Work below surface of water, using surface-supplied air or scuba equipment to inspect, repair, remove, or install equipment and structures. May use a variety of power and hand tools, such as drills, sledgehammers, torches, and welding equipment. May conduct tests or experiments, rig explosives, or photograph structures or marine life.
SOC: 49-9092.00
Common Job Titles
Commercial Diver
Diver
Diver Tender
Tender
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate underwater power tools including drills, grinders, welding equipment, and hydraulic torque wrenches in subsea environments using surface-supplied air or scuba equipment, following established safety protocols.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform inspection and repair procedures on underwater equipment and structures while handling and moving objects in physically demanding subsea conditions.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate structural integrity and compliance of underwater installations using ultrasonic thickness testers, magnetic particle inspectors, and visual inspection techniques.
Proficient
MindsetBalance operational efficiency with safety protocols and environmental constraints when organizing, planning, and prioritizing dive operations in dynamic underwater environments.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze underwater environmental hazards and equipment malfunctions under time pressure and limited visibility, applying knowledge of physics and mechanical systems.
Developing
MindsetEngage in real-time communication with surface teams and supervisors using wireless communication systems while coordinating complex underwater operations.
Developing
KnowledgeApply decompression tables and dive planning procedures when managing dive depth, duration, and gas mixtures to ensure diver safety.
Developing
Hands-onExecute underwater welding, cutting, and construction tasks using specialized torches, electrodes, and building techniques in aquatic environments.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret dive computer data, gauge readings, and sonar equipment outputs to monitor processes, materials, and surroundings during subsea operations.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate diving equipment including breathing apparatus, buoyancy control devices, and gas analyzers before and during operations to maintain operational safety standards.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in training and mentoring of less experienced divers by demonstrating proper techniques and safety procedures in controlled and field settings.
Developing
KnowledgeCompare observed underwater conditions against design specifications and regulatory requirements when documenting inspection findings and preparing technical reports.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Commercial Divers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
3,430
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $39,130. 25th percentile: U.S. $49,370. 50th percentile: U.S. $61,130. 75th percentile: U.S. $93,840. 90th percentile: U.S. $152,580. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$39,130
10% of workers earn the following or more
$152,580
Workers on average earn
$78,110
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Mechanical4.1/5
Building and Construction3.8/5
Physics3.5/5
Customer and Personal Service3.2/5
Mathematics3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
