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Divers Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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.

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 ...

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Divers information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$23

$44

How much do divers jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for divers in Virginia is $23.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Divers vs Deckhands?

AspectDiversDeckhands
CertificationsOpen Water Diver Certification, specialized diving certificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, maritime safety certifications
Work EnvironmentUnderwater, marine environments, diving operationsOnboard ships, deck areas, maritime settings
Industry UsageMarine construction, underwater inspection, salvageShipping, yachting, cruise lines

While both Divers and Deckhands work in maritime settings, Divers focus on underwater tasks requiring diving certifications, whereas Deckhands handle onboard duties related to ship maintenance and operations. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the maritime industry.

What are some common challenges Divers face in their daily work, and how can they prepare for them?

Divers often encounter challenges such as limited visibility underwater, strong currents, and maintaining clear communication with team members. To prepare, divers undergo rigorous training in navigation, emergency procedures, and the use of specialized equipment like underwater communication systems. Regular physical conditioning and participation in safety drills are also essential to ensure readiness for unexpected situations. Teamwork and adaptability are key, as divers typically work closely with surface support crews and other divers to achieve mission objectives safely.

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 ability, physical fitness, and specialized training such as a commercial diving certification or scuba qualification. Familiarity with diving equipment, underwater communication systems, and safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe and efficient underwater operations, where risks must be managed carefully to protect both personnel and project outcomes.

What are divers and what do they do?

Divers are trained professionals who work underwater using specialized equipment such as scuba gear or diving suits. Their responsibilities can vary widely and may include underwater inspection, repair, construction, scientific research, photography, and salvage operations. Some divers work in commercial settings like oil rigs or ship maintenance, while others specialize in recreational diving instruction or marine biology. Safety is a critical aspect of their job, requiring rigorous training and adherence to protocols. Divers must also be physically fit and comfortable working in challenging underwater environments.
What are popular job titles related to Divers jobs in Virginia? For Divers jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Divers jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Divers jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Divers jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Divers job openings:
Infographic showing various Divers job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,152 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Commercial Diver

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 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.