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Scientific Diving Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Coach, Diving Department Org: Swimming-Women - 105270 Employee Classification: U1 ... Pre-employment health screening requirements for the University of Toledo Health Science Campus ...

Assistant Coach, Diving Department Org: Swimming-Women - 105270 Employee Classification: U1 ... Pre-employment health screening requirements for the University of Toledo Health Science Campus ...

Marine Scientist/Biologist

Topsham, ME · On-site

$51K - $74K/yr

SCUBA certification and scientific diving experience * HAZWOPER 40-hour certification * Working understanding of policies and procedures for HSSE, including client-specific training (as required)

Marine Scientist/Biologist

Topsham, ME · On-site

$56K - $82K/yr

SCUBA certification and scientific diving experience * HAZWOPER 40-hour certification * Working understanding of policies and procedures for HSSE, including client-specific training (as required)

Scientific diving certification or willingness to obtain * Boating safety certifications or significant small-vessel experience Physical Requirements * Must be able to lift and carry equipment ...

Scientific diving certification or willingness to obtain * Boating safety certifications or significant small-vessel experience Physical Requirements * Must be able to lift and carry equipment ...

This position offers unique access to a wide range of ocean exploration technologies and platforms, including crewed submersibles, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), CTDs, and scientific diving ...

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Scientific Diving information

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How much do scientific diving jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific diving in the United States is $31.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $40.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Scientific Diving vs Commercial Diving?

AspectScientific DivingCommercial Diving
CertificationsOpen Water, Advanced, Rescue, Scientific Diving CertificationCommercial Diving Certification, IMCA or ADCI certification
Work EnvironmentResearch sites, underwater laboratories, environmental monitoringUnderwater construction, inspection, welding, salvage
Industry UsageResearch institutions, environmental agenciesConstruction, oil & gas, shipping, underwater repair

Scientific Diving and Commercial Diving both require specialized certifications and involve underwater work, but Scientific Diving focuses on research and environmental monitoring, while Commercial Diving is centered on industrial and construction tasks. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path based on their skills and interests.

What Are Scientific Diving Jobs?

Scientific diving jobs are any positions that have duties and responsibilities related to the process of diving for science. The most common role is that of a scientific diver. These divers often double as a scientist or engineer and are the ones taking pictures, collecting a sample, and recording observations. Field divers may stick to a specific area or gather information from multiple dive sites. There are specific positions within the dive team, including the dive leader or director. There are also job opportunities as the boat driver, a diver technician, and those who support the divers on land by preparing equipment.

What is scientific diving?

Scientific diving is a specialized form of underwater diving conducted by scientists and researchers to collect data, samples, and observations in aquatic environments. Unlike recreational or commercial diving, scientific diving focuses on supporting research in fields such as marine biology, archaeology, geology, and environmental science. Scientific divers follow strict safety protocols and often use specialized equipment to carry out tasks like underwater surveys, sample collection, and ecological monitoring. Proper training and certification are required to ensure both diver safety and the integrity of scientific data collected underwater.

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 working in high-paying industries such as oil and gas. However, such earnings are typically achieved through long-term experience, hazardous environments, and often involve offshore or remote work schedules.

How much do scientific scuba divers make?

Scientific scuba divers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and funding sources. Salaries can vary based on the employer, project scope, and whether the diver is employed full-time or part-time, often requiring specialized certifications and skills in underwater research and data collection.

What are some common challenges faced by scientific divers during underwater research projects?

Scientific divers often encounter challenges such as limited underwater visibility, fluctuating water temperatures, and navigating strong currents, all of which can impact data collection and safety. Additionally, managing specialized research equipment while adhering to strict dive protocols requires strong multitasking skills. Effective communication and coordination with team members, both underwater and topside, are essential to ensure research objectives are met and safety standards are maintained.

How much do research divers make?

Research divers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and employer, but they typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually. Certified divers with specialized skills and advanced certifications tend to earn higher wages, especially when working on long-term projects or in remote environments.

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

To thrive as a Scientific Diver, you need advanced scuba certification, experience in scientific research methodologies, and a solid understanding of marine biology or related fields. Proficiency in using underwater data collection tools, GPS systems, and diving safety equipment is typically required, along with certifications such as AAUS Scientific Diver. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively under challenging conditions are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure the collection of accurate scientific data, maintain safety, and support effective research outcomes in underwater environments.

How do you become a scientific diver?

To become a scientific diver, individuals typically need to complete a scientific diving certification course approved by a recognized organization, which includes training in underwater research techniques, safety procedures, and the use of specialized equipment. Candidates must usually have a valid diver certification, good physical health, and often a background in science or related fields; some programs require prior diving experience and medical clearance.
What cities are hiring for Scientific Diving jobs? Cities with the most Scientific Diving job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific Diving jobs? The most popular types of Scientific Diving jobs are:
What states have the most Scientific Diving jobs? States with the most job openings for Scientific Diving jobs include:
Infographic showing various Scientific Diving job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,473 per year, or $31.5 per hour.
Assistant Coach, Diving

Assistant Coach, Diving

The University of Toledo

Toledo, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


University Of Toledo rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

455th of 541 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Assistant Coach, Diving
Job no: 499836
Work type: Staff - Full-Time
Location: Main Campus - Administration Toledo, OH
Categories: Athletics
Title: Assistant Coach, Diving
Department Org: Swimming-Women - 105270
Employee Classification: U1 - Unclassified PSA FT
Bargaining Unit: Professional Staff Association
Primary Location: MC AD
Shift: 1
Start Time: End Time:
Posted Salary:
Float: {bOther1}
Rotate: {bOther2}
On Call: {bOther3}
Travel: {bOther4}
Weekend/Holiday: {bOther5}
Job Description:
Assist the Head Coach with all assigned duties associated with the Women's Swimming and Diving program. This position will also have the responsibility to assist and evaluate diving skills and techniques. This position is also responsible for assisting in the recruitment of student athletes.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Demonstrated successful swimming & dive coaching experience at the collegiate level or equivalent.
• Bachelor's degree required.
• Collegiate level diving experience preferred.
• Commitment to the academic success of student athletes.
• Candidates must have sound written and verbal communication skills, a commitment to athletic and academic success, knowledge of NCAA regulations.
• NCAA recruiting test proficiency or passing within two weeks of hire.
• Possess a current CPR certification or the ability to obtain upon hire.
Preferred Qualifications:
Conditions of Employment:
To promote the highest levels of health and well-being, the University of Toledo campuses are tobacco-free. Pre-employment health screening requirements for the University of Toledo Health Science Campus Medical Center will include drug and other required health screenings for the position.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
The University of Toledo is an equal opportunity employer. The University of Toledo does not discriminate in employment, educational programs, or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military or veteran status, disability, familial status, or political affiliation.
The University is dedicated to attracting and retaining the best and brightest talent and fostering a culture of respect.
The University of Toledo provides reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodation to complete this application, or for testing or interviewing, please contact HR Compliance at hrcompliance@utoledo.edu or 419-530-4747 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. or apply online for an accommodation request.
Computer access is available at most public libraries and at the Office of Human Resources located in the Center for Administrative Support on the UToledo Main Campus.
Advertised: 08 Sep 2025 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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