Marine Mammal Assistant 1
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Assistant 1
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Assistant 1
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Assistant 1
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Assistant 1
San Diego, CA · On-site
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Assistant 1
San Diego, CA · On-site
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Assistant 1
San Diego, CA · On-site
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Assistant 1
San Diego, CA · On-site
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Assistant 1
San Diego, CA · On-site
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Assistant 1
San Diego, CA · On-site
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Assistant 1
San Diego, CA · On-site
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Assistant 1
San Diego, CA · On-site
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are a plus. * Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus. * All new hires will have ...
Marine Mammal Operator 2
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are required. * Job will require working outdoors, on boats in adverse weather conditions. * All new hires will have to pass a swim & dive test. * Personnel must be able to work ...
Marine Mammal Operator 2
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are required. * Job will require working outdoors, on boats in adverse weather conditions. * All new hires will have to pass a swim & dive test. * Personnel must be able to work ...
Advanced scuba skills are required. * Job will require working outdoors, on boats in adverse weather conditions. * All new hires will have to pass a swim & dive test. * Personnel must be able to work ...
Advanced scuba skills are required. * Job will require working outdoors, on boats in adverse weather conditions. * All new hires will have to pass a swim & dive test. * Personnel must be able to work ...
Marine Mammal Operator 2
San Diego, CA · On-site
Advanced scuba skills are required. * Job will require working outdoors, on boats in adverse weather conditions. * All new hires will have to pass a swim & dive test. * Personnel must be able to work ...
Marine Mammal Operator 2
San Diego, CA · On-site
Advanced scuba skills are required. * Job will require working outdoors, on boats in adverse weather conditions. * All new hires will have to pass a swim & dive test. * Personnel must be able to work ...
Marine Mammal Operator 2
San Diego, CA · On-site
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are required. * Job will require working outdoors, on boats in adverse weather conditions. * All new hires will have to pass a swim & dive test. * Personnel must be able to work ...
Marine Mammal Operator 2
San Diego, CA · On-site
$40K - $80K/yr
Advanced scuba skills are required. * Job will require working outdoors, on boats in adverse weather conditions. * All new hires will have to pass a swim & dive test. * Personnel must be able to work ...
Waterfront Technician
San Diego, CA · On-site
$32.48 - $35.83/hr
Basic Scuba certification preferred but not required or must be able to acquire upon the first 45 days of employment as a condition to continue employment. Must be CFR/First Aid certified or able to ...
Waterfront Technician
San Diego, CA · On-site
$32.48 - $35.83/hr
Basic Scuba certification preferred but not required or must be able to acquire upon the first 45 days of employment as a condition to continue employment. Must be CFR/First Aid certified or able to ...
Waterfront Technician
San Diego, CA · On-site
$32.48 - $35.83/hr
Basic Scuba certification preferred but not required or must be able to acquire upon the first 45 days of employment as a condition to continue employment. Must be CFR/First Aid certified or able to ...
Waterfront Technician
San Diego, CA · On-site
$32.48 - $35.83/hr
Basic Scuba certification preferred but not required or must be able to acquire upon the first 45 days of employment as a condition to continue employment. Must be CFR/First Aid certified or able to ...
Waterfront Technician
$32.48 - $35.83/hr
Basic Scuba certification preferred but not required or must be able to acquire upon the first 45 days of employment as a condition to continue employment. Must be CFR/First Aid certified or able to ...
Waterfront Technician
$32.48 - $35.83/hr
Basic Scuba certification preferred but not required or must be able to acquire upon the first 45 days of employment as a condition to continue employment. Must be CFR/First Aid certified or able to ...
Waterfront Technician
San Diego, CA · On-site
$32.48 - $35.83/hr
Basic Scuba certification preferred but not required or must be able to acquire upon the first 45 days of employment as a condition to continue employment. Must be CFR/First Aid certified or able to ...
Waterfront Technician
San Diego, CA · On-site
$32.48 - $35.83/hr
Basic Scuba certification preferred but not required or must be able to acquire upon the first 45 days of employment as a condition to continue employment. Must be CFR/First Aid certified or able to ...
Perform documentation of SCUBA diving equipment maintenance and portable diving equipment for certification program. * Overhaul and setting proper limits for 200 breathing regulators. * Visually ...
Perform documentation of SCUBA diving equipment maintenance and portable diving equipment for certification program. * Overhaul and setting proper limits for 200 breathing regulators. * Visually ...
Perform documentation of SCUBA diving equipment maintenance and portable diving equipment for certification program. * Overhaul and setting proper limits for 200 breathing regulators. * Visually ...
Perform documentation of SCUBA diving equipment maintenance and portable diving equipment for certification program. * Overhaul and setting proper limits for 200 breathing regulators. * Visually ...
Easy access to Monterey Bay scuba diving * Local features include redwood forests, hiking, fishing, boating, beaches, golfing * Excellent Central Coast California weather
Easy access to Monterey Bay scuba diving * Local features include redwood forests, hiking, fishing, boating, beaches, golfing * Excellent Central Coast California weather
Easy access to Monterey Bay scuba diving * Local features include redwood forests, hiking, fishing, boating, beaches, golfing * Excellent Central Coast California weather
Easy access to Monterey Bay scuba diving * Local features include redwood forests, hiking, fishing, boating, beaches, golfing * Excellent Central Coast California weather
Scuba information
See California salary details
$8.94 - $10.83
4% of jobs
$10.83 - $12.71
13% of jobs
$13.65 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.71 - $14.59
17% of jobs
$14.59 - $16.48
13% of jobs
The median wage is $16.98 / hr.
