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Diver Helper Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Commercial Diver

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Whether you are a diver, crane operator, laborer, welder, superintendent, foreman, project manager ... help build a company they can be proud to be part of for years to come. If you are looking for a ...

U.S. Army

US Army Diver (12D)

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$50K/yr

A diver performs tasks such as reconnaissance, demolition and salvage in underwater conditions ... Communication security policies and procedures Helpful Skills: * Interest in mechanics and building

RQ Tech HR LLC

Driver

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18/hr

... our customers, helping them save time and reduce the hassle associated with returning online ... Divers will interact in a positive and professional manner with customers and the general public ...

Somatus, Inc.

Senior Accountant

Mclean, VA · On-site

$95K - $110K/yr

We offer 25+ health, growth, and wealth work perks to help teammates be the best version of themselves, including: * Subsidized personal healthcare coverage : Medical, Dental & Vision, plus Wellness ...

Avardis Health

Director of Nursing (DON)

Ashland, VA · On-site

Use for free to help satisfy certifications or professional development. Available via computer or mobile, and many courses offer alternative languages. Phone and auto discounts: Up to 20% on ...

Quantum Leap Research, LLC

Be Seen First

Senior Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technician

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

The successful candidate will help transform concepts into field-ready products by creating CAD ... Experience in marine, defense, aerospace, robotics, or unmanned systems industries Veterans, divers ...

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Diver Helper information

What are the typical responsibilities of a diver helper?

As a Diver Helper, your core responsibilities include preparing and maintaining diving equipment, assisting divers as they enter and exit the water, and monitoring the diver’s air supply and communications from the surface. You’ll also be responsible for maintaining a safe work area, recording dive times, and providing immediate support in case of emergencies. This role requires strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety protocols, as you play a critical part in ensuring the success and safety of each dive operation.

What is the difference between Diver Helper vs Underwater Welder?

AspectDiver HelperUnderwater Welder
Required CertificationsOpen Water Diver Certification, Basic Safety TrainingCommercial Diving Certification, Underwater Welding Certification
Work EnvironmentUnderwater construction, maintenance, inspectionsUnderwater welding, cutting, repair tasks in industrial settings
Industry UsageConstruction, marine services, inspectionOil & gas, shipbuilding, industrial repair

While both roles involve working underwater, a Diver Helper assists with support tasks such as equipment handling and safety, whereas an Underwater Welder performs specialized welding and cutting tasks in industrial environments. Diver Helpers typically require basic diving certifications, while Underwater Welders need advanced certifications and welding skills. The roles differ mainly in technical expertise and job complexity, but both are essential in underwater operations.

What is a diver helper?

Diver Helpers, also known as tender divers or dive tenders, are professionals who assist commercial divers during underwater operations. They help with preparing and maintaining diving equipment, monitoring safety lines, and ensuring communication between the diver and the surface crew. Their role is crucial for the safety and effectiveness of diving projects, as they provide support before, during, and after dives. Diver Helpers may also assist with site setup, equipment retrieval, and emergency procedures.

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

To thrive as a Diver Helper, you need basic knowledge of diving operations, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with diving equipment, air supply systems, and sometimes certification in first aid or CPR is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are key soft skills for supporting divers and ensuring smooth operations. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency in underwater environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Diver jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Diver jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Diver Helper jobs in Virginia? For Diver Helper jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Diver Helper jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Diver Helper jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Diver Helper jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Diver Helper job openings:
Diver Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diver Helper job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Commercial Diver

