Diving Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of adventure sports, the focus on diving instructors has never been greater.

As the interest in underwater exploration continues to grow, so does the demand for proficient guides who can train, guide, and ensure the safety of diving enthusiasts.

So, let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a diving instructor?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring instructor trying to understand the core of this role,
• A recruitment specialist searching for the ideal candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the world of diving instruction,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable diving instructor job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s plunge right into it.

Diving Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Diving Instructors are highly trained professionals who teach others to scuba dive safely and proficiently.

They also guide experienced divers on underwater expeditions and ensure the safety of all participants.

The duties and responsibilities of a Diving Instructor include:

• Teach students the basics of scuba diving, including the use of equipment, safety procedures and diving techniques
• Ensure all diving equipment is in good working condition and perform regular maintenance
• Conduct pre-dive safety checks on all equipment
• Assess the physical condition and mental preparedness of students before diving
• Guide students and divers on underwater tours and expeditions
• Maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all participants
• Provide first aid and emergency assistance when necessary
• Stay up-to-date with the latest diving techniques, safety procedures and equipment
• Record and report on student progress and certification
• Organize and lead diving trips and expeditions

 

Diving Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Diving Instructor to join our team.

The Diving Instructor will conduct diving courses and guide recreational diving excursions.

Responsibilities include ensuring the safety of the diving students, teaching proper diving techniques and marine conservation, and maintaining diving equipment.

Our ideal candidate is a certified dive instructor with excellent communication and leadership skills.

The role of the Diving Instructor is to provide a safe and enjoyable underwater experience for all our guests.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct diving courses and certify students
• Guide recreational diving excursions
• Ensure the safety of all diving students and guests
• Maintain and service diving equipment
• Teach proper diving techniques and marine conservation
• Provide emergency first aid if needed
• Coordinate with team for smooth operation of diving activities
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations

 

Qualifications

• Certified Dive Instructor from a recognized training agency
• Proven experience as a Diving Instructor
• Strong swimming skills and physical stamina
• Knowledge of diving equipment and maintenance
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Emergency First Response (EFR) Instructor certification is a plus
• Knowledge of marine life and conservation is preferred

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health insurance
• Travel opportunities
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and fun environment
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Diving Instructor
• Work Environment: This role involves working in and around water, often in outdoor and sometimes challenging weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Diving Center Manager or Resort Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Part-time, Contract, Seasonal
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Diving Instructor Do?

A Diving Instructor is a professional who is certified to teach diving techniques and safety procedures to students of various skill levels, from beginners to advanced divers.

They typically work for diving schools, resorts, or adventure travel companies and are responsible for planning and delivering diving lessons, both theoretical and practical.

Diving Instructors guide students through underwater exploration, explaining and demonstrating proper diving techniques, such as buoyancy control, navigation, and breathing techniques.

They are responsible for ensuring the safety of their students and may perform equipment checks, monitor weather conditions, and supervise dives to manage risks.

Diving Instructors also teach students about marine conservation, dive planning, and may even train them for specific certifications.

They often have to tailor their teaching methods to suit the needs and abilities of individual students.

Additionally, they may provide emergency first aid, CPR, and oxygen administration in case of any accidents or medical emergencies.

 

Diving Instructor Qualifications and Skills

Diving Instructors are expected to have a range of specific skills and qualifications to ensure the safety and education of their students, such as:

• Proficient swimming skills and physical fitness to manage underwater conditions and rescue scenarios
• Certification from a recognized diving organization such as PADI, NAUI, or SSI
• Knowledge of diving theory, equipment, safety protocols, and emergency procedures
• Ability to instruct students of varying skill levels, from beginners to more advanced divers
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to clearly and effectively impart diving techniques and safety procedures to students
• Patience and adaptability when dealing with students who may be nervous or experiencing difficulties
• First aid and CPR certification to respond to any emergencies during diving sessions
• Keen attention to detail to ensure safety standards are met at all times
• Passion for diving and the marine environment, with a desire to share that passion with others

 

Diving Instructor Experience Requirements

Diving Instructors generally have significant experience in diving as a hobby, often achieved through multiple guided dives and self-guided exploration.

