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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 ...

Peraton

Underwater Acoustics Engineer

West 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 ...

Ultra

Underwater Acoustic Engineer

Columbia City, IN · On-site

As the maritime and underwater battlespace evolves, we continue to push boundaries-driven by innovation, accountability, and a shared commitment to excellence. Join us as we shape the future of naval ...

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All JobsUnderwater Jobs

Underwater information

See salary details

$8

$39

$90

How much do underwater jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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.

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.

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
Infographic showing various Underwater job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,874 per year, or $39.4 per hour.
Underwater Sonar Specialist

Underwater Sonar Specialist

Prudent Engineering

Syracuse, NY • On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

About the Firm:
Our mission: Transforming Infrastructure with Passion and Kindness.
We provide quality, cost-effective engineering services to state and local governments and private-sector clients across New York State and Pennsylvania. Our project portfolio features experience in bridge, highway, and structural design. Condition and safety inspection. Civil and site engineering support. Construction inspection and administration. Survey and mapping and hydrographic services.
Prudent Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
What you'll be able to do:
Prudent seeks a skilled Underwater Sonar Specialist to join our team. The Underwater Sonar Specialist is responsible for acquiring hydrographic data, including 3D bathymetry and underwater imagery, troubleshooting and installing sonar and sensor systems, and assisting with data processing and deliverable preparation. This role requires working collaboratively in a team environment while ensuring the safe and compliant use of equipment to deliver accurate, high-quality survey results.
Key responsibilities
  • Acquire hydrographic data that will include 3D bathymetry and 2D underwater imagery, and may include vessel mounted LiDAR data, sub-bottom profiling data, magnetometer data, and current profiling data
  • Install, troubleshoot and operate sensor systems
  • Work closely in a team environment to acquire data
  • Ensure safe and secure use of company owned and rental equipment while complying with industry standards and company policies
  • Complete field notes and documentation
  • Assist with processing data and deliverable preparation

The requirements we seek:
  • Demonstrate ability in remote sensing techniques
  • Understanding of geodesy, underwater acoustic principles and survey concepts
  • Effective technical writing and communication
  • Capable of independent decision making and problem-solving
  • Able to safely operate survey vehicles, survey vessels, ROVs, and USVs
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced team environment

Minimum Qualifications
  • A valid driver's license
  • Legal to work in the Unites States
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds
  • Field experience
  • Experience with GNSS survey practices and instrumentation
  • Experience with hydrographic survey acquisition and processing software
  • Ability to relocate to the Syracuse, NY area

Preferred Qualifications
  • 4-year degree in hydrography, geophysics, geodetics, electronics engineering, marine geospatial, survey, or related field
  • 3+ years of experience in hydrography and/or ROV inspection operations
  • Certified hydrographer
  • Hypack/Hysweep, SonarWiz, Soundtiles, and Photoshop software experience
  • CADD experience

What we offer:
  • Annual salary between $50,000 to $75,000/yr + based on experience
  • Medical, dental, vision.
  • 401K with company match.
  • PTO plus paid holidays.
  • Unlimited opportunities to advance your career.

*Actual compensation may vary based on work experience, location, market conditions, education/training, certifications, and other credentials, as well as applicable knowledge and skills.

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