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Underwater Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Underwater Acoustics Engineer

Liverpool, NY · On-site

$85K - $150K/yr

They will apply underwater acoustic modeling techniques and algorithms including signal processing, statistical inference, propagation modeling. They will also participate in system integration and ...

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 ...

$81K - $110K/yr

HII Mission Technologies is seeking an Engineering Technician Maintenance III to support underwater vehicle operations at the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) in Kauai, Hawaii. This seniorlevel ...

This Opportunity WSP is seeking an Underwater Engineer (EI Diver) to join our growing dive team in Greenville, SC . This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a top-ranked international ...

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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
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What states have the most Underwater jobs? States with the most job openings for Underwater jobs include:
Underwater Inspection - Group Manager (48417)

Underwater Inspection - Group Manager (48417)

Collins Engineers, Inc

North Charleston, SC

$110K - $111K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

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

Collins is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Structural Engineer-Diver to play a key role as an Underwater Inspection Group Manager on our team in North Charleston, South Carolina. The ideal candidate will have experience in bridge, waterfront, and other transportation inspection and design projects. We are looking for a skilled professional who can bring creative design practice/problem solving skills balanced with a solid background in the field. This position requires the ability to manage projects, manage and coordinate dive teams, and liaise with clients and government agencies. This is a great opportunity for a highly motivated, driven professional who is looking for career growth and the opportunity to grow and manage a successful structural inspection and design group. There will be the opportunity to engage in business development activities and professional organizations. 

Typical Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Performs underwater and topside bridge inspections, and waterfront facility inspections.
  • Assists in the review of inspection and assessment reports.
  • Field work required, which could include nights and weekends.
  • Reviews and interprets plans and design drawings.
  • Documents findings and assists in the review of inspection and assessment reports.
  • Supports the development of recommendations for maintenance or repairs.
  • Collaborates with and directs junior 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 travel (25-50% of time).
  • Participates in training programs to enhance inspection skills.
  • Provides expertise in complex engineering computations involving conventional engineering practices.
  • Oversees the use of computer-assisted engineering and design software and equipment to prepare engineering and design documents.
  • Publishes engineering papers and/or articles.
  • Successfully develops and maintains meaningful relationships with clients.
  • Supervises select group of employees and support staff. Manages the staff and is responsible for technical training, career development, and performance of all assigned staff.
  • Responsible for identifying, recruiting, and retaining qualified technical personnel.
  • Ensures that staff needing specialized training in health and safety procedures and practices receives such training and that safety is discussed as an important aspect of their work.
  • Follows established communication processes and systems to ensure effective communication with staff, clients, and corporate office.
  • 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 university.
  • Minimum 7 years or more of underwater inspection and progressive engineering experience, including project management.
  • Maintains competency in and serves as major resource in the field of underwater inspection.
  • Experience with structural design preferred.
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) and/or Structural Engineer (S.E.) certification required.
  • ADCI diver certification required.
  • Open water experience required.
  • A 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.Â