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Diver 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, or support professional, every member of our team contributes to the success of our projects and ...

UMX Underwater Mechanics

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 ...

Underwater Mechanix UMX

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 ...

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Commercial Diver

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Salary: $30 - $38/hour ADCI Certified Commercial Diver Position Summary The ADCI Certified Commercial Diver is responsible for performing underwater construction, inspections, repairs, and ...

Ballard

Commercial Diver / Tender

Norfolk, VA · On-site

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 ...

U.S. Army

US Army Diver (12D)

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$50K/yr

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 ...

Phoenix International Holdings Inc

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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All JobsDiver JobsDiver Jobs in Virginia

Diver information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$56.4K

$142.8K

How much do diver jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 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.

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 physical fitness. Experience in underwater work and knowledge of safety procedures are also important factors in securing employment in this field.

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 earn 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.

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.

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 certifications, physical fitness, and the ability to work in challenging underwater environments.
More about Diver jobs
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:
Diver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diver 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, 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

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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