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Why Work for UMX?
At UMX, we believe exceptional projects are built by exceptional people. Whether you are a diver, crane operator, laborer, welder, superintendent, foreman, project manager, or support professional, every member of our team contributes to the success of our projects and the future of our company.
Safety is the foundation of everything we do. We are committed to providing the training, resources, and support necessary for our employees to perform their work safely, professionally, and confidently. Our goal is simple: everyone goes home safely at the end of the day.
We understand that strong teams are built through trust, consistency, and shared purpose. That is why we seek individuals who are serious about their craft, invested in their future, and motivated to help build a company they can be proud to be part of for years to come.
If you are looking for a workplace that values safety, stability, leadership, and long-term growth, we invite you to join the UMX team.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Commercial Diver at Underwater Mechanix, Inc. (UMX) is responsible for the safe and proficient execution of underwater construction, inspection, repair, and maintenance tasks in support of marine construction and commercial diving projects. Operating under the direct supervision of the Dive Supervisor, the Commercial Diver performs a wide range of subsurface tasks including underwater cutting and welding, pile inspection and repair, concrete placement, rigging, and structure survey. The Commercial Diver is also responsible for serving as standby diver, line tender, and topside support crew member when not in the water.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Underwater Operations
  • Perform surface-supplied air diving operations in compliance with the Dive Operations Plan, ADCI, OSHA 1910 subpart T, and EM 385-1-1.
  • Execute underwater construction tasks including pile driving assistance, underwater concrete placement, formwork installation, and marine structure repair.
  • Perform underwater inspection of piles, fenders, sheet pile walls, submerged structures, and seabed conditions with written and photographic documentation.
  • Conduct underwater cutting, welding, and burning operations using oxy-arc and hydraulic tools as qualified and directed.
  • Perform underwater rigging, lifting, and material placement tasks in coordination with topside crane and rigging crews.

Standby & Topside Duties
  • Serve as standby diver during all dive operations when not in the water; remain suited up and ready for immediate emergency deployment.
  • Perform line tender duties including managing umbilical's, maintaining diver communication, and monitoring dive conditions.
  • Assist with setup, operation, and breakdown of surface-supplied dive equipment.
  • Support topside construction activities including rigging, material handling, and general labor as directed.

Safety & Equipment
  • Participate in all pre-dive briefings and JHA/JSA reviews; raise any safety concerns before diving commences.
  • Inspect and verify personal dive equipment prior to each dive; report deficiencies to the Dive Supervisor before entering the water.
  • Complete accurate dive log entries for every dive including depth, bottom time, tasks performed, and anomalies.
  • Properly clean, inspect, and stow personal and shared dive equipment after each use.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Completion of accredited commercial diving program.
  • Certified Commercial Diver (Surface-Supplied) with current, valid certification card.
  • Minimum of 1 year of verifiable commercial diving experience in a construction, inspection, or marine services environment.
  • Current dive medical examination (within 12 months).
  • Current First Aid, CPR and Oxygen Provider certification.
  • Ability to pass pre-employment physical and drug and alcohol screening.
  • Valid driver's license; willingness to travel.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required security clearances and federal installation access credentials.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
  • Marine Construction/Construction background
  • Experience working on Government and municipal projects.
  • Power plant or hydroelectric experience
  • Underwater cutting/welding
  • Experience working around heavy equipment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires exceptional physical fitness and the ability to perform in variable weather conditions in a marine environment. Ability to lift to 50lbs at times is required.
What We Offer:
  • 9 paid holidays
  • Vacation, sick and bereavement pay
  • PPE and annual allowance for boots and prescription safety glasses
  • Work shirts provided
  • Competitive benefits after 60 days of employment. Employer pays 75% of premium payments.
    • Medical
    • Dental
    • Vision
  • 401k + match up to 3%
  • Company-paid life insurance and short term/long term disability
  • Employee assistance program
  • Career development opportunities
  • We offer per diem and lodging on all qualified projects.
  • We will pay for recertifications needed for this role, ex. CPR, Diver Physicals.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Underwater Mechanix Services (UMX) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, business needs, and applicable laws. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, military status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Reasonable Accommodations
UMX is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities and to sincerely held religious beliefs and practices, unless doing so would create an undue hardship. Applicants who require an accommodation during the hiring process should contact Human Resources.
Federal Contractor
As a federal contractor, UMX complies with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action requirements. We encourage qualified veterans and individuals with disabilities to apply.
Employment Requirements
Offers of employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation, drug screening, verification of employment eligibility, reference verification, and any position-specific licensing, certification, or security requirements permitted by law. UMX participates in E-Verify and maintains a Drug-Free Workplace.
Compensation Transparency
Where required by applicable law, UMX provides a good-faith salary or hourly wage range in its job postings. Compensation is determined based on qualifications, experience, education, skills, certifications, geographic location, and business needs.

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