Marine Salvage Diver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of marine operations, the focus on marine salvage divers has never been stronger.

As industries advance, so does the need for skilled professionals who can navigate, recover, and secure our underwater resources and treasures.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a marine salvage diver?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of marine salvage diving,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable marine salvage diver job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Marine Salvage Diver Duties and Responsibilities

Marine Salvage Divers are professionals who perform underwater salvage operations.

They use specialized diving equipment and techniques to recover lost items or repair structures from water bodies.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting pre-dive surveys to assess the condition of the salvage site
• Planning and coordinating salvage operations
• Using specialized diving equipment and tools to perform underwater tasks
• Recovering lost items, debris, or other materials from the ocean floor
• Inspecting and repairing underwater structures such as ships, oil platforms, and pipelines
• Maintaining and repairing diving equipment and machinery
• Documenting dive operations and findings in detail
• Ensuring compliance with safety regulations and procedures
• Cooperating with other team members to ensure successful salvage operations
• Providing emergency first aid or rescue services if needed during dive operations

 

Marine Salvage Diver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a capable Marine Salvage Diver to join our team.

The Marine Salvage Diver will be responsible for performing various underwater tasks related to the recovery and restoration of sunken ships, structures, equipment, and other valuable materials from water bodies.

The ideal candidate should be physically fit, with excellent swimming skills, and possess a good understanding of diving equipment maintenance.

The ability to work under challenging conditions and a commitment to safety protocols are vital for this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform underwater salvage operations, including rigging, cutting, welding, and recovery.
• Inspect and maintain diving equipment such as masks, fins, regulators, and diving suits.
• Execute underwater search and recovery missions.
• Use a variety of tools and equipment to conduct salvage operations.
• Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols to prevent accidents.
• Write reports detailing salvage operations.
• Work closely with the team to plan and execute salvage missions.
• Stay updated on weather conditions and water currents to ensure safety.
• Communicate effectively with team members both underwater and on the surface.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a commercial diver, ideally in the marine salvage industry.
• Relevant diving certifications (e.g. ADCI, IMCA).
• Strong swimming and diving skills.
• Ability to operate underwater tools and equipment.
• Knowledge of underwater welding and cutting.
• Ability to handle high-stress situations.
• Good physical condition and stamina.
• Willingness to travel and work in challenging conditions.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Marine Salvage Diver
• Work Environment: Varies depending on the site of the salvage operation. This can include freshwater bodies, oceans, and seas. This job often requires travel and extended periods away from home.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Diving Supervisor or Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• 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 Marine Salvage Diver Do?

Marine Salvage Divers are highly trained professionals who work both underwater and on the surface to recover, salvage, and preserve objects or structures from bodies of water.

They are often employed by commercial diving companies, government agencies, and maritime organizations.

Their primary task involves diving to the depths of seas, rivers, or lakes to recover sunken vessels, cargo, or other objects.

This is a complex task that often requires the use of specialized equipment and knowledge of rigging and lifting techniques.

Marine Salvage Divers also play a critical role in environmental protection.

They may be called upon to salvage vessels or materials that pose a threat to the environment, such as oil tankers or hazardous materials.

In addition to their underwater tasks, Marine Salvage Divers also perform duties on the surface.

This could involve planning and coordinating salvage operations, maintaining and inspecting diving equipment, and liaising with other professionals involved in the salvage operation.

Marine Salvage Divers are also responsible for the safety of the operation.

They must observe strict safety protocols and guidelines, and may also be responsible for carrying out risk assessments and emergency procedures.

The role of a Marine Salvage Diver is highly specialized, physically demanding, and often involves working in challenging and unpredictable conditions.

However, it can also be incredibly rewarding, offering the opportunity to explore the underwater world, contribute to environmental protection efforts, and participate in exciting and complex operations.

 

Marine Salvage Diver Qualifications and Skills

A Marine Salvage Diver should possess a unique combination of technical knowledge, physical abilities, and soft skills, such as:

• Adequate training and certification in diving, including advanced scuba diving and surface supplied diving.
• Knowledge of marine salvage operations and underwater recovery procedures, including rigging, lifting, and towing.
• Ability to use underwater tools and equipment efficiently, and to manage and maintain them properly.
• Understanding of marine environment, oceanography, and navigation, as well as a familiarity with different types of marine vessels and structures.
• Excellent physical fitness and stamina to withstand harsh underwater conditions and rigorous physical activities for extended periods.
• Strong problem-solving skills and quick decision-making ability to address unexpected challenges or hazards during salvage operations.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills for coordinating with the salvage team and other stakeholders.
• Ability to work under pressure and in stressful conditions, maintaining composure and focus.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and emergency response protocols, as well as first aid and CPR certification.

