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Diving Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arlington County, VA

Aquatics Instructor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$22.10 - $49.22/hr

Specialty programs include diving, water aerobics, adapted, and beginner, intermediate and advanced ... Swimming instructors for all ages and skill levels; * Diving instructors; * Water Exercise ...

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Diving Instructor information

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$5

$14

$17

How much do diving instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for diving instructor in the United States is $14.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Diving Instructors face when leading groups of students with varying skill levels?

Diving Instructors often encounter the challenge of managing groups with mixed abilities, ranging from complete beginners to more experienced divers. Ensuring everyone's safety while providing personalized instruction requires strong observation skills and adaptability. Instructors must be able to quickly assess each student's comfort and ability underwater, adjusting their teaching style and pace accordingly. Open communication, patience, and effective group management help create a supportive learning environment for all participants.

What do scuba instructors get paid?

Scuba instructors typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Many also receive tips and benefits, and some work seasonally or part-time, which can affect overall income.

Is it hard to become a dive instructor?

Becoming a dive instructor requires obtaining relevant certifications such as the Open Water Diver and Instructor certifications from recognized agencies, completing training programs, and gaining practical teaching experience. The process involves rigorous training, assessments, and often a minimum number of logged dives, making it a challenging but achievable career for those committed to diving and teaching.

What are Diving Instructors?

Diving Instructors are certified professionals who teach individuals how to safely scuba dive and explore underwater environments. They provide instruction on diving techniques, safety procedures, equipment usage, and emergency protocols. Diving Instructors also supervise training sessions, conduct certification courses, and often guide recreational dives. Their primary responsibility is to ensure students gain the skills and confidence needed to dive responsibly and enjoyably.

What is the difference between Diving Instructor vs Scuba Diving Instructor?

AspectDiving InstructorScuba Diving Instructor
CertificationsOpen Water Diver, Dive Instructor certifications (e.g., PADI, SSI)Open Water Diver, Dive Instructor certifications (e.g., PADI, SSI)
Work EnvironmentFrequent diving sessions, training in pools and open water, travel to dive sitesSimilar to Diving Instructor, often working at dive shops, resorts, or liveaboards
Industry UsageGeneral term for diving trainersSpecific term emphasizing scuba diving instruction

Both roles involve training divers and require similar certifications. The term "Scuba Diving Instructor" specifically highlights instruction in scuba diving techniques, often used interchangeably with "Diving Instructor." The main difference lies in terminology rather than job duties or environment.

Can thyroid patients do scuba diving?

Diving instructors with thyroid conditions can generally scuba dive if their condition is well-managed and they have medical clearance. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before diving, as thyroid issues can affect energy levels and overall health, which are critical for safe diving. Proper certification and health assessments are essential for ensuring safety in the diving environment.

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

To thrive as a Diving Instructor, you need certified dive training (such as PADI or SSI), in-depth knowledge of diving safety protocols, and experience in underwater navigation and rescue. Familiarity with dive computers, underwater communication devices, and first aid/CPR certifications is typically required. Exceptional communication, patience, and leadership skills help instructors teach students of varying abilities and respond effectively to emergencies. These competencies are vital for ensuring student safety, delivering quality instruction, and fostering confidence in underwater environments.

What qualifications do you need to be a diving instructor?

To become a diving instructor, you need to hold a recognized open water diver certification, such as PADI Open Water Diver, and complete instructor training courses like the PADI Divemaster and Instructor Development Course. Additionally, candidates must have a minimum number of logged dives, typically around 100, and be certified in CPR and first aid. Strong swimming skills, good communication abilities, and physical fitness are also essential.
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Diving Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diving Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,833 per year, or $14.8 per hour.
NDSTC Diving Instructor

NDSTC Diving Instructor

First Division Consulting

Panama City, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Come Join Our Team! First Division Consulting (FirstDiv) provides program management, acquisition, logistics, field service representative, explosive ordnance disposal, and personnel support services to Department of Defense and Federal Government Agencies. We are a Small Business Administration certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business and a Small Disadvantaged Business. If you are looking for a company who has an overall rating on Glassdoor of 4.8 and who puts their people first, then continue to read below and join the FirstDiv team!

First Division Consulting is seeking highly trained and competent Diving Instructors to support current operations at the NDSTC diving center located in Panama City, Florida. This Position is contingent upon award and actively receiving candidates at this time for assessment and selection purposes.

Each Candidate Instructor shall have successfully performed in a US Armed Forces active-duty Military First Class Diver or higher or Diving Medical Technician (DMT) billet for a minimum of six years. The instructor must have performed Instruction / duties within the previous 5 years. All contract instructors supporting NDSTC shall be capable and qualified to instruct students in training tanks, pier side, and in open water environments.

The Contractor shall:

  • Comply with dive physical requirements.
  • Comply with U.S. Navy diving tactics, techniques, and procedures IAW the U.S. Navy Diving curriculum.
  • Comply with Diving Operational Readiness Inspection and Diving Safety Assessment requirements as delineated by OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series).
  • Conduct a minimum of eight dives per year.
  • Comply with all applicable job sheets and diving supervisor’s direction.
  • Qualify as a Navy Material Maintenance Management (3-M) 301 Maintenance Person within 30 days of reporting to the command.
  • Utilize only U.S. Navy diving life support equipment furnished by the Government (not including personal dive gear referenced in Para 4.2).
  • Prepare a personalized lesson plan for each subject matter area assigned using the lesson plans furnished by NSEOD or NDSTC.
  • The instructor shall be qualified in the diving equipment being instructed (SCUBA, MK16, MK25, or Surface Supplied Dive Rig).

Requirements

  • Dive NEC/MOS - Q.
  • At Least Six Years of Experience.
  • Experience within previous 5 Years.
  • Dive Qualified.
  • Instructor Training (IT) Course Completed.
  • CPR Qualified and Current.
  • Current Dive Physical.
  • Current Physical Examination / Medical Screening
  • Current Psychological Evaluation (High-Risk Training).
  • Drug Screening (High-Risk Training).
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
  • Will be required to follow all Federal COVID-19 protocols as they pertain to contractors.

**This position is contingent upon award of contract**

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, STD, LTD, holidays, PTO and 401(k) plan with company match.

First Division Consulting is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, skills, and abilities. All fully qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and/or local laws prohibiting discrimination by protected classes.