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How much do scuba diving instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for scuba diving instructor in the United States is $22.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can thyroid patients do scuba diving?

Scuba diving instructors with thyroid conditions can generally dive if their condition is well-managed and they have medical clearance. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before diving, as thyroid issues can affect energy levels and overall health, which are critical for safe diving. Proper certification and health assessments are essential for ensuring safety in the diving environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Scuba Diving Instructors during training sessions?

Scuba Diving Instructors often encounter challenges such as working with students who have varying levels of comfort and ability in the water, adapting lesson plans for different group sizes, and responding quickly to changing underwater conditions. Ensuring safety for all participants is a primary responsibility, which requires constant vigilance and adaptability. Instructors may also need to manage equipment logistics and provide additional support for nervous or inexperienced divers. Balancing these tasks while maintaining a supportive, encouraging learning environment is key to both student success and job satisfaction.

What is the 120 rule in diving?

The 120 rule in diving, relevant for scuba diving instructors and divers, states that a diver should not exceed 120 minutes of total bottom time at depths shallower than 60 feet (18 meters) without a mandatory safety stop or decompression procedures. It helps ensure safe dive planning and adherence to no-decompression limits, which are critical for preventing decompression sickness. Proper training and use of dive computers or tables are essential for monitoring these limits during dives.

What is a Scuba Diving Instructor job?

A Scuba Diving Instructor teaches others how to safely scuba dive, covering skills, equipment use, and emergency procedures. They conduct training sessions, guide dives, and ensure students understand safety regulations. Instructors work at dive shops, resorts, or on liveaboard boats, often in tropical destinations. Certification from organizations like PADI or SSI is required.

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

To thrive as a Scuba Diving Instructor, you need strong aquatic skills, in-depth knowledge of diving theory, and completion of instructor-level scuba certifications such as those from PADI or NAUI. Familiarity with dive computers, compressed air equipment, and underwater communication devices is essential. Outstanding interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to clearly explain complex information help instructors excel, especially with diverse learners. These abilities ensure safety, effective instruction, and a positive experience for both beginners and experienced divers alike.

What qualifications do you need to be a dive instructor?

To become a scuba diving instructor, you need to hold a recognized open water diver certification, complete a professional-level certification such as the Divemaster or Assistant Instructor course, and obtain an instructor certification from a reputable agency like PADI, SSI, or NAUI. Additionally, candidates must meet minimum age requirements, have relevant medical clearance, and demonstrate teaching and rescue skills.

How much money do scuba instructors make?

Scuba diving instructors typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Many instructors supplement their income through tips, certifications, and working at popular dive destinations or resorts.
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Scuba Diving Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scuba Diving Instructor 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 $46,973 per year, or $22.6 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.

Apply