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Entry Level Scuba Diving Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Scuba Diving Instructor information

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$35.5K

$68.7K

$103.5K

How much do entry level scuba diving instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level scuba diving instructor in the United States is $68,677.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a scuba diving instructor?

To become a scuba diving instructor, you must first obtain a certification such as the Open Water Diver and then complete the Divemaster certification. After gaining experience, you can enroll in a professional instructor training course, such as the Instructor Development Course (IDC), and pass the certification exams to become qualified to teach scuba diving courses.

Can saturation divers earn over $300000 with years of experience?

Saturation divers, who work in specialized underwater environments using complex life support systems, can potentially earn over $300,000 with extensive experience and high-risk assignments. However, such earnings are typically reserved for highly experienced divers working in offshore oil and gas industries, not for entry-level roles. Entry-level saturation diving instructors generally earn significantly less, with higher salaries possible as they gain certifications and experience in the field.

Is it hard to become a scuba diving instructor?

Becoming a scuba diving instructor requires completing open water and advanced certifications, gaining experience as a certified diver, and passing instructor training courses that include skills assessment and safety procedures. The process demands physical fitness, strong swimming skills, and knowledge of diving equipment and safety protocols. It typically takes several months to a year to qualify, depending on individual progress and training program availability.

What is the 120 rule in diving?

The 120 rule in diving states that a diver should not exceed 120 minutes of total bottom time at depths shallower than 60 feet (18 meters) without mandatory decompression stops. For entry-level scuba diving instructors, understanding this rule helps ensure safe dive planning and adherence to no-decompression limits, especially when guiding new divers. Proper training and dive computers are essential tools to monitor these limits during dives.

What is the difference between Entry Level Scuba Diving Instructor vs Open Water Scuba Instructor?

AspectEntry Level Scuba Diving InstructorOpen Water Scuba Instructor
Certifications RequiredBasic instructor certification (e.g., PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor)Advanced instructor certification, including specialty and instructor ratings
Work EnvironmentBeginner-focused classes, introductory dives, resort or dive shop settingsLeading open water courses, supervising dives, teaching new divers
Industry UsageEntry-level teaching roles, assisting senior instructorsFull instructor roles, responsible for training divers in open water

The main difference is that an Entry Level Scuba Diving Instructor is typically a beginner instructor focusing on introductory courses, while an Open Water Scuba Instructor is qualified to teach open water courses independently and handle more advanced training. Both roles require instructor certifications, but the Open Water Instructor has more experience and responsibilities in the industry.

More about Entry Level Scuba Diving Instructor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Scuba Diving Instructor jobs? The most popular types of Scuba Diving Instructor jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Scuba Diving Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Scuba Diving Instructor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Scuba Diving Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 14% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,677 per year, or $33 per hour.
Marine Mammal System Assistant I 04130 LBYD Federal

Marine Mammal System Assistant I 04130 LBYD Federal

North Wind Group

Silverdale, WA

$19 - $19.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Location: Silverdale, Washington
Title: Marine Mammal System Assistant I
Schedule (FT/PT): Regular Full Time
Travel Required: No
Government Clearance: Secret

At LBYD Federal, "Large Firm Expertise, Small Firm Responsiveness", is the motto that we put into action every day.

We perform high quality engineering, architecture, and professional services in a fast-paced and collaborative environment, with our employees being our greatest asset. We offer you the opportunity to work on exciting and challenging projects for a wide variety of federal clients nationwide. LBYD Federal prides ourselves in being responsive to our clients and partners by empowering you to make decisions and build trust on the front lines.

We provide exceptional opportunities for you to develop and grow your career through education, training, certifications, work assignments, and advancement. We also strive to maintain a 98% employee retention rate, by providing exceptional growth opportunities across affiliated business lines including Engineering, Environmental, Construction, and Mission Support activities.

LBYD Federal has a highly competitive benefits package including 401(k) matching and medical, dental, and life insurance options. We have a formalized mentorship program, professional development through North Wind University, a health & wellness program, and an employee service awards program to enhance your experience and job satisfaction. Additionally, we support the communities where we live and work by taking part in community fundraisers and volunteering through local organizations. LBYD Federal is a diverse, veteran-friendly firm that provides the right environment for leaders and results-oriented professionals to thrive. Come join our team!

