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Underwater Inspection Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

PCCI

Project Engineer II Naval Architect

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

... underwater systems, subsea installations, pipeline/outfall systems, buoy systems, hydrophone arrays, research platforms, and marine renewable energy projects. * Participate in field inspections ...

PCCI

Project Engineer II Naval Architect

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

... underwater systems, subsea installations, pipeline/outfall systems, buoy systems, hydrophone arrays, research platforms, and marine renewable energy projects. * Participate in field inspections ...

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All JobsUnderwater Inspection JobsUnderwater Inspection Jobs in Washington

Underwater Inspection information

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$12

$22

$35

How much do underwater inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for underwater inspection in Washington is $22.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $25.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underwater inspection?

Underwater inspection jobs involve evaluating and assessing the condition of structures, vessels, or equipment located below the surface of water. These professionals use specialized diving techniques and tools to inspect items such as bridges, dams, pipelines, ship hulls, and offshore platforms for damage, corrosion, or other issues. Inspections are critical for ensuring the safety, maintenance, and compliance of these submerged structures. Workers in this field may also document findings, perform minor repairs, and prepare detailed reports for engineers or regulatory authorities.

What are some common challenges faced during underwater inspections, and how are they typically addressed?

Underwater inspection professionals often encounter challenges such as limited visibility, strong currents, and variable water conditions, which can make thorough assessments difficult. To address these issues, inspectors use specialized equipment like remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), underwater cameras, and sonar technology to enhance visibility and precision. Additionally, strong teamwork and clear communication with surface support teams are crucial for ensuring safety and accurate data collection. Regular training and adherence to safety protocols help minimize risks and improve inspection outcomes.

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

To thrive as an Underwater Inspector, you need expertise in diving techniques, familiarity with inspection protocols, and relevant certifications such as commercial diving and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) qualifications. Proficiency in using underwater cameras, sonar equipment, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and digital reporting tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for conducting thorough inspections and reporting findings. These competencies ensure safe, accurate assessments of underwater structures and facilitate timely maintenance or repairs.

What is the difference between Underwater Inspection vs Underwater Welding?

AspectUnderwater InspectionUnderwater Welding
CertificationsCommercial Diver Certification, Inspection CertificationsCommercial Diver Certification, Welding Certifications (e.g., AWS)
Work EnvironmentInspecting structures, pipelines, and hulls underwaterWelding and repairing structures underwater
Industry UsageMarine, offshore, infrastructure inspectionShipbuilding, offshore oil & gas, repair projects

Underwater Inspection focuses on assessing the condition of underwater structures, while Underwater Welding involves repairing or joining metal components beneath the water. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but their primary tasks differ significantly. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path in the underwater industry.

How to become an underwater inspector?

To become an underwater inspector, you typically need a commercial diving certification from a recognized training program, along with experience in underwater inspection or related fields. Knowledge of inspection techniques, safety procedures, and tools such as underwater cameras and sonar is essential, and physical fitness is important due to the demanding environment.

What are popular job titles related to Underwater Inspection jobs in Washington?

For Underwater Inspection jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Underwater Inspection jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Underwater Inspection jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Underwater Inspection jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Underwater Inspection job openings:

Underwater Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underwater Inspection job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,709 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Team Leader - Structural Inspection (48415)

Columbia, MD • On-site

Collins Engineers Inc.
Civil Engineering Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Collins Engineers Inc.external

$100K - $150K/yr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Collins is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm. We have opportunities for you.
Collins Engineers has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Structural Inspection Team Leader in Baltimore, Maryland. The Team Leader will lead inspection teams and assist in the successful completion of a variety of inspection projects with the Department of Transportation. This is a great opportunity for a Team Leader wanting to advance their career into project management.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Manage above-water and underwater bridge and ancillary design, inspection, and evaluations.
  • Review, analyze, and provide recommendations on field and/or design issues or adaptations.
  • Assist in proposal preparation.
  • Prepare and monitors project budgets.
  • Responsible for project schedules and timely completion of projects.
  • Responsible for moderately engineering projects in field and office in accordance with plans and specifications.
  • Perform engineering computations and estimates on designing engineering projects.
  • Prepare complete engineering plans or reports.
  • Use computer-assisted engineering and design software and equipment such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and Civil3D to prepare engineering and design documents.
  • Field work required, which could include nights and weekends.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

*Relocation is available
Click HERE to see the variety of benefits Collins has to offer.
Education and/or Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree and/or master's degree in civil engineering from an accredited four-year university.
  • Minimum of 10 years of bridge or ancillary structure inspection experience.
  • Must have passed the NHI/FHWA Safety Inspection of in-service bridge course. number: FHWA-NHI-130055.
  • Successful completion of Fracture Critical and Ancillary Inspection Course preferred, but not required.
  • Professional engineer (P.E.) certification required.
  • Valid driver's license.

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; stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to walk, sit, climb, or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • While in the field, the employee may be required to walk in rugged conditions, work in adverse weather conditions, and stand up to eight hours or more at a time.

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