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Underwater Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Commercial Diver

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$30 - $38/hr

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 ...

$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 position is also open to any WSP office location in Pennsylvania and Florida

This Opportunity WSP is seeking an Underwater Engineer (EI Diver) to join our growing dive team in Greenville, SC . This position is also open to any WSP office location in Pennsylvania and Florida

A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is a national scientific services firm supporting maritime activities requiring certification of compliance with environmental regulation ns as well as collecting data for use by ...

A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is a national scientific services firm supporting maritime activities requiring certification of compliance with environmental regulation ns as well as collecting data for use by ...

Showing results 21-40

Underwater information

See salary details

$8

$39

$90

How much do underwater jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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?

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:

Infographic showing various Underwater job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $81,874 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Commercial Diver

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Norfolk, VA โ€ข On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

ADCI Certified Commercial Diver
Position Summary
The ADCI 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.
  • Operate construction equipment such as forklifts, telehandlers, and bobcats as required.
  • 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
  • Experienced Commercial Diver: 1 year or more 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.
  • Proficiency 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 depth and under pressure, requiring the use of specialized equipment.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position is performed primarily in active marine and waterfront construction environments.
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.