1

Underwater Construction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $30 - $38/hour ADCI Certified Commercial Diver Position Summary The ADCI Certified Commercial Diver is responsible for performing underwater construction, inspections, repairs, and ...

Commercial Diver

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$30 - $38/hr

ADCI Certified Commercial Diver Position Summary The ADCI Certified Commercial Diver is responsible for performing underwater construction, inspections, repairs, and maintenance in accordance with ...

ADCI Certified Commercial Diver Position Summary The ADCI Certified Commercial Diver is responsible for performing underwater construction, inspections, repairs, and maintenance in accordance with ...

Commercial Diver

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$30 - $38/hr

ADCI Certified Commercial Diver Position Summary The ADCI Certified Commercial Diver is responsible for performing underwater construction, inspections, repairs, and maintenance in accordance with ...

Diver (12D)

Allentown, PA ยท On-site

$23K - $97K/yr

You'll also assist with underwater construction and specialize in either scuba diving or deep-sea diving. You'll support special warfare and explosive ordnance disposal troops while using diving gear.

Diver

Georgetown, ME ยท On-site

$30 - $35/hr

About Coastal Engineering Coastal Engineering is a specialized marine construction firm delivering complex, high-quality waterfront and underwater infrastructure projects along the East Coast. Our ...

Entry-Level Diver

Georgetown, ME ยท On-site

$26/hr

About Coastal Engineering Coastal Engineering is a specialized marine construction firm delivering complex, high-quality waterfront and underwater infrastructure projects along the East Coast. Our ...

Diver

West Milford, NJ ยท On-site

About Coastal Engineering Coastal Engineering is a specialized marine construction firm delivering complex, high-quality waterfront and underwater infrastructure projects along the East Coast. Our ...

Diver

Jacksonville, FL ยท On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Description About Coastal Engineering Coastal Engineering is a specialized marine construction firm delivering complex, high-quality waterfront and underwater infrastructure projects along the East ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Underwater Construction information

See salary details

$11

$27

$62

How much do underwater construction jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for underwater construction in the United States is $27.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underwater construction job?

An underwater construction job involves building, repairing, and maintaining structures beneath the water's surface, such as bridges, pipelines, dams, and offshore platforms. Professionals in this field, often commercial divers, use specialized equipment like diving suits, welding tools, and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to complete tasks in challenging underwater environments. The job requires expertise in diving safety, construction techniques, and sometimes engineering principles. It offers opportunities in industries like marine infrastructure, oil and gas, and environmental restoration.

What skills and qualifications are needed for underwater construction?

To excel in Underwater Construction, you need proficiency in diving techniques, underwater welding, heavy equipment operation, and a solid understanding of construction principles, often backed by certifications like commercial diver qualification and welding certifications. Specialized tools such as underwater cutting torches, hydraulic tools, and scuba or surface-supplied diving systems are routinely used, and adherence to safety protocols like those set by OSHA and ADCI is essential. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability, and clear communication skills help professionals manage complex underwater projects efficiently. These competencies ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, and to required quality standards, despite challenging and unpredictable underwater environments.

What are common challenges faced in underwater construction work?

Working in underwater construction often presents unique challenges such as limited visibility, strong currents, varying water temperatures, and the need for strict safety compliance. Team members must coordinate closely to manage hazards and communicate effectively, often using specialized hand signals or communication devices. Physical demands can be significant, and the job may require travel to various sites, working irregular hours or extended shifts. Despite these challenges, the work is highly rewarding for those who enjoy hands-on problem solving and operating in dynamic environments, with strong opportunities for skill development and career advancement.

More about Underwater Construction jobs
What cities are hiring for Underwater Construction jobs? Cities with the most Underwater Construction job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Underwater Construction jobs? The most popular types of Underwater Construction jobs are:
What states have the most Underwater Construction jobs? States with the most job openings for Underwater Construction jobs include:
Infographic showing various Underwater Construction job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,707 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Entry Level Commercial Diver

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Jacksonville, FL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Salary: $25 - $28

Entry Level ADCI Certified Commercial Diver

Position Summary

The ADCI Entry Level Certified Commercial Diver is responsible for performing underwater construction, inspections, repairs, and maintenance in accordance with industry standards, client requirements, and regulatory guidelines. This is a safety-sensitive position requiring strict adherence to operational protocols and company policies.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Perform commercial dives in compliance with ADCI guidelines and UMX safety protocols.
  • Conduct underwater inspections, cutting, welding, fitting steel, concrete work, and installation tasks.
  • Set up, test, maintain, and operate diving equipment, tools, and support systems.
  • Conduct routine and preventive maintenance of all dive gear and associated machinery.
  • Follow dive plans and verbal/written instructions from supervisors.
  • Document work progress and report hazards, delays, or safety issues to project leadership.
  • Comply with all client, local, state, and federal safety regulations and site-specific policies.
  • Travel to various job sites.
  • Work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as necessary to meet project timelines.


Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
  • Diploma from an accredited commercial diving school.
  • Entry Level Commercial Diver: Less that 1 year of commercial diving experience
  • Current ADCI certification
  • Current Dive Log Book
  • Valid ADCI Dive Physical (or ability to obtain prior to employment)
  • First Aid / CPR / O2 Provider Current Certification
  • Valid state-issued driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Passport Preferred
  • Ability to pass a federal background check and drug screening.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required federal installation access credentials.
  • Willingness to travel and work in remote, marine, and field environments.


Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of underwater construction practices and commercial diving safety protocols.
  • Experience with underwater tools and equipment.
  • Ability to read and follow technical instructions.
  • Physical ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs. repetitively.
  • Excellent situational awareness and risk assessment capability.


Working Conditions

Outdoor and underwater work in variable environmental conditions, including confined spaces and low visibility. Exposure to loud noises, heavy machinery, and hazardous materials. Physically demanding tasks involving lifting, climbing, and extended time underwater. Work may be performed at depths and under pressure, requiring the use of specialized equipment.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position is performed primarily in active marine and waterfront construction environments. The Field Superintendent must be capable of working outdoors in all weather conditions, boarding vessels and barges, traversing uneven terrain, and wearing required PPE. The ability to lift up to 50 lbs. is required.


What We Offer:

  • 9 paid holidays
  • Vacation, Sick and Bereavement pay
  • PPE as required: Work Boots, Safety Vest, Hard Hat, Safety Glasses, PFD, etc.
  • Employer pays 75% of premium payments, Available after 60 days of employment.
    • Medical
    • Dental
    • Vision
  • 401k + match up to 3%
  • $25,000 Life Insurance
  • Short Term/Long Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Career Development Opportunities




Equal Employment Opportunity

Underwater Mechanix Services (UMX) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, business needs, and applicable laws. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, military status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Reasonable Accommodations

UMX is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities and to sincerely held religious beliefs and practices, unless doing so would create an undue hardship. Applicants who require an accommodation during the hiring process should contact Human Resources.

Employment Requirements

Offers of employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation, drug screening, verification of employment eligibility, reference verification, and any position-specific licensing, certification, or security requirements permitted by law. UMX participates in E-Verify and maintains a Drug-Free Workplace.

Compensation Transparency

Where required by applicable law, UMX provides a good-faith salary or hourly wage range in its job postings. Compensation is determined based on qualifications, experience, education, skills, certifications, geographic location, and business needs.