

Ensure the deepest depth attained during the dive has been established before the ascent. * Safety ... training of new personnel or Tenders/Divers. * Remain awake and in the vicinity of the ...

Diver

Houma, LA · On-site

Ensure the deepest depth attained during the dive has been established before the ascent. * Safety ... training of new personnel or Tenders/Divers. * Remain awake and in the vicinity of the ...

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Dive Tender information

See salary details

$17

$31

$37

How much do dive tender jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for dive tender in the United States is $31.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.84 and $37.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Dive Tenders?

Dive Tenders are professionals who assist commercial or scientific divers before, during, and after underwater operations. Their responsibilities include preparing and checking diving equipment, monitoring safety protocols, communicating with the diver, and providing surface support throughout the dive. Dive Tenders play a critical role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of diving operations by maintaining constant communication and quickly responding to any emergencies that arise.

What is the difference between Dive Tender vs Dive Instructor?

AspectDive TenderDive Instructor
CertificationsOpen Water Diver, Dive Tender CertificationOpen Water Diver, Dive Instructor Certification
Work EnvironmentAssist divers, handle equipment, support dive operationsLead dives, train students, ensure safety protocols
Employer & Industry UsageResorts, dive shops, cruise linesResorts, dive schools, training agencies

While both roles are essential in diving operations, a Dive Tender primarily supports divers and handles equipment, whereas a Dive Instructor leads training and ensures diver safety. The Dive Tender role is often a stepping stone for those pursuing a career in diving instruction.

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

To thrive as a Dive Tender, you need strong knowledge of diving operations, safety protocols, and typically a commercial diving certification or relevant training. Familiarity with dive equipment maintenance, communication systems, and emergency response procedures is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and clear communication skills help ensure diver safety and efficient coordination. These skills and qualities are critical for maintaining a safe environment and supporting successful underwater operations.

What are some common challenges Dive Tenders face during underwater operations, and how can they prepare for them?

Dive Tenders often encounter challenges such as maintaining clear communication with divers, managing dive schedules, and ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed. They must be prepared to respond quickly to emergencies and adapt to changing weather or water conditions. To succeed, Dive Tenders should be well-versed in dive equipment, stay current with safety certifications, and build strong teamwork skills to support both the divers and surface crew effectively.
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What cities are hiring for Dive Tender jobs? Cities with the most Dive Tender job openings:
What states have the most Dive Tender jobs? States with the most job openings for Dive Tender jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Dive Tender jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Dive Tender jobs are:
Infographic showing various Dive Tender job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,145 per year, or $31.8 per hour.
Commercial Diver/Tender

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

WHY JOIN BALLARD MARINE CONSTRUCTION?

Ballard Marine Construction is a specialty marine and underwater contractor based in Washougal, WA, with regional offices and projects throughout North America.

Why join Ballard? It’s simple. You get to work on amazing technical projects with likeminded team members. The Ballard culture is second to none, and because of that we are incredibly protective and particular on who we invite onto the team. We have a unique culture of true excellence; we hold each other accountable from our newest interns and engineers to our most senior leaders. You will always go to work knowing that everyone you are working with cares as much as you do and is working hard to reach common goals. You will get out of it what you put into it. Ballard is an amazing place to work and if what we’ve said resonates with you, you just might be right for us!

Job Summary:

The Commercial Diver / Tender’s prime responsibility is to support construction activities by performing work as directed by the Project Manager / Dive Supervisor. 

Ideal Candidate:

 

Core Attributes:

·        Grit and Resiliency - We dig deep to figure out how to make things happen no matter how impossible it seems. We never give up. We take on challenges that nobody else can or will.

·        Comradery and Inspirational - We are a hard-working team of likeminded individuals working toward a common goal. We regularly celebrate wins and like to have fun whether at work or at play. We come together each day looking for ways to instill life and energy into the world around us.

·        Driven and Competitive - We love competition. We love to win and love to learn when we lose. Not getting the job done is not an option. We are obsessed with doing our best and we do what it takes to win.

·        Trustworthy and Respectful - We are passionate about honesty, authenticity, and transparency. No lies. No drama. No politics. We value constructive conflict and ensure that even in conflict we treat others with respect.