$16.48 - $18.36
16% of jobs
$20.11 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.36 - $20.24
15% of jobs
$20.24 - $22.13
9% of jobs
$22.13 - $24.01
8% of jobs
$24.01 - $25.89
3% of jobs
$25.89 - $27.78
2% of jobs
$27.78 - $29.66
1% of jobs
$8
$18
$29
How much do scuba jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for scuba in California is $18.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.65 and $20.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Scuba vs Dive Instructor?
| Aspect | Scuba | Dive Instructor |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver | Open Water Diver, Dive Instructor Certification (e.g., PADI, NAUI) |
| Work Environment | Recreational diving, training, travel | Teaching, training, supervising students |
| Employer & Industry | Resorts, dive shops, cruise lines | Dive schools, training agencies, resorts |
While both roles involve scuba diving, a Scuba diver is primarily a recreational participant, whereas a Dive Instructor is a professional responsible for training and certifying other divers. Dive Instructors require additional certifications and have a more instructional role, often working in teaching environments. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths within the diving industry.
What are some common challenges faced by professional scuba instructors and how can they be managed?
Professional scuba instructors often encounter challenges such as ensuring student safety, adapting teaching methods to suit varying skill levels, and managing equipment maintenance. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong communication skills, attentiveness, and a proactive approach to risk management. Building rapport with students and maintaining up-to-date certifications also help instructors create a positive learning environment and handle unexpected situations effectively.
What is a scuba diver?
Scuba divers are individuals trained to swim underwater using a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA). This equipment allows divers to breathe underwater for extended periods, enabling them to explore, study, or work beneath the water’s surface. Scuba divers can be recreational enthusiasts, scientific researchers, underwater photographers, or professionals involved in tasks such as marine construction or rescue operations. Proper training and certification are essential for safe scuba diving.
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 expert knowledge of diving techniques, safety protocols, and first aid, typically supported by certifications from agencies like PADI or NAUI. Familiarity with dive computers, underwater navigation tools, and emergency oxygen equipment is essential. Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving skills help instructors teach effectively and manage diverse student needs. These competencies ensure safe, enjoyable learning experiences and uphold safety standards in potentially hazardous underwater environments.
What jobs can I do with scuba diving?
Scuba diving offers job opportunities such as commercial diver, underwater photographer, marine biologist, dive instructor, and underwater welder. These roles often require certifications like PADI or NAUI and involve working in environments such as oceans, lakes, or aquariums. Skills in safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and environmental awareness are essential for these positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Scuba jobs in California? The most popular types of Scuba jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Scuba jobs in California? For Scuba jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scuba jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Scuba jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Scuba jobs? Cities in California with the most Scuba job openings:
SAIC rating
7.9
Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
78th of 223 rated it services
Job description
Job ID: 2613854
Location: San Diego, CA, US
Date Posted: 2026-06-18
Category: Wage Determination (SCA)
Subcategory: Service Contract Act
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: Yes - 10% of the time
Minimum Clearance Required: None
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Secret
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE
Description
SAIC is looking for a Marine Mammal Assistant for our San Diego, CA location. In this role, the successful candidate will be required to perform preparation of rations, cleaning of food preparation areas, animal enclosures and commons areas, as well as maintaining and cleaning specialized equipment. A successful candidate will be physically fit, excel at working outdoors, and on a boat in moderate to rough sea states.
JOB DUTIES:
- Personnel are also responsible for the operation and maintenance of small watercraft.
- Personnel perform feeding and administration of food supplements, perform observation of marine mammals, and assist with basic husbandry.
- The personnel in this position may be trained to become a designated secondary handler for specific animals. Sealion or dog handing experience is a plus.
- As part of an integrated military function the MMA-1 performs tasks related to the care and training of marine mammals for specific marine mammal projects.
- This position will require scuba diving. Advanced scuba skills are a plus.
- Job will require working outdoors on boats in adverse weather conditions. Experience working at sea and on live-aboard boats is a plus.
- All new hires will have to pass a swim & dive test in addition to possessing at minimum, a basic scuba certification.
- Personnel must be able to work flexible work hours including weekends and holidays.
- Deter the presence of nuisance animals following established NIWC processes and procedures.
- A requirement for this position includes the ability to travel frequently with animals anywhere in the world, to include potentially harsh environmental and high-risk locations, within 72 hours' notice.
Qualifications
Required Education, Experience and Clearance to obtain:
- High school diploma (or equivalent).
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be able to obtain Secret security clearance after start.
- Must be physically fit and able to repetitively lift 50 or more lbs. on a regular basis.
- The ability to successfully pass a Maritime Vessel Operation Color Blind Test as directed by the contract.
- Basic SCUBA, and ONE of the following:
- One (1) year animal training experience, OR
- Operational and navigation experience on small boats (30' or under), OR
- USCG license (operator of un-inspected passenger vessels/6pac - 46 CFR 10.467) or higher/U.S. Navy Coxswain's certification, and Operational experience using maritime navigational devices, OR
- Advanced scuba diving certifications (i.e. dive master, instructor, commercial diver certification, 1st or 2nd class Navy Diver classification), and current First Aid and CPR certification, OR
- Two (2) years of college and 3 months experience as a marine mammal custodian.
Target salary range: $40,001 - $80,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
About Science Applications International
Sourced by ZipRecruiter