POSITION PURPOSE:

The Marine Mammal Systems Assistant I (MMA I) will support 24/7 operations by working closely with veterinary and biotech staff in providing superior care to the mammal complement through vitamins/medication delivery, issuance of proper diets and routine medical procedures. Each animal receives customized care based on their individual health requirements, and husbandry behaviors are developed and maintained based on animal specific needs.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Monitor and observe animal behaviors and wellness routinely and report to onsite personnel
  • Complete animal working sessions to include body inspections and assessment of animal's wellbeing (behavior and health)
  • Engage with animals through working sessions rehearsing and executing multiple behaviors to be performed in open water
  • Record information about each session and the animal's performance
  • Perform feedings and administration of food supplements
  • Assist with basic animal husbandry
  • Provide diving support to operations (to include enclosure inspection and maintenance)
  • Support fish house operations to prepare individually formulated rations designed to meet each animal's specific need
  • Operate a variety of watercraft
  • May be trained to become a designated secondary handler for specific animals
  • Perform tasks related to the care and training of marine mammals for specific marine mammal projects
  • Deter the presence of nuisance animal while following established processes and procedures
  • Requires ability to travel with the animal for an extended period of time anywhere in the world, that could potentially include harsh environments and risk locations, within a 72-hour notice

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Marine Biology or other related field and basic open water scuba diving certification with minimum of one (1) year experience


OR

  • One (1) year animal training experience and basic open water scuba diving certification with minimum of one (1) year experience and high school diploma (or equivalent)


OR

  • Operational and navigation experience on small boats (40' or under), USCG license (operator of un-inspected passenger vessels/6pac - 46 CFR 10.467) or higher/U.S. Navy Coxswain's certification, and operational experience using maritime navigational devices and basic open water scuba diving certification with minimum of one (1) year experience and high school diploma (or equivalent)


Skills and Abilities:

  • Must be able to work flexible hours to include nights, holidays and weekends
  • Must pass a swim and dive test in addition to having a basic scuba certification
  • Work well in a team-oriented environment
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Commitment to the safety of the project, team members and animals through embracing safety culture, policies and procedures


Special Requirements:

  • Be able to obtain a government security clearance prior to starting
  • US Citizenship is required to meet security requirements for this position
  • Must successfully pass swim test and dive physical

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Animal training experience
  • Advanced scuba diving certifications (i.e., dive master, instructor, commercial diver certification, 1st or 2nd class Navy Diver classification)
  • Current First Aid and CPR Certification

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs
  • Must be able to pull oneself out of the water and onto deck and boat platforms without the use of a ladder
  • Able to pass the Maritime Vessel Operation Color Blind Test as directed by the contract
  • Physically qualified to perform dive operations
  • Able to stoop, bend, squat, climb, kneel, talk and hear
  • Stand or walk for extended periods of time
  • Spend extended periods of time on a water vessel in different sea states

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

  • Job will require working outdoors on boats, docks and in water in all weather elements and conditions

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION:
North Wind offers a competitive pay and benefits package to include health, life, and disability insurance benefits, 401(k) with company match, generous paid leave and tuition reimbursement for eligible employees. As a company, we are committed to employee wellness, professional development, and work-life balance. We value safety, reliability, and commitment to our people! For more information about our benefits or hiring philosophy, visit the North Wind Career Opportunities Page.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The nature of those accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis. If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact our Helpline +1.208.528.8718 or use the Request for Reasonable Accommodation form to get assistance.

North Wind is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, religion, or other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Proof of citizenship will be required as a condition of employment.

Candidates may be required to obtain and hold a Secret or Higher US Government Clearance.

Employment Type: OTHER

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About North Wind Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Wind Group is a renowned engineering, construction, environmental, and technical services firm based in Idaho Falls, ID, United States. This U.S owned firm, with its robust portfolio, offers a wide range of services including, but not limited to, infrastructure, waste management, remediation, environmental, and construction services. North Wind Group was established in 1997 and since then, it has expanded its operations across the United States, becoming a national provider of high-quality, cost-effective technical and engineering solutions. The company's core values express its commitment to safety, integrity, customer service, innovation, and teamwork, which are all critical to its mission of delivering innovative and sustainable solutions aimed to protect the environment and improve the lives of communities.

Industry

Government relations and lobbying services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Idaho Falls, ID, US

Year founded

1997

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