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Open Water Scuba Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NARCOSIS INC

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PADI Scuba Instructor

Tarpon Springs, FL · On-site

$1K - $2K/wk

PADI Instructor to teach Open Water through Assistant. Instructor. Summer camps if possible. Company Description A small family-owned dive shop that runs its own charter boat and retail store. We are ...

Texas State Aquarium

Aquarist I

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

$19.80/hr

Open Water SCUBA certification * Certifications in First aid, CPR, AED and Emergency Oxygen Other This position offers an attractive benefits/vacation package including health, dental, vision ...

SeaWorld

Dive Safety Officer

San Diego, CA · On-site

A current open water SCUBA instructor from a nationally or internationally recognized agency. * Minimum 2 years of diving experience and 1 year experience as a diving instructor. * A current CPR ...

Texas State Aquarium

Trainer I/II

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

... • Open Water SCUBA certification required. • First Aid, CPR/AED, and Emergency Oxygen Provider certifications required (may be obtained after hire). • Successful completion of a swim test ...

Texas State Aquarium

Trainer I/II

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

... • Open Water SCUBA certification required. • First Aid, CPR/AED, and Emergency Oxygen Provider certifications required (may be obtained after hire). • Successful completion of a swim test ...

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Open Water Scuba Instructor information

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How much do open water scuba instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for open water scuba instructor in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Open Water Scuba Instructors during training sessions, and how are they typically addressed?

Open Water Scuba Instructors frequently encounter challenges such as managing students' anxiety, adapting to varying skill levels, and ensuring safety in unpredictable underwater conditions. Instructors address these by fostering a supportive learning environment, using clear communication, and providing individualized attention when needed. Additionally, they follow strict safety protocols and conduct thorough pre-dive briefings to prepare students and mitigate risks. Collaboration with dive shop staff and other instructors also helps ensure smooth logistical operations and student progress.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Open Water Scuba Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Open Water Scuba Instructor, you need strong diving skills, comprehensive knowledge of dive theory, and a recognized instructor certification such as PADI or SSI. Familiarity with dive computers, safety equipment, and course management systems is essential for teaching and supervising students. Excellent communication, patience, and leadership are crucial soft skills for ensuring effective instruction and student confidence. These skills and qualities are vital for creating a safe, enjoyable learning environment and maintaining high training standards.

What are Open Water Scuba Instructors?

Open Water Scuba Instructors are certified professionals who teach individuals how to safely scuba dive in open water environments, such as oceans, lakes, or quarries. They provide instruction on diving theory, safety procedures, equipment use, and underwater skills. Instructors also supervise practice sessions, assess students' abilities, and certify new divers upon successful completion of training. Their role is crucial in ensuring that divers are competent, confident, and prepared for underwater exploration.

What is the difference between Open Water Scuba Instructor vs Dive Master?

AspectOpen Water Scuba InstructorDive Master
Certifications RequiredOpen Water Diver, Divemaster, Instructor CertificationOpen Water Diver, Divemaster
Work EnvironmentTeaching students, leading dives, trainingAssisting instructors, guiding dives, supervising
Industry UsageLeading instructor-led courses worldwideSupporting instructors, leading dives as a guide

While both roles involve diving and require similar certifications, an Open Water Scuba Instructor is qualified to teach and certify new divers, whereas a Dive Master primarily assists instructors and leads dives without teaching certification. The instructor role involves more training responsibilities, making it a step above the Dive Master in the professional hierarchy.

What states have the most Open Water Scuba Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Open Water Scuba Instructor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Open Water Scuba Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Open Water Scuba Instructor jobs are:
Open Water Scuba Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Open Water Scuba Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 47% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,749 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

PADI Scuba Instructor

NARCOSIS INC

Tarpon Springs, FL • On-site

$1K - $2K/wk

Full-time

Posted 2 hours ago

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Job description

PADI Instructor to teach Open Water through Assistant. Instructor. Summer camps if possible.

Company Description

A small family-owned dive shop that runs its own charter boat and retail store. We are also a full-service shop.