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Diving Industry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Diver/Tender - ADCI

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$37.16 - $118.52/hr

... industry regulations Qualifications Education * High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent) * Graduate of a Commercial Diving Program Accredited by ACDE, ADCI, or a recognized equivalent Required ...

Reporter, Senior (INDG)

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$28.25 - $38.25/hr

You'll write daily stories to longer-term enterprise diving into legal and regulatory changes, build sources across industry and regulatory spaces, and collaborate with reporters and editors in ...

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Diving Industry information

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$11K

$56.8K

$144K

How much do diving industry jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for diving industry in the United States is $56,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25,000.00 and $46,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges professionals face when working in the diving industry?

Professionals in the diving industry often face challenges such as adapting to variable weather and water conditions, maintaining strict safety standards, and managing the physical demands of the job. Working underwater requires constant vigilance and teamwork to ensure safety and effective communication. Additionally, divers need to stay updated on certifications and equipment maintenance, as well as adjust to irregular work schedules that may depend on client needs or environmental factors.

What is the difference between Diving Industry vs Commercial Diver?

AspectDiving IndustryCommercial Diver
CertificationsOpen Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue DiverCommercial Diving Certifications, such as IMCA or ADCI
Work EnvironmentRecreational, research, film, tourismUnderwater construction, welding, inspection
Employer & Industry UsageResorts, research institutions, film companiesConstruction firms, oil & gas, shipping

The Diving Industry encompasses recreational, research, and entertainment diving, often requiring basic certifications and working in controlled environments. Commercial Divers focus on underwater construction, inspection, and repair, requiring specialized certifications and working in industrial settings. While both involve underwater work, their certifications, work environments, and employer types differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the diving industry, and why are they important?

Success in the diving industry requires strong swimming ability, in-depth knowledge of diving theory and safety, and certification from recognized organizations like PADI or NAUI. Familiarity with scuba equipment, dive computers, and emergency procedures, along with relevant certifications such as Divemaster or Instructor, is essential. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills are crucial for ensuring safety and providing a positive experience for clients or team members. These skills and qualifications are vital to maintain operational safety, adhere to industry standards, and deliver high-quality underwater experiences.

What is the highest paying diving job?

The highest paying diving jobs are often commercial diving roles, such as underwater welders or salvage divers, which can earn six-figure salaries due to the specialized skills, certifications, and hazardous environments involved. These positions typically require advanced training, certifications, and physical fitness, and often involve working in challenging conditions for extended periods.

What are diving industry jobs?

Diving industry jobs encompass a range of careers that involve underwater work, including commercial diving, scuba instruction, underwater welding, marine biology, and underwater photography. Professionals in this field work in diverse environments such as oceans, lakes, and even underwater construction sites. Their tasks can include equipment maintenance, research, rescue operations, and leading recreational dives. The industry requires specialized training and certifications, as safety and technical knowledge are paramount. Opportunities exist in both recreational and commercial sectors, offering a variety of career paths for those passionate about underwater activities.

What is the 120 rule in diving?

The 120 rule in diving is a safety guideline used by divers to limit their no-decompression time, ensuring they do not exceed 120% of the no-decompression limit for a given depth. It helps divers plan their dives to reduce the risk of decompression sickness and is often used alongside dive tables and dive computers. Proper training and certification are essential for understanding and applying this rule safely.

What jobs can you do with diving?

Diving industry jobs include commercial diver, scuba instructor, underwater photographer, marine researcher, and dive shop operator. These roles often require certifications such as PADI or NAUI and involve working in environments like oceans, lakes, or pools, with skills in underwater navigation, safety procedures, and equipment maintenance.

Can thyroid patients do scuba diving?

Thyroid patients can generally participate in scuba diving if their condition is well-managed and stable, but they should consult with a healthcare professional before diving. Certain thyroid disorders or medications may increase risks, so medical clearance and possibly a dive medical exam are recommended for safety. Proper training and adherence to diving guidelines are essential for all divers, including those with health conditions.
More about Diving Industry jobs
What cities are hiring for Diving Industry jobs? Cities with the most Diving Industry job openings:
What states have the most Diving Industry jobs? States with the most job openings for Diving Industry jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Diving Industry jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Diving Industry jobs are:
Infographic showing various Diving Industry job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,841 per year, or $27.3 per hour.
Diver/Tender - ADCI

Diver/Tender - ADCI

Global Diving & Salvage, Inc.

