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Scuba Diving Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We offer programs that include fishing, sailing, scuba diving, coral restoration, snorkeling, kayaking, camping, and much more across six operating locations. Many job opportunities are available at ...

We offer programs that include fishing, sailing, scuba diving, coral restoration, snorkeling, kayaking, camping, and much more across six operating locations. Many job opportunities are available at ...

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Scuba Diving information

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$11K

$56.8K

$144K

How much do scuba diving jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for scuba diving in the United States is $56,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25,000.00 and $46,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Scuba Diving Jobs?

Scuba diving jobs include a variety of positions, including teachers and professional divers. In this field, you may help study marine life, research the effects of scuba gear on the human body, or dive into interesting parts of the ocean. Scuba diving jobs are available in a variety of fields, ranging from the entertainment industry to maritime search and rescue operations. Regardless of whether you're diving in a controlled environment or the open sea, professional scuba diving positions usually require certification and intimate familiarity with the health and safety aspects of diving. Some scuba diving positions require training with additional equipment, such as motorized transport vehicles or underwater cameras.

Can you scuba dive on pregabalin?

Scuba diving with pregabalin is generally not recommended because the medication can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired coordination, which increase the risk of accidents underwater. It is important for certified divers to consult a healthcare professional before diving while on any medication, including pregabalin. Safety precautions and medical advice should always be prioritized in diving activities.

What are some common challenges scuba diving professionals face while leading group dives?

Scuba diving professionals often encounter challenges such as managing divers with varying experience levels, ensuring everyone's safety, and adapting to changing underwater conditions. Communication can be difficult underwater, so dive leaders must be adept at using hand signals and monitoring group cohesion. Additionally, professionals must be prepared to handle unexpected situations, such as equipment malfunctions or changes in weather, while maintaining a calm and supportive environment for all participants.

Can I get a job as a scuba diver?

Yes, you can get a job as a scuba diver, often in roles such as commercial diver, underwater technician, or dive instructor. These jobs typically require certification from recognized agencies, physical fitness, and sometimes specialized training or experience in underwater tasks.

What is scuba diving?

Scuba diving is an underwater swimming activity where divers use a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (scuba) to breathe while exploring beneath the surface of the water. This allows divers to stay underwater for extended periods and observe marine life, shipwrecks, and underwater landscapes. It is both a recreational sport and a professional activity, requiring proper training and certification for safety. Scuba diving can be done in oceans, lakes, rivers, and even purpose-built pools. Safety protocols and equipment maintenance are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Scuba Diving Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scuba Diving Instructor, you need strong swimming ability, mastery of diving techniques, and certification from accredited organizations like PADI or NAUI. Familiarity with dive planning software, underwater navigation tools, and emergency equipment like dive computers is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and leadership skills help ensure student safety and create a positive learning environment. These competencies are essential for teaching effectively, managing risks, and fostering confidence in new divers.

What jobs can you get scuba diving?

Scuba diving offers various job opportunities such as commercial diver, underwater photographer, marine biologist, dive instructor, and underwater welder. These roles typically require certifications like PADI or NAUI, specialized training, and comfort working in aquatic environments.

What is the highest paying scuba diving job?

The highest paying scuba diving jobs are often commercial diving roles, such as underwater welders or inspection divers, which can earn six-figure salaries due to the specialized skills, certifications, and hazardous environment involved. These positions typically require advanced training, certifications, and physical fitness, and often involve working in challenging conditions for extended periods.

What is the difference between Scuba Diving vs Marine Biologist?

AspectScuba DivingMarine Biologist
Required CertificationsOpen Water Diver, Advanced Open Water DiverBachelor's or Master's in Marine Biology, research permits
Work EnvironmentUnderwater, recreational or commercial settingsResearch labs, fieldwork at sea, marine protected areas
Industry UsageRecreational, tourism, commercial divingScientific research, conservation, academia

While scuba diving involves underwater exploration primarily for recreation or commercial purposes, marine biologists study marine life and ecosystems, often using diving skills for field research. Both roles require diving certifications, but marine biologists typically have advanced degrees and focus on scientific research, whereas scuba divers may not need formal scientific credentials.

What cities are hiring for Scuba Diving jobs? Cities with the most Scuba Diving job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Scuba Diving jobs? The most popular types of Scuba Diving jobs are:
What states have the most Scuba Diving jobs? States with the most job openings for Scuba Diving jobs include:
Infographic showing various Scuba Diving job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,841 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

PADI Scuba Instructor (OWSI or Higher)

Dive Kauai Scuba Center Inc

Koloa, HI • On-site

$1.0K - $3.0K/mo

Full-time

Medical

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Dive Kauai Scuba Center | Koloa, Kauai

Do you love introducing people to the underwater world?

Dive Kauai Scuba Center has been creating unforgettable ocean adventures for more than 24 years. We're looking for enthusiastic, safety-minded PADI Instructors who are passionate about teaching, guiding, and delivering world-class guest experiences.

Whether you're teaching a guest to breathe underwater for the very first time, leading certified divers along Kauai's spectacular reefs, or inspiring someone to continue their diving education, you'll play an important role in creating memories that last a lifetime.

This is a hospitality position as much as it is a scuba position. Our instructors are educators, tour guides, sales professionals, safety leaders, and ambassadors for both Dive Kauai and the island of Kauai.

What You'll Do
  • Teach PADI scuba courses from Discover Scuba Diving through Divemaster.
  • Conduct pool demonstrations and Discover Scuba Diving experiences at our resort partners.
  • Guide certified shore and boat dives.
  • Lead specialty dives including night, DPV, deep, drift, and other specialty experiences.
  • Deliver exceptional customer service before, during, and after every dive.
  • Promote additional diving experiences, continuing education, and company activities.
  • Prepare equipment, vehicles, classrooms, and paperwork for daily operations.
  • Maintain rental equipment and assist with daily dive shop operations.
  • Work closely with fellow instructors, divemasters, captains, and office staff to create an exceptional guest experience.
  • Minimum Qualifications

    Applicants must:
  • Be a current PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) or higher.
  • Be in good standing with PADI and authorized to teach.
  • Be legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Hold current CPR and First Aid certifications.
  • Carry (or be able to obtain before your first day) DAN Professional Liability Insurance.
  • Own a complete set of professional scuba equipment.
  • Pass preemployment and random drug testing.
  • Hold a valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Be comfortable driving company vans and transporting dive equipment.
  • Lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Be available to work weekends, holidays, and peak tourism seasons.
  • Preferred Qualifications
  • PADI Specialty Instructor ratings.
  • Experience teaching highvolume resort diving programs.
  • Underwater photography experience.
  • Experience conducting Discover Scuba Diving programs.
  • Boat diving experience.
  • Customer service, hospitality, or tourism experience.
  • Knowledge of Kauai dive sites.
  • Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive pay
  • Generous gratuities.
  • Health insurance (eligible employees).
  • Employee activity benefits.
  • Professional, supportive team environment.
  • Yearround employment opportunities.
  • Consistent scheduling with opportunities for growth and advancement.
  • Availability Requirements

    We operate seven days a week, year-round.

    Applicants must be available to work:
  • Weekends and holidays
  • June through September
  • December 15 through January 15
  • These are our busiest seasons, and time-off requests during these blackout periods generally cannot be accommodated.

    We're looking for team members who are dependable, positive, professional, and excited to create unforgettable experiences for our guests. If you're ready to join one of Kauai's premier ocean adventure companies, we'd love to hear from you.