1

Recovery Diver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... diver to support marine field operations and environmental services projects in South Florida. This position will support vessel-based field operations, underwater inspections, marine debris recovery ...

... diver to support marine field operations and environmental services projects in South Florida. This position will support vessel-based field operations, underwater inspections, marine debris recovery ...

Ocean Program Manager

Chelmsford, MA · On-site

$134K/yr

We are developing uncrewed systems (unmanned underwater vehicles, surface craft, launch and recovery systems), marine systems (submarine/shipboard equipment, diver equipment), and ocean sensing ...

Ocean Program Manager

Chelmsford, MA · On-site

$134K/yr

We are developing uncrewed systems (unmanned underwater vehicles, surface craft, launch and recovery systems), marine systems (submarine/shipboard equipment, diver equipment), and ocean sensing ...

We are developing uncrewed systems (unmanned underwater vehicles, surface craft, launch and recovery systems), marine systems (submarine/shipboard equipment, diver equipment), and ocean sensing ...

Behavioral Health Technician

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Behavioral Health Technician (Residential) Harbor Recovery Center 2nd shift and weekends Job Duties ... diver's license. Benefit package includes employee health, dental and vision insurance, PTO, ten ...

Willing Hands grows, gleans, and recovers nourishing fresh food and distributes it for free to our neighbors in need through a network of 85 human service organizations in the greater Upper Valley ...

Showing results 41-60

Recovery Diver information

See salary details

$11

$23

$44

How much do recovery diver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 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.

How much does a Rescue Diver make a year?

A Rescue Diver typically earns between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the industry sector such as recreational diving, commercial diving, or rescue operations. Higher salaries are often associated with advanced certifications, specialized skills, and working in high-risk environments or remote locations.

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 assignments. However, such earnings are typically achieved through long-term projects, overtime, and working in challenging environments, and are not guaranteed for all divers.

What is the difference between Recovery Diver vs Commercial Diver?

AspectRecovery DiverCommercial Diver
CertificationsOpen water, advanced, rescue, specialty certificationsCommercial diving certifications, such as ADC or IMCA
Work EnvironmentUnderwater recovery, salvage, search operationsUnderwater construction, welding, inspection, and repair
Industry UsageSalvage, rescue, environmental cleanupOil & 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 training, and experience working in challenging environments. Specialized skills and certifications like commercial diving licenses significantly increase earning potential.

How much do recovery divers make?

Recovery divers typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of recovery projects. Certifications in diving and specialized equipment handling can influence earning potential, especially for commercial or salvage operations.
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:
Infographic showing various Recovery Diver job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,577 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Marine Structural Engineer/Diver, for COWI in North America

COWI

New York, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Marine Engineer Diver
New York
Regular, Full time
Hybrid
Do you want to join one of the leading consulting companies, creating value for customers, people, and societies worldwide? Can you add to our growth, while also developing your career and reputation? And can you contribute to the effective execution of marine infrastructure inspection, maintenance, and rehabilitation projects? Then, join us in designing the future.
Build a future where communities and individuals can thrive and prosper
We are seeking a highly motivated Marine Engineer Diver to join our team in New York. You will work closely with a team of experts working alongside our customers on some of North America's most significant projects. Join a team delivering some of the most impactful marine infrastructure work in New York City. COWI manages one of the region's most significant marine Inspection, Maintenance, and Repair contracts-worth several millions each year.
This long-standing partnership with a key client dates back to the early 2000s and has recently been renewed for another five years, extending through approximately 2030. This provides a reliable, stable pipeline of meaningful projects and long-term career growth opportunities.
Your key responsibilities will be to:
  • Work collaboratively with Project Director, Lead P.E. Diver, and members of the engineering dive group to perform sound engineering tasks and practice safe diving principles.
  • Plan, develop, and generate deliverables for above-water and underwater marine infrastructure inspections.
  • Operate and assist with maintaining commercial surface-supplied air diving equipment, including dive vessels and vehicles.
  • Perform face-to-face, written, and verbal communication with colleagues and clients.
  • Engineering candidates shall work collaboratively with other company disciplines (i.e., structural, geotech, coastal, CAD, etc.) to develop various deliverables including but not limited to inspection reports, structural and geotechnical analysis, coastal analysis, marine structure rehabilitation design, technical specifications, engineering cost estimates, etc.
  • Perform/oversee construction administration activities.

Your skills. Our team. Together we design the future.
The first step to success in this role is that you are eager to collaborate with the people around you, whether they are colleagues, partners or customers. Developing ties with others is something you do by acting respectfully and delivering on your promises. And you never get set in your ways but keep exploring new insights and ways to improve.
On top of that, you will have:
  • A bachelor's degree or higher in civil, structural, geotechnical, or ocean engineering from an accredited four-year university.
  • E.I.T. registration or ability to obtain within 6 months and intention of obtaining P.E. registration. Candidates already with a professional engineer's license are preferred.
  • An ADCI or equivalent Dive Certification and current First Aid/CPR/AED/O₂/BBP Certifications.
  • A valid US Driver's License.
  • Suitable physical condition to pass ADCI dive physical and lift/carry equipment associated with surface-supplied diving operations.
  • Preferably an OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification, ADCI Dive Supervisors Certification, and TWIC Card.
  • 3-6 years of relevant experience, including performing underwater inspections using surface-supplied air diving equipment, operating motor vessels (20-30 ft), trailering boats, and good planning and organizational skills along with willingness to travel domestically and internationally.

A place to work and so much more
At COWI, we work together with our customers to shape a sustainable and liveable world. We do it by applying our knowledge and curiosity - and sometimes even our courage - to create the solutions the world needs today to enable a better tomorrow. We support our customers' transition towards increased sustainability. We strive to lead by example by embedding environmental management, social responsibility, and good governance into our business practices and the options we provide to our customers.
We value differences and development and cultivate an environment of belonging and having fun. Because that is what brings out the best in you, at work and at home.
With offices primarily located in the Nordic region, the UK, North America and India, we are currently more than 7,500 people who bring their expertise in engineering, architecture, energy and environment into play.
What we also offer:
Being part of the COWI community offers more than just a competitive salary. We take care of our people both professionally and personally.
Some of our benefits include:
Flexible working arrangement | Top-up parental and childbirth recovery leave | Fantastic close-knit team with a wealth of knowledge to share | Full time hires get a minimum 3 weeks' vacation to start | Floating holiday to celebrate employee diversity | Paid sick leave | Annual fitness subsidy - yes, you can use this for a ski pass, yoga, or gym membership | 401K contribution matching with generous company match | Personal and professional development fund | Parking or public transit allowance | Medical, dental, and vision insurance 80% employer-paid premiums | Employee Assistance Program (EAP) | STD, LTD, AD&D, and Life Insurance | Referral incentive program| Frequent social events
Base compensation: $73,600 to $114,600 for New York location only. Actual compensation is subject to variations due to education, experience, skill set and/or location
Got more questions?
Get to know us even better at our website, www.cowi.com, where you can learn more about our projects, our strategy, what we want to achieve and what life is like at COWI.
Equal opportunity employer
COWI provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, COWI complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
#LI-HYBRID
#LI-MHJI