Additionally, they typically complete a professional diving certification program, such as the PADI Divemaster or IDC (Instructor Development Course) programs.

Entry-level Diving Instructors may have 1 to 2 years of experience in diving, often gained through regularly participating in diving excursions and taking part in training sessions.

These professionals can also gain experience through roles such as Assistant Instructor, Dive Guide, or other positions related to underwater activities.

Candidates with more than 3 years of diving experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Diving Instructor roles.

They may also have experience in special areas of diving such as deep diving, cave diving, wreck diving, or technical diving.

Those with more than 5 years of experience typically have some leadership experience in their background, having led diving expeditions or taught in diving schools.

These individuals may be ready for a managerial position, such as Head Diving Instructor or Dive Center Manager.

They may also have experience in emergency first response and rescue diving, which are important skills for higher-level roles in the industry.

 

Diving Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Diving Instructor requires specific training and certification, typically through a recognized agency such as the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), Scuba Schools International (SSI), or National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI).

To begin this process, aspiring instructors first need to be certified as open water divers, which involves completing a course that covers basic scuba skills and safety procedures.

After gaining some experience, they can proceed to higher-level courses like advanced open water diver, rescue diver, and finally, divemaster.

It’s important to note that each level requires a specific number of logged dives and successful completion of written and practical exams.

Once they have reached the divemaster stage, individuals can then take the instructor development course (IDC) and the instructor examination (IE).

Apart from scuba diving skills, aspiring instructors also need to have first aid and CPR certification, with some diving agencies requiring the Emergency First Response (EFR) Instructor course.

Instructors also need to maintain their certification through continuing education and teaching a certain number of courses each year.

Lastly, it’s recommended that diving instructors have good physical fitness, and in many cases, a medical certificate stating fitness for diving is required.

Although not required, some diving instructors choose to specialize in certain areas, such as deep diving, wreck diving, or underwater photography, which can involve additional training and certification.

 

Diving Instructor Salary Expectations

A Diving Instructor can expect to earn an average salary of $36,775 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can vary based on factors such as years of experience, certifications held, location, and the type of diving instruction provided.

 

Diving Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a diving instructor need?

Diving instructors need to have strong swimming skills and excellent physical fitness.

They should also possess deep knowledge of scuba diving techniques, safety procedures and emergency protocols.

They need to have good interpersonal and communication skills to effectively teach and interact with students of all ages and backgrounds.

Additionally, they should have problem-solving skills to handle unexpected situations under water.

 

Do diving instructors need certification?

Yes, diving instructors must have a professional diving instructor certification from a recognized organization such as PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) or SSI (Scuba Schools International).

Some of these programs require a certain number of logged dives and successful completion of both a written and practical exam.

First aid and CPR certifications are also often required.

 

What should you look for in a diving instructor resume?

Apart from the essential diving instructor certification, you should look for experience in teaching diving courses and leading dives.

Also, knowledge of dive site ecology, marine life identification, and diving medicine can be advantageous.

Skills in equipment maintenance and repair, as well as additional certifications in specialized types of diving, can be additional assets.

 

What qualities make a good diving instructor?

A good diving instructor is patient, calm, and reassuring, as they often have to deal with students who may be nervous or scared.

They are passionate about diving and have a deep respect for marine life and the environment.

They should also have strong leadership skills to effectively manage a group underwater and ensure everyone’s safety.

 

Is it challenging to become a diving instructor?

Becoming a diving instructor can be challenging as it requires a high level of physical fitness, extensive training, and a thorough understanding of diving theory.

Instructors must also be able to manage potentially dangerous situations under water.

However, for those who are passionate about diving and teaching, it can be a rewarding career.

 

Conclusion

And there it is.

Today, we’ve plunged into the depths of what it really means to be a diving instructor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about swimming underwater.

It’s about guiding others into the marine world, one dive at a time.

With our tailored diving instructor job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your splash.

But why stop at the surface?

Submerge further with our job description generator. It’s your next stop for precision-crafted job listings or perfecting your resume to a tee.

Remember:

Every dive is a part of a bigger exploration.

Let’s explore the underwater world. Together.

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