·        Ownership and Accountability - When something goes wrong, we first “look in the mirror” before we “look out the window”. We ask, “what could I have done differently?” and then we share lessons learned. Regularly challenging ourselves and those around us to be better is a way of life. “Me first” belongs here.

Education:

·        Diploma from ADCE Compliant Commercial Dive School

·        Current ADCI Certification for the type of diving being performed

·        Current ADCI Compliant Dive Physical

·        Current First Aid, CPR, AED, Oxygen Administration Certifications

·        OSHA 10 Hour - Construction

·        Valid Driver’s License with current driving record free from serious or frequent violation

Experience:

·        1 + years’ experience working in commercial diving operations

·        Heavy equipment operation (if qualified)

Skills:

·        Ability to read and follow dive tables (air and nitrox), altitude tables, treatment tables, etc.

·        Ability to check and maintain diving equipment such as helmets, masks, air tanks, harness, and gauges.

·        Must have good hand-eye coordination.

·        Must be able to hear adequately enough to receive and understand instructions, be alerted by horns, sirens, shouting, or any other noise that is meant to convey a safety warning.

·        Ability to clearly communicate with workers on the surface while underwater and with divers while you are running a dive station.

·        Ability to cut and weld steel, using underwater welding / burning equipment, jigs, and supports.

·        Knowledge of materials, methods, and the appropriate tools to construct objects, structures, dams, etc.

·        Ability to work at heights of up to 50’ or more.

·        Ability to work in confined or enclosed spaces.

·        Climb ladders or steps to reach objects.

·        Ability to wear a hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, safety-toed boots, or other applicable PPE.

·        Lift arms above shoulder level (i.e., lifts items into a truck or overhead area).

·        Ability to walk moderate distances to reach work area (1/2 mile or more).

·        Ability to sit in the operator’s seat of equipment and reach all pedals, switches, levers, buttons, etc., required to safely operate the equipment.

·        Learn job-related material primarily through oral instruction and observation, which takes place mainly in an on-the-job training setting.

·        Ability to sit in the operator’s seat of equipment and have an adequate field of vision of all instruments, gauges, warning lights, as well as an acceptable field of vision out of the windows/mirrors.

·        Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

·        Must have common sense and be mentally stable and competent working in a fast-paced environment.

·        Work safely without presenting a direct threat to self and others.

·        Must be committed to contributing to a culture of safety, looking out for yourself and others.

·        Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials

·        Be a contributing member of crews who will complete daily Job Hazard Analysis of every task that you are involved in throughout the work shift.

·        Work with other divers, tenders, and Ballard personnel to plan for safe operations for commercial diving activities and other construction activities that occur throughout a project.

·        Ability to travel and work for many weeks at a time away from home.

·        Must have a positive attitude and willingness to learn, including good communication skills.

Responsibilities:

·        Equipment set-up and breakdown

·        Equipment load-out and maintenance

·        Jetting / Dredging

·        Dive tending

·        Rack box operation

·        In-water work assignments

·        Decompression chamber operations

·        Inspection with video documentation

·        Burning / welding operation (wet or dry)

·        Hand and power tool operation

·        Pneumatic / hydraulic tool operation (wet or dry)

·        Percussion tool operation (wet or dry)

·        Saws and other cutting tools (wet or dry)

·        Crane rigging and signaling (wet or dry)

·        Placing flags or barricades

·        Equipment spotting

·        Salvage or environmental operations

·        Additional duties as directed

Physical Demands / Working Environment:

 

·        Move heavy objects (94 lbs. or more) short distances (20’ of less).

·        Move light objects (less than 94 lbs.) long distances (more than 20’).

·        Work long shifts with non-standard break times.

·        Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time.

·        Work is generally performed in the field environment with various weather and field conditions.

·        Lifting and pulling is required.

·        Work in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to the elements.

·        Employees may be subject to blood borne pathogens, varying weather conditions, varying walking and working surfaces and conditions, cleaners, and chemicals.

Hourly Rates:

 

·        $25-$45/per hour

·        Pay is commensurate on experience

 

 

EEO Statement:

 

Ballard Marine Construction, LLC. is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, or veteran status.  A reasonable accommodation will be considered for qualified individuals with a disability if it does not create an undue hardship for the Company, consistent with the ADA as amended.


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