Seattle, WA โ€ข On-site

$37.16 - $118.52/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

Global is currently seeking experienced Divers in the greater Seattle area.


The Diver/Tender will work in compliance with all applicable safety regulations and company procedures and will report directly to the Regional Dive Operations Manager.


Job Responsibilities

  • Set up, inspect, and break down dive systems, including mixed-gas (Heliox) equipment and support systems
  • Understand and operate surface-supplied and mixed-gas diving systems, including gas management and decompression procedures
  • Ensure full understanding of dive plans, including depth, bottom time, gas mixtures, and decompression obligations
  • Assist with topside construction and support work as directed
  • Assist divers with dressing/undressing and equipment checks
  • Monitor and tend the diver umbilicals continuously, maintaining awareness of diver location and status at all times
  • Verify proper function of all diver life-support systems prior to dive operations
  • Identify, report, and document equipment faults, hazards, near misses, and incidents
  • Monitor for and respond to symptoms of decompression sickness (DCS), oxygen toxicity, and inert gas narcosis
  • Maintain clear communication with the dive supervisor and team during all operations
  • Properly complete dive logs, gas logs, and all required regulatory and company documentation
  • Perform duties as Diver, Standby Diver, or Tender as assigned
  • Maintain and inspect diving equipment, including regulators, bailout systems, and dive panels
  • Ensure all personal diving equipment is properly certified and operational
  • Report any medical issues or recent treatments affecting fitness to dive
  • Maintain an accurate diver logbook and obtain supervisor sign-off after each dive
  • Read, understand, and comply with all company policies and applicable federal, state, and industry regulations


Qualifications


Education

  • High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent)
  • Graduate of a Commercial Diving Program Accredited by ACDE, ADCI, or a recognized equivalent

Required Qualifications


  • Strong understanding of decompression theory, dive tables, and dive computer use
  • Working knowledge of surface-supplied diving systems and support equipment
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States


Experience

  • 5+ years of commercial diving experience
  • 5+ years of construction or heavy civil/marine construction experience


Required Certifications & Credentials

  • Valid ADCI Diver Certification (Supervisor certification preferred for senior roles)
  • Oxygen Provider (DAN or equivalent)
  • First Aid / CPR / AED
  • 40-Hour HAZWOPER
  • OSHA 10 or 30 Construction Certification
  • TWIC Card (or ability to obtain)
  • Current commercial diving physical (or ability to pass)
  • Current certifications for all diver-owned equipment
  • Recent dive logs (last four required at time of application)


Background Requirements

  • Valid driverโ€™s license and proof of insurance
  • Ability to provide a 3-year driving record
  • Must pass pre-employment drug screening and background check


Physical Requirements

  • Ability to wear commercial diving gear (25โ€“30 lbs. helmet/hat) for extended durations
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. repetitively
  • Ability to work in confined spaces and low-visibility environments
  • Ability to work in extreme weather and water conditions


Availability & Scheduling

  • Day-to-day dive work and short and long-term local projects
  • Willingness to travel to project sites as required


Work Location

Seattle, WA


Union Representation Statement:

This is an hourly position governed by the Western Washington NW Carpenters Association Collective Bargaining agreement.


Summary hourly range: $37.16 โ€“ $118.52, per Schedule A, with opportunities for overtime.

Union members will be eligible for the benefits provided by the Union. Union benefits include:

  • Medical & Prescription
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Time Loss
  • Life and AD&D Insurance
  • EAP
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Vacation Fund
  • Vacation Credit Depending on Hours Worked


***Newly hired employees will accrue sick leave at a rate of 1 hour for every 40 hours worked in Washington State, as per applicable law.


Equal Employment Opportunity

Global is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the objective of Global Diving & Salvage, Inc. to obtain qualified employees consistent with position requirements: to seek, employ, promote, and treat all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion/creed, handicap/disability, marital status, genetic information/history, military/veteran status, or any other characteristic or condition protected by law.

If you are a candidate with a disability in need of accommodation in the application process, please contact 206-623-062.


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