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Underwater Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WSP

Underwater Inspector/Diver

Greenville, SC

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for an Underwater Inspector/Diver for a new office location in Greenville, SC opening in 2025. Be part of a growing dive team at a top-ranked ...

WSP

Underwater Inspector/Diver

Greenville, SC · On-site

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for an Underwater Inspector/Diver for a new office location in Greenville, SC opening in 2025. Be part of a growing dive team at a top-ranked ...

Peraton

Underwater Acoustics Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking an Underwater Acoustics Engineer to work directly with our Navy customers on developing and maintaining R&D and in-service electro-mechanical systems for naval ...

Ross Marine

Be Seen First

Marine Painter Underwater Coatings Division

Johns Island, SC · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Marine Painter - Underwater Coatings Division Ross Marine | Charleston, SC Ross Marine is seeking an experienced and skilled Painter to Join our Marine Underwater Coatings Division . This is an ...

Peraton

Underwater Acoustics Engineer

West Bethesda, MD

$104K - $166K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking an Underwater Acoustics Engineer to work directly with our Navy customers on developing and maintaining R&D and in-service electro-mechanical systems for naval ...

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Underwater information

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$8

$39

$90

How much do underwater jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for underwater in the United States is $39.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $65.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Underwater vs Diver?

AspectUnderwaterDiver
CertificationsOpen Water, Advanced Open Water, Specialty certificationsOpen Water Diver, Rescue Diver, Specialty certifications
Work EnvironmentUnderwater environments, often for research, filming, or inspectionUnderwater or surface environments, for recreation, inspection, or commercial work
Industry UsageUsed in research, filmmaking, underwater constructionUsed in recreational diving, commercial diving, underwater inspection

While both Underwater and Diver roles involve working beneath the water, Underwater typically refers to specialized professionals engaged in research, filming, or inspection activities, often requiring advanced certifications. Divers encompass a broader range of recreational and commercial activities, including recreational diving and underwater construction. The key difference lies in the scope of work and certifications required, with Underwater roles often being more specialized and technical.

Can saturation divers earn over $300000 with years of experience?

Saturation divers can potentially earn over $300,000 annually with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-paying industries such as oil and gas. However, such earnings are typically achieved through long-term experience, certifications, and working in remote or hazardous environments that offer higher compensation. Most saturation divers' salaries vary based on location, employer, and project complexity.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs related to underwater work, such as offshore drilling engineers, underwater welders, and subsea project managers, can reach or exceed $500,000 annually with experience and specialized skills. These roles often require advanced certifications, extensive training, and work in challenging environments like deep-sea or offshore platforms.

What underwater job pays the most?

Commercial diving is among the highest-paying underwater jobs, with experienced divers earning over $100,000 annually. Specialized roles such as underwater welding, salvage, and deep-sea construction tend to offer the highest salaries due to the technical skills, certifications, and hazardous environment involved.

What are underwater jobs?

Underwater jobs refer to a wide variety of careers that involve working beneath the surface of water. These can include roles such as commercial divers, underwater welders, marine biologists, and underwater photographers. People in these jobs might work on construction projects, scientific research, exploration, equipment maintenance, or capturing images and videos underwater. Specialized training and certifications in diving and safety are typically required. The work environment can be challenging but offers unique experiences and opportunities.

Can thyroid patients do scuba diving?

Thyroid patients can generally participate in scuba diving if their condition is well-managed and they have received medical clearance. It is important to consult a healthcare professional to assess any potential risks related to symptoms or medication side effects before diving. Proper training and adherence to safety guidelines are essential for all divers, including those with thyroid conditions.

What safety protocols are typically in place for professionals working in underwater roles?

Professionals working in underwater roles, such as commercial divers or underwater welders, follow strict safety protocols to minimize risk. These include comprehensive pre-dive briefings, regular equipment inspections, adherence to depth and time limits, and the presence of surface support teams. Emergency procedures, such as rapid ascent plans and access to decompression chambers, are also standard. Regular safety drills and ongoing training help ensure that all team members are prepared to handle potential challenges in the underwater environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Underwater Welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underwater Welder, you need expertise in welding techniques, commercial diving, and knowledge of safety protocols, typically supported by certifications such as commercial diving and AWS welding credentials. Proficiency with underwater welding equipment, cutting tools, and diving systems is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safety and precision while completing demanding underwater projects in challenging environments.
More about Underwater jobs
What cities are hiring for Underwater jobs? Cities with the most Underwater job openings:
What states have the most Underwater jobs? States with the most job openings for Underwater jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Underwater jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Underwater jobs are:
Underwater jobs near you
Underwater Robotic Technician

Underwater Robotic Technician

Rutgers University

New Brunswick, NJ • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Rutgers University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

224th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Underwater Robotic Technician
Posting Number
26TM0281
Department
Marine & Coastal Sciences
Overview
The School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, located on the George H. Cook Campus, is one of the largest schools of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. We pursue excellence in research, teaching, and outreach in areas of study that address the biological spectrum from molecules to ecosystems. Our emphasis is on both the fundamental sciences and the social and human dimensions. We offer 21 undergraduate majors, including plant and animal sciences, microbiology, biotechnology, agriculture and food systems, landscape architecture, food and nutritional sciences, ecology and evolution, marine science and oceanography, environmental sciences and meteorology, human ecology, entomology, and environmental economics.
In addition to instruction in the classroom, field, and laboratory, our students have opportunities for experiential learning on and off campus, including a growing emphasis on international experiences through short- and long-term study abroad. Students also have access to a robust program of applied research and outreach hosted by the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station laboratories, farms, business incubators, and marine stations throughout the state.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Underwater Robotic Technician for the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences. The Department of Marine & Coastal Sciences is seeking a part time/entry-level Underwater Robotic Technician to assist the Rutgers Center for Ocean Observation Leadership team (RUCOOL) in the field with operations for underwater autonomous robots.
Among the key duties of the position are the following:
  • Works on research vessels (R'Vs') and possibly in laboratories with underwater glider deployments and recoveries. Lead a deployment or recovery team for Slocum gliders.
  • Obtains water samples, deploys/recovers underwater autonomous robots, drives a vehicle, and coordinates with shore team.

FLSA
Nonexempt
Salary Details
$19 - $22 per hour
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
  • Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
  • Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
  • Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
  • Life insurance coverage
  • Employee discount programs

Position Status
Part Time
Working Hours
8 hours per week
Daily Work Shift
Day
Work Arrangement
This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.
Payroll Designation
PeopleSoft
Terms of Appointment
Temporary Staff Appointment - Hourly
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • High school/vocational school education or equivalent experience.

Certifications/Licenses
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of underwater and Slocum gliders.
  • Knowledge on how to maneuver, handle, deploy, and recover, and potentially communicate with them.
  • Ability to communicate effectively via email, cell, and satellite phone.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior training on underwater gliders and operating on a vessel at sea (i.e. attended a Glider Technician Camp over the summer).
  • Experience taking water samples.
  • Using a sampling rosette and performing sampling net tows.

Equipment Utilized
  • PC computers.
  • Seabird sampling software.
  • Teledyne Slocum glider.
  • Water sampling rosette.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
  • Ability to operate comfortably on vessels.
  • Potentially expected to work longer days at sea, 4 - 8 hours.
  • Ability to travel 2 - 4 hours a day via vehicle.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. with assistance.
  • Ability to be flexible and available to work during good weather opportunities.

Special Conditions
Posting Details
Posting Open Date
06/25/2026
Posting Close Date
07/03/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Home Location Campus
Cook (RU-New Brunswick)
City
New Brunswick
State
NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement

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