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Scuba Instructor Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Swim Teacher

Lexington, KY · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

About UsDiventures has been serving scuba divers in Lexington for many years and has launched a ... Part Instructor, Part Cheerleader, All Hero As a Swim Teacher, your mission is to create a positive ...

Swim Teacher

Lexington, KY · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

About Us Diventures has been serving scuba divers in Lexington for many years and has launched a ... Part Instructor, Part Cheerleader, All Hero As a Swim Teacher , your mission is to create a ...

Scuba Instructor information

See Kentucky salary details

$11

$20

$38

How much do scuba instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for scuba instructor in Kentucky is $20.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a scuba instructor?

Scuba Instructors are professionally trained and certified individuals who teach people how to safely scuba dive. They provide classroom instruction, practical training in pools or confined water, and lead open water dives to help students develop their scuba skills. Scuba Instructors ensure divers understand safety procedures, equipment use, and emergency protocols. They are typically certified by recognized agencies like PADI, NAUI, or SSI and must maintain a high standard of safety and professionalism.

How does a scuba instructor typically collaborate with dive shop staff and other instructors during a busy season?

During peak diving seasons, Scuba Instructors often work closely with dive shop staff and fellow instructors to ensure smooth class scheduling, equipment management, and safety protocols. Collaboration is essential for efficiently organizing group dives, sharing responsibilities for student assessments, and covering each other's classes when needed. Effective communication with shop staff also helps maintain equipment readiness and coordinate boat or site logistics. This team-oriented environment not only supports a positive experience for students but also helps instructors manage their workload and professional development.

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

To thrive as a Scuba Instructor, you need advanced diving proficiency, in-depth knowledge of dive theory and safety, and instructor-level certification from organizations like PADI or NAUI. Familiarity with dive computers, underwater communication devices, and first aid/CPR certification are commonly required. Excellent communication, patience, and leadership skills help instructors teach diverse students and manage group safety. These competencies ensure effective instruction, student safety, and enjoyable underwater experiences.

What is the difference between Scuba Instructor vs Dive Master?

AspectScuba InstructorDive Master
Certifications RequiredOpen Water Diver, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, Divemaster, Instructor CertificationOpen Water Diver, Divemaster Certification
Work EnvironmentTeaching in pools, open water, classrooms, resortsAssisting instructors, leading dives, guiding certified divers
Industry UsageCertified to teach and certify new diversSupport role, leading dives, assisting instructors

While both roles operate within the diving industry and require similar certifications, a Scuba Instructor is qualified to teach and certify new divers, whereas a Dive Master primarily supports instructors and leads certified divers during dives. The instructor role involves more teaching responsibilities and certification authority, making it suitable for those interested in training new divers.

How much do scuba instructors make?

Scuba instructors typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Many instructors supplement income through tips, certifications, and working at multiple dive sites or resorts.

Is it worth becoming a scuba instructor?

Becoming a scuba instructor allows individuals to teach diving skills, earn income through certifications, and work in aquatic environments. It requires certification from recognized agencies, good communication skills, and physical fitness. The job can be rewarding for those passionate about diving and outdoor adventure, but income and job stability vary based on location and experience.

What are popular job titles related to Scuba Instructor jobs in Kentucky?

For Scuba Instructor jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Scuba Instructor jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Scuba Instructor jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Scuba Instructor jobs in KY?

For Scuba Instructor jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Scuba Instructor job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,684 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Scuba Instructor Dive Professional

Lexington, KY • On-site


Diventures

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 223 rated education and training

People enjoy working here


Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Dive ProfessionalAt Diventures, safety is our number one priority, and fun is our number one goal. We are in the relationship business, helping people build confidence, explore the underwater world, and create lifelong memories through scuba.We are looking for a Dive Professional who is passionate about teaching safe scuba, creating exceptional customer experiences, and helping students become confident, comfortable, and excited divers.As a Dive Professional, you will lead students through scuba education, build meaningful relationships, and represent the Diventures experience. You will use your knowledge, energy, and passion for diving to help customers grow through the four pillars of the SSI Diver Diamond: Knowledge, Skills, Equipment, and Experience.What You'll DoTeach safe scuba while following all SSI, industry, and Diventures standards. Create a positive, engaging, and comfortable learning environment for students. Build strong relationships with customers by showing genuine curiosity about their diving goals. Help students understand the value of continuing education, dive experiences, travel, and owning their own total dive system. Use the Diventures sales floor as a teaching tool to connect education, equipment, and experience. Make product recommendations that support safe, comfortable, and confident diving. Promote local, national, and international dive opportunities. Ensure all required paperwork and forms are completed accurately before class. Arrive early and be prepared for classes, with classrooms and equipment ready for students. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe pool, classroom, rental, and training environment. Partner with teammates across scuba, retail, swim, service, and travel to create a seamless customer experience. Stay current with certifications, dues, industry standards, training methods, and Diventures offerings. What We're Looking ForThe ideal candidate is:An effective and engaging teacher. Safety-focused and detail-oriented. Friendly, patient, reliable, and professional. Passionate about scuba and helping others grow as divers. Comfortable making education, equipment, and experience recommendations. A strong communicator who enjoys working with students and teammates. Collaborative, self-motivated, and willing to support the broader store team. Committed to representing Diventures positively in appearance, attitude, and professionalism. Required CompetenciesDive Professional certification. Ability to remain current with all certifications and dues required to instruct courses. Why This Role MattersDive Professionals are at the heart of the Diventures scuba experience. You help students move from curious beginners to confident divers by creating a safe, fun, and memorable learning experience.This role is more than teaching scuba. It is about building relationships, growing the dive community, and helping customers discover the knowledge, skills, equipment, and experiences that make diving a lifelong adventure.If you love scuba, enjoy teaching, and want to help others explore the underwater world safely and confidently, we would love to meet you.


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