 

Marine Salvage Diver Experience Requirements

The journey to become a Marine Salvage Diver often begins with a certification in open water diving, followed by advanced scuba training and a series of specialty dive courses.

Many candidates gain initial experience through a military diving role or a commercial diving school where they learn the basics of underwater construction, inspection, and maintenance.

Entry-level Marine Salvage Divers usually have at least 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through roles such as Dive Assistant or Dive Tender.

These positions expose them to the basics of salvage operations and underwater welding techniques while performing under direct supervision.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are expected to be proficient in various underwater tasks, such as rigging, cutting, welding, and the use of hydraulic power tools.

They also should have substantial knowledge of decompression procedures, emergency protocols, and salvage equipment operation.

For those with more than 5 years of experience, they may have handled complex salvage operations and possibly held a leadership role on a dive team.

They are expected to be experts in underwater construction techniques, have superior problem-solving skills, and be adept at planning and conducting salvage missions.

A Master Diver certification or its equivalent might also be expected at this level of experience.

 

Marine Salvage Diver Education and Training Requirements

Marine Salvage Divers need to have at least a high school diploma or GED, though some positions may prefer candidates with further education in marine biology, oceanography or a related field.

Prior to employment, all marine salvage divers must undergo rigorous physical and mental training through a certified diver training program.

This training encompasses commercial diving techniques, underwater repair, salvage operations, and the use of various tools and equipment.

They also need to acquire a professional diving certification from an organization such as the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) or the Association of Commercial Diving Educators (ACDE).

Often, marine salvage divers are also required to have first aid and CPR certification, due to the nature of their work.

Some positions may prefer or require candidates with a certain amount of experience, or those who have obtained more advanced certifications, such as the Diver Medical Technician (DMT) or the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) certifications.

Continuing education and regular refresher courses in safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and new diving techniques are also important for maintaining and advancing in this profession.

 

Marine Salvage Diver Salary Expectations

A Marine Salvage Diver earns an average salary of $50,000 (USD) per year.

This figure can vary significantly based on factors such as the level of experience, specific skills, the risk associated with the salvage job, and the location of the operation.

 

Marine Salvage Diver Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Marine Salvage Diver need?

Marine Salvage Divers need to have excellent physical fitness, good hand-eye coordination, and a high level of dexterity to handle equipment underwater.

They should have great problem-solving skills to quickly assess and respond to diverse situations under the sea.

Familiarity with diving equipment and the ability to operate heavy machinery underwater is also required.

Additionally, they should have strong communication skills to effectively communicate with the dive team above water.

 

Do Marine Salvage Divers need a degree?

While a degree is not typically required, many Marine Salvage Divers complete a professional diving course accredited by a recognized body such as the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI).

There is also a preference for divers with background knowledge in marine biology, engineering, or related fields.

Some divers may also undergo additional specialized training in salvage operations.

 

What should you look for in a Marine Salvage Diver’s resume?

Important elements to look for in a Marine Salvage Diver’s resume include a certification from a recognized diving school, experience in salvage operations, and a demonstrated ability to operate underwater equipment.

Additionally, experience in welding and cutting underwater can be extremely valuable.

A good Marine Salvage Diver should also have a solid understanding of dive safety procedures and first aid.

 

What qualities make a good Marine Salvage Diver?

A good Marine Salvage Diver should have a high level of physical fitness and be comfortable working in stressful, often hazardous conditions.

They should be calm, composed, and able to make quick decisions under pressure.

They should have a keen eye for detail to identify salvageable items or potential hazards.

Good teamworking abilities are also essential as divers often work in teams for safety reasons.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Marine Salvage Diver?

Hiring a Marine Salvage Diver can be challenging due to the niche nature of the job and the specific qualifications required.

The pool of qualified candidates is relatively small, and the job often requires long hours and a willingness to work in potentially dangerous conditions.

However, offering competitive pay and benefits can help attract skilled divers.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the depths of what it truly entails to be a marine salvage diver.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about diving and retrieving.

It’s about navigating the unseen underwater world, one dive at a time.

With our handy marine salvage diver job description template and real-life examples, you’re all geared up to make a splash.

But why limit your exploration?

Plunge further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precision job listings or honing your resume to a fine edge.

Remember:

Every dive is a part of the bigger underwater exploration.

Let’s explore that underwater world. Together.

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