Navy Diver
Clearwater, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Clearwater, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
PR · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Delray Beach, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Delray Beach, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Margate, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Margate, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
West Palm Beach, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
West Palm Beach, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Diver - Midwest
$34.32 - $61.72/hr
Our Divers will work below the surface of water to inspect, repair, move, and install equipment and ... Recover objects by placing rigging around sunken objects, hooking rigging to crane lines, and ...
Diver - Midwest
$34.32 - $61.72/hr
Our Divers will work below the surface of water to inspect, repair, move, and install equipment and ... Recover objects by placing rigging around sunken objects, hooking rigging to crane lines, and ...
Navy Diver
Saint Thomas, VI · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Saint Thomas, VI · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
New Port Richey, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
New Port Richey, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Hialeah, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Hialeah, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Pembroke Pines, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Pembroke Pines, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Sarasota, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Sarasota, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Lake Worth, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Lake Worth, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Ponce, PR · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Ponce, PR · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Winter Haven, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Winter Haven, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Plantation, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Plantation, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Bradenton, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Bradenton, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Miami, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Miami, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Temple Terrace, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Temple Terrace, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Navy Diver
Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site
About As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and ... Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions. * Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
Recovery Diver information
See salary details
$11.54 - $14.53
9% of jobs
$14.53 - $17.53
10% of jobs
$18.57 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$17.53 - $20.52
19% of jobs
The median wage is $21.71 / hr.
$20.52 - $23.51
31% of jobs
$24.47 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$23.51 - $26.51
19% of jobs
$26.51 - $29.50
9% of jobs
$29.50 - $32.50
3% of jobs
$32.50 - $35.49
0% of jobs
$35.49 - $38.48
0% of jobs
$38.48 - $41.48
0% of jobs
$41.48 - $44.47
0% of jobs
$11
$23
$44
How much do recovery diver jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for recovery diver in the United States is $23.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
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 recovery divers, understanding this rule helps plan safe dives and avoid decompression sickness, especially when performing multiple dives in a day. Proper dive planning and adherence to dive tables or computers are essential for safety.
What are the typical challenges faced by recovery divers during underwater search and retrieval operations?
Recovery divers often face challenging conditions such as low visibility, cold water temperatures, strong currents, and the presence of debris underwater. These factors can make locating and safely retrieving objects or remains particularly demanding. Divers must also work efficiently as part of a coordinated team, often in high-pressure situations where time is critical. Adhering to strict safety protocols and maintaining clear communication with surface support teams are essential for ensuring both the success of the mission and diver safety.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Recovery Diver, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Recovery Diver, you need advanced scuba diving skills, dive certifications (such as PADI Rescue or commercial diving credentials), and knowledge of underwater search and recovery techniques. Familiarity with specialized recovery equipment, sonar systems, and underwater communication tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and composure under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and effective underwater recovery operations in challenging and potentially hazardous environments.
What are recovery divers?
Recovery divers are specialized professionals trained to locate and retrieve objects, vehicles, or bodies from underwater environments. They often work with law enforcement, rescue teams, or salvage companies to assist in accident investigations, evidence recovery, and environmental cleanups. Their work requires advanced diving skills, knowledge of underwater search techniques, and the ability to operate in challenging and sometimes hazardous conditions. Recovery divers play a crucial role in supporting public safety and maritime operations.
Can saturation divers earn over $300000 with years of experience?
Saturation divers, a specialized type of commercial diver, can potentially earn over $300,000 annually with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and high-risk project involvement. However, such earnings are typically achieved through long-term projects, overtime, and working in challenging environments, and are not guaranteed for all professionals in the field.
How much do recovery divers get paid?
Recovery divers typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Pay can increase with certifications, specialized skills, and working in high-demand environments such as shipwrecks or underwater construction sites.
What is the difference between Recovery Diver vs Commercial Diver?
| Aspect | Recovery Diver | Commercial Diver |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Open water, advanced, rescue, specialty certifications | Commercial diving certifications, such as ADC or IMCA |
| Work Environment | Underwater recovery, salvage, search operations | Underwater construction, welding, inspection, and repair |
| Industry Usage | Salvage, rescue, environmental cleanup | Oil & gas, infrastructure, ship repair |
Recovery Divers focus on underwater salvage and rescue operations, requiring certifications in open water and rescue diving. Commercial Divers perform underwater construction, inspection, and repair, often holding specialized commercial diving certifications. While both work underwater, Recovery Divers typically operate in salvage and recovery scenarios, whereas Commercial Divers are involved in industrial projects. The roles differ in scope, certifications, and work environments, but both are vital in underwater operations.
What is the highest paying diver job?
The highest paying diver jobs are often in commercial diving, such as underwater welding, salvage, or oil and gas exploration, which can pay six-figure salaries. These roles typically require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and specialized skills in hazardous environments. Commercial divers working in these fields often earn the most due to the technical demands and risks involved.
More about Recovery Diver jobs
What cities are hiring for Recovery Diver jobs? Cities with the most Recovery Diver job openings:
What states have the most Recovery Diver jobs? States with the most job openings for Recovery Diver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Recovery Diver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Recovery Diver jobs are:
United States Navy rating
6.3
Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
38th of 46 rated military and defense
Job description
About
As a Navy Diver, you will be part of an elite team performing underwater salvage, repair, and rescue missions in some of the most challenging environments.
What You’ll Do
- Conduct salvage, recovery, and rescue missions.
- Repair and maintain ships and submarines.
- Operate advanced diving equipment and hyperbaric chambers.
- Train in deep-sea diving and high-risk underwater operations.
- Support EOD and special warfare missions.
Qualifications
- U.S. citizen, 17–31 years old.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Meet physical and medical requirements.
- Strong swimming ability and ability to qualify for a security clearance.
Training and Benefits
- Advanced diving and survival training at Navy Diving School.
- Competitive salary with bonuses and specialty pay.
- Full medical and dental coverage.
- Housing allowance and retirement benefits.
- GI Bill® education benefits.
What United States Navy employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About US Navy
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Washington, DC, US