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Diver Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Commercial Diver

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

ADCI Certified Commercial Diver Position Summary The ADCI Certified Commercial Diver is responsible for performing underwater construction, inspections, repairs, and maintenance in accordance with ...

Commercial Diver

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

ADCI Certified Commercial Diver Position Summary The ADCI Certified Commercial Diver is responsible for performing underwater construction, inspections, repairs, and maintenance in accordance with ...

ADCI Certified Commercial Diver Position Summary The ADCI Certified Commercial Diver is responsible for performing underwater construction, inspections, repairs, and maintenance in accordance with ...

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 ...

Overview: A diver performs tasks such as reconnaissance, demolition and salvage in underwater conditions. They specialize in either scuba diving (below the surface of water) or deep-sea diving ...

Welder/Diver

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

The Welder/Diver is a diving specialist who is required to maintain proficiency in surface and hyperbaric (wet and dry chamber) welding as well as the skills required by all divers. The position may ...

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Diver information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$56.4K

$142.8K

How much do diver jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for diver in Virginia is $56,353.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24,800.00 and $45,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a diver?

Divers are professionals trained to work underwater using specialized equipment such as scuba gear or surface-supplied diving apparatus. They perform various tasks, including underwater inspections, repairs, construction, scientific research, and search and rescue operations. Divers must be skilled in navigating underwater environments and adhering to safety protocols to minimize risks associated with their work. Training and certification are essential for most professional diving roles.

What does a diver do?

A Diver is a position in which you are tasked with performing manual labor underwater in diverse environments. Some of your responsibilities include retrieving valuables from shipwrecks, or inspecting, installing, or doing maintenance on drilling platforms or other undersea installations. Generally, you utilize SCUBA equipment to accomplish your duties. You could work in oceans, rivers, or lakes. Your employers could range from marine biologists and salvage operations to drilling rigs and government agencies, among others. If seeking employment as a HAZMAT Diver, you will receive comprehensive training to safely remove hazardous materials underwater. This might include sewage, radioactive materials, or even human corpses.

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

To thrive as a Diver, you need strong swimming abilities, physical fitness, and completion of professional diving certifications such as PADI or commercial diver training. Familiarity with diving equipment, underwater communication systems, and safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, calmness under pressure, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability while working in challenging underwater environments.

What are common challenges professional divers face when working on underwater projects?

Professional divers often encounter challenges such as limited visibility, strong underwater currents, and the need to work with specialized equipment in confined spaces. Safety is always a top priority, as divers must vigilantly monitor their air supply and adhere to decompression protocols to prevent health risks. Additionally, divers frequently collaborate with surface teams for communication and logistical support, making teamwork and clear communication essential for successful underwater operations.

What is the difference between Diver vs Scuba Diver?

AspectDiverScuba Diver
CertificationsOpen Water Diver or equivalentOpen Water Diver certification
Work EnvironmentUnderwater exploration, commercial diving, researchRecreational diving, guided tours
Industry UsageCommercial, scientific, military, recreationalRecreational diving industry
Common Search IntentProfessional underwater workLeisure diving activities

The main difference between a Diver and a Scuba Diver is that a Diver often refers to professionals with advanced certifications and experience working in commercial, scientific, or industrial underwater environments. In contrast, a Scuba Diver typically refers to recreational divers with basic open water certifications engaging in leisure activities. While both involve underwater breathing apparatus, Diver roles usually require additional training and certifications, making them suitable for professional tasks, whereas Scuba Divers focus on recreational exploration.

How much do divers get paid?

Diver salaries vary based on experience, location, and specialization. Entry-level commercial divers typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, while experienced commercial divers can make over $100,000 per year. Factors such as certifications, working conditions, and the type of diving (e.g., scientific, recreational, or commercial) influence pay rates.

Is it hard to get a job as a diver?

Getting a job as a diver can be competitive and often requires specialized training, certifications such as PADI or NAUI, and relevant experience. Opportunities may be limited by industry demand, location, and the level of skill required, making persistence and proper qualifications important for success.

What jobs can you do as a diver?

As a diver, you can work in roles such as commercial diver, underwater welder, scientific researcher, marine archaeologist, or underwater photographer. These jobs often require specialized training, certifications, and the ability to work in challenging 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 jobs in Virginia?

For Diver jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Diver jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Diver jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Diver jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Diver job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Diver jobs in VA?

For Diver jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Diver job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,353 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Commercial Diver

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

ADCI Certified Commercial Diver

Position Summary

The ADCI Certified Commercial Diver is responsible for performing underwater construction, inspections, repairs, and maintenance in accordance with industry standards, client requirements, and regulatory guidelines. This is a safety-sensitive position requiring strict adherence to operational protocols and company policies.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Perform commercial dives in compliance with ADCI guidelines and UMX safety protocols.
  • Conduct underwater inspections, cutting, welding, fitting steel, concrete work, and installation tasks.
  • Set up, test, maintain, and operate diving equipment, tools, and support systems.
  • Conduct routine and preventive maintenance of all dive gear and associated machinery.
  • Operate construction equipment such as forklifts, telehandlers, and bobcats as required.
  • Follow dive plans and verbal/written instructions from supervisors.
  • Document work progress and report hazards, delays, or safety issues to project leadership.
  • Comply with all client, local, state, and federal safety regulations and site-specific policies.
  • Travel to various job sites.
  • Work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as necessary to meet project timelines.


Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
  • Diploma from an accredited commercial diving school
  • Experienced Commercial Diver: 1 year or more of commercial diving experience
  • Current ADCI certification
  • Current Dive Log Book
  • Valid ADCI Dive Physical (or ability to obtain prior to employment)
  • First Aid / CPR / O2 Provider Current Certification
  • Valid state-issued driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Passport – Preferred
  • Ability to pass a federal background check and drug screening
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required federal installation access credentials
  • Willingness to travel and work in remote, marine, and field environments.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of underwater construction practices and commercial diving safety protocols.
  • Proficiency with underwater tools and equipment.
  • Ability to read and follow technical instructions.
  • Physical ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs. repetitively.
  • Excellent situational awareness and risk assessment capability.


Working Conditions

Outdoor and underwater work in variable environmental conditions, including confined spaces and low visibility. Exposure to loud noises, heavy machinery, and hazardous materials. Physically demanding tasks involving lifting, climbing, and extended time underwater. Work may be performed at depth and under pressure, requiring the use of specialized equipment.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position is performed primarily in active marine and waterfront construction environments. 


What We Offer:

  • 9 paid holidays
  • Vacation, Sick and Bereavement pay
  • PPE as required: Work Boots, Safety Vest, Hard Hat, Safety Glasses, PFD, etc. 
  • Employer pays 75% of premium payments, Available after 60 days of employment. 
    • Medical
    • Dental
    • Vision
  • 401k + match up to 3%
  • $25,000 Life Insurance 
  • Short Term/Long Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Career Development Opportunities


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.

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.