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Diving Instructor Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Lifeguard/Swim Instructor

Issaquah, WA ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Set up ropes, ladders, pool lift, diving boards, and other equipment for different types of swim ... Safety Instructor Certification preferred. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Knowledge of swim ...

Lifeguard/Swim Instructor

Issaquah, WA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Set up ropes, ladders, pool lift, diving boards, and other equipment for different types of swim ... Water Safety Instructor Certification preferred. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities * Knowledge of swim ...

Lifeguard/Swim Instructor

Issaquah, WA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Aquatics Instructor Looking for a part-time job? Are you a swimmer or have been in the past? We ... Set up ropes, ladders, pool lift, diving boards, and other equipment for different types of swim ...

Lifeguard/Swim Instructor

Issaquah, WA ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Set up ropes, ladders, pool lift, diving boards, and other equipment for different types of swim ... Water Safety Instructor Certification preferred. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities * Knowledge of swim ...

Lifeguard/Swim Instructor

Issaquah, WA ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Set up ropes, ladders, pool lift, diving boards, and other equipment for different types of swim ... Water Safety Instructor Certification preferred. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities * Knowledge of swim ...

Lifeguard/Water Safety Instructor

Everett, WA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Water Safety Instructor Instructs various levels of swimming including various strokes (e.g., front ... Instructs basic diving, safety and survival skills to students. Works with lifeguards to ensure ...

Lifeguard/Water Safety Instructor

Everett, WA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Water Safety Instructor Instructs various levels of swimming including various strokes (e.g., front ... Instructs basic diving, safety and survival skills to students. Works with lifeguards to ensure ...

Swim Coach

Silverdale, WA ยท On-site

$19.08 - $25.17/hr

Must be able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards. Experience ... YMCA Lifeguard and Principles of Competitive Swimming and Diving certification (preferred). * Able ...

Swim Coach

Silverdale, WA ยท On-site

$19.08 - $25.17/hr

Must be able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards. Experience ... YMCA Lifeguard and Principles of Competitive Swimming and Diving certification (preferred). * Able ...

Head Swim Coach

Sumner, WA ยท On-site

$19.61 - $24.76/hr

You are able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards. * You have ... YMCA Lifeguard and Principles of Competitive Swimming and Diving certification. * Must be able to ...

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Diving Instructor information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$6

$16

$19

How much do diving instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for diving instructor in Seattle, WA is $16.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.89 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.
Infographic showing various Diving Instructor job openings in Seattle, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 48% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,089 per year, or $16.9 per hour.
Lifeguard/Swim Instructor

Lifeguard/Swim Instructor

City of Issaquah

Issaquah, WA โ€ข On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Other

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Summary Looking for a part-time job. Are you a swimmer or have been in the past. We would love to have you join our Aquatics team.

This is a great opportunity for you to teach others what you know about swimming and water safety. You'll get to interact with community members as they exercise, learn how to swim, or just have fun at the Julius Boehm Pool. Our goal is for all staff to both lifeguard and teach, but you can start with teaching and work towards your lifeguarding certification along the way.

We offer lifeguard classes throughout the year, so there will be many opportunities to get lifeguard certified. Come join our team. Our mission.

We enhance lives through public service. Equity Statement The City of Issaquah strives to be a diverse workforce that is representative of the community we serve. We value a variety of perspectives and life experiences and encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.

Applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status under federal, state and local laws. We believe diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to the success of our City operations Essential Functions Lead and instruct program participants in the rules and proper participation in swimming related activities. Serve as a swim class instructor Ensure proper procedures are followed in program activities, both with regard to safety and program guidelines.

Perform lifeguard responsibilities on a regular basis. Attend work on a regular, reliable, and punctual basis. Rescue persons in distress, in danger of drowning or incurring an injury.

Ensure proper behavior on the part of swim or other assigned class participants and respond quickly to potentially hazardous situations and accidents. Teach and mentor new swim instructors and lifeguards. Maintain relevant program records and prepare related reports.

Set up ropes, ladders, pool lift, diving boards, and other equipment for different types of swim lessons, including drop-in swim, water exercise classes, and occasional swim meets. Administer first aid in the event of an injury, participate in all first aid and safety drills. Perform deck cleaning and some pool maintenance.

May be responsible for teaching CPR, First Aid, and/or Lifeguard Training. Qualifications Red Cross Lifeguard Training Certification preferred (City will provide training) CPR for the Professional Rescuer Certification preferred (City will provide training) Water Safety Instructor Certification preferred. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Knowledge of swim instruction and lifeguard methods and techniques.

Knowledge of effective safety standards and precautions related to swimming, swim instruction, and responsibilities of a lifeguard. Knowledge of swim exercise instruction methods. Ability to assist in instructional tasks.

Ability to perform administrative tasks, such as record keeping, report preparation, and similar tasks. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to prepare and maintain detailed program records.

Ability to work some weekends, or other irregular hours as necessary. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, agencies, and the public. Ability, with assistance, to lift a person weighing 200 pounds while the person is secured to a backboard up onto the deck while standing in the water or treading water.

Ability to stand on cement floor for up to 8 hours per day. Ability to sit in a lifeguard tower for up to 2 hours at a time. All staff are required to pass bi-monthly critical skills assessment, which consists of swimming 200 yards in 3:45, retrieving a 10 lb brick from a pool depth of 12 ft., and treading water for 2 minutes using legs only

Ability to actively participate in program activities, requiring varying degrees of physical exertion; this includes lifting children weighing between 30 and 80 lbs. during swim lessons. Instruct swim lessons which require lifting, twisting, bending, and performing swimming skills needed to demonstrate skill to participants.