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Diving Tender Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ballard

Commercial Diver / Tender

Loomis, CA · On-site

... diving being performed • Current ADCI Compliant Dive Physical • Current First Aid, CPR, AED ... tenders, and Ballard personnel to plan for safe operations for commercial diving activities and ...

Phoenix International Holdings Inc

Welder/Diver

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Bring to the attention of the Diving Supervisor any questionable items. Be alert for the safety of others. * Assist in the training of new personnel or tenders. * Remain awake and in the vicinity of ...

Aquatic Solutions Limited

Diver / Tender

Campbell, CA · On-site

We are a world-class diving crew looking to expand our team. Established company in the industry over 25 years. We are looking for someone who can think outside the box and who can be decisive in a ...

All JobsDiving Tender JobsDiving Tender Jobs in California

Diving Tender information

See California salary details

$16

$31

$37

How much do diving tender jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for diving tender in California is $31.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.55 and $36.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Diving Tender vs Diving Supervisor?

AspectDiving TenderDiving Supervisor
CertificationsBasic safety and diving support certificationsAdvanced certifications, including diving supervisor licenses
Work EnvironmentAssists divers underwater, handles equipment, supports diving operationsOversees diving activities, manages safety protocols, supervises divers
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in offshore, marine, and construction industriesTypically in larger projects, offshore platforms, or commercial diving operations

In summary, a Diving Tender primarily supports divers and handles equipment, requiring basic certifications. A Diving Supervisor oversees diving operations, ensuring safety and compliance, and holds advanced certifications. Both roles are essential in underwater work but differ significantly in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are some common challenges diving tenders face when supporting dive operations, and how can they prepare for them?

Diving Tenders often encounter challenges such as managing complex equipment setups, ensuring clear communication between the dive team and surface support, and responding to emergencies quickly. To prepare, it's important to be thoroughly familiar with all diving gear, regularly practice safety protocols, and maintain strong situational awareness. Tenders also benefit from ongoing training and teamwork to anticipate and adapt to the dynamic conditions of each dive operation.

What is a diving tender?

Diving Tenders are professionals who assist commercial or professional divers during underwater operations. Their responsibilities include preparing and maintaining diving equipment, monitoring communication and safety protocols, and providing topside support to ensure the diver’s safety. Diving Tenders also help divers suit up, manage umbilical lines, and are trained to respond to emergencies. They play a critical role in the overall safety and efficiency of diving projects.

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

To thrive as a Diving Tender, you need knowledge of diving operations, safety protocols, and basic first aid, typically supported by completion of a commercial diving program or relevant certifications. Familiarity with diving equipment setup, maintenance tools, and communication systems like hardwire or wireless intercoms is essential. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this support role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring diver safety, smooth underwater operations, and rapid response to emergencies.
What are popular job titles related to Diving Tender jobs in California? For Diving Tender jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Diving Tender jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Diving Tender jobs in California are:
Diving Tender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diving Tender job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 27% As Needed, and 73% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,279 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Diver/Tender

Global Diving & Salvage, Inc.

West Sacramento, CA • On-site

$66.26 - $234.56/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

Global is currently seeking a Diver/Tender based in Sacramento, CA. This person will report to the company’s Regional Dive Operations Manager. The responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Undertake dives and other duties as directed by the Supervisor;
  • A Tender who dives shall be subject to the duties & responsibilities of a diver within the limitations of their assignment.
  • Ensure that personal diving equipment is working correctly and is suitable for the planned dive;
  • Ensure complete understanding of the dive plan and is competent to carry out the planned task;
  • Know the routine and emergency procedures;
  • Report any medical problem or symptoms experienced during or after the dive;
  • Ability to identify and report any equipment faults, other potential hazards, near misses, or accidents;
  • Maintain a diver's logbook, keep it up to date, and have the Supervisor sign it after each dive.

Required Skills

  • Previous maritime experience and knowledge of diving support equipment
  • Must possess working knowledge of industry requirements for equipment
  • All employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Must have a valid driver’s license and valid car insurance, and submit a driving record for the past three years
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in a random drug & alcohol testing program
  • Able to pass a background check
  • Must submit the last four dive logs
  • Read, understand, and comply with all employer policies and applicable governmental regulations as they relate to their qualifications or performance while engaging in diving operations.
  • Current certifications of all diver-owned equipment (i.e., Hat, bottle, etc.)
  • Must possess a current diving physical or be able to pass a diving physical
  • Ability to wear a commercial diving hat, 25-30lbs, for approximately 4 hours daily
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions: rain, sleet, storm, snow, heat, etc.
  • Ability to work on remote or distant projects as needed for several months at a time
  • Ability to lift 50lbs repetitively
  • 24-hour and 7-day-a-week availability based on project or emergency response needs
  • Current ADCI Card
  • Oxygen Provider/DANO2
  • First/Aid CPR
  • GDS mandatory training and other required programs
  • Must be eligible to enter or be a member of a local union

Required Experience

Must be a graduate of a commercial diver training program accredited by the Association of Diving Educators (ACDE) or others as recognized in IMCA.

Preferred Credentials

  • 1-3 years of underwater diving experience
  • 1-3 years of experience in the construction industry
  • Must possess or be able to obtain a TWIC Card
  • Ability to work outside the United States
  • IMCA Certified/International Certification cards
  • NITROX /Enriched Air Oxygen
  • HAZWOPER
  • OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour construction course certificate
  • Current Passport
  • Boaters Card (California state boaters' card)

Work Location: Sacramento, CA
* Qualified candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. The company will not provide a work visa or relocation for this position.


Union Representation Statement:

This hourly position is governed by the Northern California Local 34 Pile Drivers, Divers, Carpenters, Bridge, Wharf, and Dock Builders Union Collective Bargaining agreement.

Summary hourly range: $66.26 – $234.56 per Schedule A, with opportunities for overtime.

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

  • Health & Welfare
  • Pension
  • Annuity
  • Vacation
  • Work Fee
  • Apprenticeship
  • Vacation/Holiday/Sick Leave Admin.
  • Calif. Construction Advancement Program or “I.P.”
  • Contract Administration
  • Carpenters International Training Fund
  • Geographic & Marketing/LMCC

Per applicable law, newly hired employees in California will accrue sick time at a rate of 1 hour for every 30 hours worked.

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 206-623-0621 or email hr@gdiving.com.