ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Underwater Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

PCCI

Engineer II

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Basic knowledge and application of prescribed methods of hands on or practical engineering in the field including exposure to marine rigging, vessel operations, underwater ship repair operations and ...

PCCI

Engineer II

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Basic knowledge and application of prescribed methods of hands on or practical engineering in the field including exposure to marine rigging, vessel operations, underwater ship repair operations and ...

Naval Sea Systems Command

GENERAL ENGINEER

Mclean, VA · On-site

You will provide recommendations for underwater signature requirements, characterizations ... Successful completion of a professional engineering degree. To be acceptable, the program must: (1) ...

PCCI

Project Engineer II Naval Architect

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Support naval architecture and marine engineering analyses for vessels, floating structures, offshore systems, mooring systems, underwater equipment, salvage operations, and marine construction ...

PCCI

Project Engineer II Naval Architect

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Support naval architecture and marine engineering analyses for vessels, floating structures, offshore systems, mooring systems, underwater equipment, salvage operations, and marine construction ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUnderwater Engineer JobsUnderwater Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Underwater Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$19K

$92K

$179.4K

How much do underwater engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for underwater engineer in Virginia is $92,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,222.00 and $125,942.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underwater engineer?

An Underwater Engineer designs, builds, and maintains structures and systems in underwater environments. They work on projects such as offshore oil rigs, underwater pipelines, subsea telecommunications, and marine infrastructure. Their duties often involve diving to inspect equipment, using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and applying specialized engineering principles to ensure structures withstand underwater conditions. These engineers typically have a background in civil, mechanical, or marine engineering and may require diving certifications for hands-on tasks.

What are some typical work environments and team structures for underwater engineers?

Underwater Engineers commonly work in dynamic settings that include offshore platforms, underwater construction sites, and shipyards, often splitting time between fieldwork and office-based project planning. Teams are typically multidisciplinary, collaborating with marine biologists, construction specialists, safety officers, and vessel crews to ensure project goals are met safely and efficiently. Daily responsibilities may involve underwater inspections, equipment setup and maintenance, and real-time troubleshooting, both above and below the water. The collaborative and technical nature of the work fosters strong teamwork and clear communication, making adaptability and a proactive attitude valuable in this role.

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

To thrive as an Underwater Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering disciplines (such as civil, mechanical, or marine engineering), along with specialized knowledge in underwater construction and repair, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and commercial diver certification. Familiarity with tools like remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), underwater welding equipment, and sonar imaging systems is crucial for handling technical underwater tasks safely and efficiently. Excellent problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills, as projects often involve coordinating with multidisciplinary teams in challenging environments. These abilities ensure the safety, success, and reliability of complex underwater projects in areas such as offshore construction, inspection, and maintenance.

How much do underwater engineers make?

Underwater engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of projects. Senior roles or specialized skills in diving, robotics, or subsea systems can lead to higher salaries.

What are popular job titles related to Underwater Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Underwater Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Underwater Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Underwater Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

Underwater Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underwater Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,030 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Engineer - Diver (49119)

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Collins Engineers, Inc
Civil Engineering Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Collins Engineers, Incexternal

$40 - $50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Collins is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm. We have opportunities for you.

Collins Engineers, Inc. is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Engineer Diver to join our team in Fairfax, Virginia. This is a unique opportunity to combine engineering expertise with underwater exploration, contributing to projects that ensure the safety and longevity of critical infrastructure. The ideal candidate will play a key role in waterfront and underwater bridge inspections and related engineering tasks, gaining valuable hands-on experience while working in a collaborative, employee-focused environment.


Typical Duties and Responsibilities: 

  • Performs waterfront and underwater and topside bridge inspections.
  • Assists in the completion of inspection and assessment reports. 
  • Reviews and interprets plans and design drawings.
  • Documents findings and assists in the completion of inspection and assessment reports.
  • Supports the development of recommendations for maintenance or repairs. 
  • Collaborates with senior engineers/technicians on inspections.
  • Uses computer-assisted engineering and design software to prepare project deliverables.
  • Communicates effectively with engineering teams and project stakeholders.
  • Actively observes and acts in an appropriate manner related to safety.
  • Requires some travel (mostly regional). 
  • Participates in training programs to enhance inspection skills. 
  • Other duties may be assigned.

*Relocation is available

Click HERE to see the variety of benefits that Collins has to offer. 

Education and/or Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field from an accredited four-year university plus appropriate continuing education.
  • 0-5 years of experience. 
  • Engineer-In-Training (E.I.T.) or ability to obtain within one year. 
  • Open water diving experience required.
  • ADCI certification preferred.

Physical Demands:

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee frequently is required to talk or hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus

Apply