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Diver Tender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Commercial Diver / Tender's prime responsibility is to support construction activities by performing work as directed by the Project Manager / Dive Supervisor. This project is based in Norfolk ...

Commercial Diver

Sanford, NC ยท On-site

$35 - $50/hr

We are looking for Divers and Tenders to join our team. Candidates must be a graduates of an ADCE accredited schoool, be comfortable working in a variety of conditions, and have the ability to use ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Commercial Diver

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$35 - $50/hr

We are looking for Divers and Tenders to join our team. Candidates must be a graduates of an ADCE accredited schoool, be comfortable working in a variety of conditions, and have the ability to use ...

TENDER/DIVER

Galveston, TX ยท On-site

$22 - $27/hr

We have several openings for commercial divers/tenders with experience in the following areas: salvage, marine construction, ships husbandry/hull cleaning, and pipeline inspection/abandonment.

TENDER/DIVER

Galveston, TX ยท On-site

$22 - $27/hr

We have several openings for commercial divers/tenders with experience in the following areas: salvage, marine construction, ships husbandry/hull cleaning, and pipeline inspection/abandonment.

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

Showing results 21-40

Diver Tender information

See salary details

$17

$31

$37

How much do diver tender jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for diver 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 is the difference between Diver Tender vs Underwater Welder?

AspectDiver TenderUnderwater Welder
CertificationsCommercial Diver Certification, CPR, First AidCommercial Diver Certification, Welding Certification, CPR
Work EnvironmentUnderwater construction, inspection, maintenanceUnderwater welding, repair, fabrication
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist divers, handle equipment, monitor safetyPerform underwater welding and cutting tasks

While both roles involve working underwater and require commercial diver certifications, a Diver Tender primarily supports divers by managing equipment and safety, whereas an Underwater Welder performs specialized welding tasks underwater. The roles often overlap in the industry, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Diver Tender, you need a solid understanding of diving operations, safety protocols, and basic mechanical skills, usually gained through specialized training or certification such as Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) Tender/Diver certification. Familiarity with dive control systems, communication equipment, and maintenance of diving gear is essential. Strong teamwork, situational awareness, and effective communication are vital soft skills for supporting divers and ensuring smooth operations. These skills and qualities are critical to maintaining diver safety, operational efficiency, and the successful completion of underwater tasks.

What is a diver tender?

Diver Tenders are support personnel who assist commercial or professional divers during underwater operations. Their duties typically include preparing equipment, monitoring communication and safety, helping divers suit up, and providing surface support throughout the dive. Diver Tenders play a critical role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of underwater projects by managing lines, tools, and emergency procedures. They often work alongside experienced divers and are trained to respond quickly to any issues that may arise during a dive.

What are some common challenges faced by diver tenders during underwater operations?

Diver Tenders often face challenges such as maintaining constant communication with divers, managing heavy or complex equipment, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols under pressure. They must be highly alert and responsive to any changes in the diver's condition or the underwater environment. Working in a team-oriented environment, Tenders must also coordinate closely with supervisors and other crew members to ensure smooth and safe operations, which can be physically demanding and require quick problem-solving skills.
More about Diver Tender jobs
What cities are hiring for Diver Tender jobs? Cities with the most Diver Tender job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Diver Tender jobs? The most popular types of Diver Tender jobs are:
What states have the most Diver Tender jobs? States with the most job openings for Diver Tender jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Diver Tender jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Diver Tender jobs are:
Infographic showing various Diver Tender job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% As Needed, and 82% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,145 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Commercial Diver / Tender

Ballard

Norfolk, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 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.
This project is based in Norfolk, VA, and we are actively looking for local Commercial Divers to assist with the work. Ideal candidates will be experienced, certified, and able to mobilize locally.
Ideal Candidate:
Core Attributes:
โ€ข 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.
โ€ข 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.
โ€ข 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.
โ€ข 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.
โ€ข 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:
โ€ข Diploma from ADCE Compliant Commercial Dive School
โ€ข Current ADCI Certification for the type of diving being performed
โ€ข Current ADCI Compliant Dive Physical
โ€ข Current First Aid, CPR, AED, Oxygen Administration Certifications
โ€ข OSHA 10 Hour - Construction
โ€ข Valid Driver's License with current driving record free from serious or frequent violation
Experience:
โ€ข 1 + years' experience working in commercial diving operations
โ€ข Heavy equipment operation (if qualified)
Skills:
โ€ข Ability to read and follow dive tables (air and nitrox), altitude tables, treatment tables, etc.
โ€ข Ability to check and maintain diving equipment such as helmets, masks, air tanks, harness, and gauges.
โ€ข Must have good hand-eye coordination.
โ€ข 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.
โ€ข Ability to clearly communicate with workers on the surface while underwater and with divers while you are running a dive station.
โ€ข Ability to cut and weld steel, using underwater welding / burning equipment, jigs, and supports.
โ€ข Knowledge of materials, methods, and the appropriate tools to construct objects, structures, dams, etc.
โ€ข Ability to work at heights of up to 50' or more.
โ€ข Ability to work in confined or enclosed spaces.
โ€ข Climb ladders or steps to reach objects.
โ€ข Ability to wear a hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, safety-toed boots, or other applicable PPE.
โ€ข Lift arms above shoulder level (i.e., lifts items into a truck or overhead area).
โ€ข Ability to walk moderate distances to reach work area (1/2 mile or more).
โ€ข Ability to sit in the operator's seat of equipment and reach all pedals, switches, levers, buttons, etc., required to safely operate the equipment.
โ€ข Learn job-related material primarily through oral instruction and observation, which takes place mainly in an on-the-job training setting.
โ€ข 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.
โ€ข Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
โ€ข Must have common sense and be mentally stable and competent working in a fast-paced environment.
โ€ข Work safely without presenting a direct threat to self and others.
โ€ข Must be committed to contributing to a culture of safety, looking out for yourself and others.
โ€ข 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
โ€ข 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.
โ€ข 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.
โ€ข Ability to travel and work for many weeks at a time away from home.
โ€ข Must have a positive attitude and willingness to learn, including good communication skills.
Responsibilities:
โ€ข Equipment set-up and breakdown
โ€ข Equipment load-out and maintenance
โ€ข Jetting / Dredging
โ€ข Dive tending
โ€ข Rack box operation
โ€ข In-water work assignments
โ€ข Decompression chamber operations
โ€ข Inspection with video documentation
โ€ข Burning / welding operation (wet or dry)
โ€ข Hand and power tool operation
โ€ข Pneumatic / hydraulic tool operation (wet or dry)
โ€ข Percussion tool operation (wet or dry)
โ€ข Saws and other cutting tools (wet or dry)
โ€ข Crane rigging and signaling (wet or dry)
โ€ข Placing flags or barricades
โ€ข Equipment spotting
โ€ข Salvage or environmental operations
โ€ข Additional duties as directed
Physical Demands / Working Environment:
โ€ข Move heavy objects (94 lbs. or more) short distances (20' of less).
โ€ข Move light objects (less than 94 lbs.) long distances (more than 20').
โ€ข Work long shifts with non-standard break times.
โ€ข Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time.
โ€ข Work is generally performed in the field environment with various weather and field conditions.
โ€ข Lifting and pulling is required.
โ€ข Work in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to the elements.
โ€ข Employees may be subject to blood borne pathogens, varying weather conditions, varying walking and working surfaces and conditions, cleaners, and chemicals.
Hourly Rates:
โ€ข $25-$35/per hour
โ€ข 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.