1

Shark Dive Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Shark Dive information

See salary details

$24K

$87.2K

$109.5K

How much do shark dive jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for shark dive in the United States is $87,179.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Shark Dive Instructor, you need advanced scuba diving certification (such as PADI Divemaster or Instructor), in-depth knowledge of marine biology, and strong water safety skills. Familiarity with dive equipment, underwater communication devices, and emergency response protocols is essential. Exceptional communication, calmness under pressure, and leadership are vital for ensuring guest safety and providing a positive experience. These skills and qualities are important to minimize risks, educate divers, and create safe, memorable encounters with sharks.

What are shark dive professionals?

Shark dive professionals are individuals trained to guide, supervise, and educate people during diving experiences involving sharks. They ensure the safety of divers, promote responsible shark interactions, and help dispel myths about sharks by fostering awareness about their behavior and conservation. These professionals often work at dive resorts, aquariums, or on liveaboard boats, and are knowledgeable in marine biology, first aid, and diving safety protocols.

What are some typical safety protocols and teamwork practices followed during a shark dive operation?

During a shark dive operation, strict safety protocols are followed to ensure the well-being of both divers and marine life. Team members conduct thorough gear checks, participate in detailed dive briefings, and maintain constant underwater communication using hand signals. Collaboration is essential—divers work closely with surface support staff and fellow dive professionals to monitor shark behavior and respond quickly to any changes in conditions. Adhering to established procedures and fostering trust within the team are crucial for delivering a safe and memorable experience for all participants.

What is the difference between Shark Dive vs Shark Conservationist?

AspectShark DiveShark Conservationist
CredentialsOpen water certification, diving experienceBiology degree, conservation training
Work EnvironmentUnderwater, diving locationsResearch facilities, field sites
Industry UsageTourism, adventure divingEnvironmental protection, research

Shark Dives focus on providing immersive underwater experiences for tourists, requiring diving certifications and comfort in aquatic environments. Shark Conservationists work to protect shark species through research and advocacy, often requiring specialized education and fieldwork. While both roles involve sharks, Shark Dives are tourism-oriented, whereas Shark Conservationists are dedicated to species preservation and environmental efforts.

More about Shark Dive jobs
Infographic showing various Shark Dive job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,179 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
Dive Master Apprentice, Dive Immersion

Dive Master Apprentice, Dive Immersion

Georgia Aquarium

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago


Georgia Aquarium rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 36 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Position Title: Dive Master Apprentice
Department: 3380 - Dive Immersion
Classification: PTNOEX - Part-Time Non-Exempt
Employee Type: PTS - PT Team Spec
Direct Report: Assistant Manager, Dive Immersion
Position Summary:
This entry-level position is responsible for the delivery of the Dive Immersion Programs, which includes but are not limited to the SCUBA dive, Swim, and Shark Cage Dive experiences. The Dive Master Apprentice ensures the programs are run safely, efficiently, and provides exceptional guest experience. They will be asked to provide in-water or top-side support for the Dive Immersion Programs in accordance with Georgia Aquarium's Dive safety standards and protocols
Responsibilities:
  1. Conducts the daily delivery of Dive Immersion Programs and guest experiences.
  2. Maintains the highest level of safety and quality of the Dive Immersion Programs possible.
  3. Participates in training and developmental classes.
  4. Fulfill assignments of program roles on rotational basis; includes guest representative, ride operator, in-water guide/safety, and surface support.
  5. Set up and inspects open circuit dive equipment to ensure all are within proper operating parameters.
  6. Meets all applicable requirements as outlined in Georgia Aquarium's Diving Operations and Procedures Manual.
  7. Adheres to all dive safety policies and procedures as set by GAI and the Dive Control Board.
  8. Regularly performs guest experience dives in support of the program mission to include the SCUBA dive, Swim, & Shark Cage Dive programs.
  9. Regularly demonstrates a comprehensive and advanced knowledge of recreational diving methods and techniques.
  10. Regularly demonstrates a broad technical and recreational expertise in diving.
  11. Always maintains the highest standards of professionalism, proper appearance, and work area cleanliness.
  12. Regularly interacts on behalf of Dive Immersion with guests, media, and other departments within Georgia Aquarium.
  13. Performs other functions for Dive Operations such as filling cylinders, tending/diving presentations, data entry, buddy diving, other duties for Zoological Operations as needed.

Qualifications:
  1. High School Diploma required. Bachelor's Degree preferred.
  2. Present evidence of all dive training and diving history.
  3. Hold a current advanced open water certification or higher.
  4. Pass Georgia Aquarium's Dive Physical.
  5. Pass Georgia Aquarium's Swim and SCUBA Test.
  6. Pass an Open Water checkout dive with Diving Safety Officer or Designee.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Commitment:
I commit to Georgia Aquarium, Inc. to be a part of the following:
Mission: Georgia Aquarium is a nonprofit committed to inspiring awareness and preservation of our ocean and Aquatic animals worldwide.
Vision: To be the Premier Aquarium in the World for Science, Entertainment, Education and Conservation.
Values: Respect, Teamwork, Integrity, Innovation, Leadership, Excellence, Appreciation & Inclusion
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Georgia Aquarium employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom