Offshore Oilfield Diver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the high-stakes world of offshore oilfield diving, the demand for professionals with unique skills, experience and courage has never been greater.

As the energy industry evolves, every move forward amplifies the need for divers who can explore, maintain, and safeguard our offshore oilfield infrastructure.

But what exactly is expected of an offshore oilfield diver?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the fascinating world of offshore oilfield diving,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we’re introducing a customizable offshore oilfield diver job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Offshore Oilfield Diver Duties and Responsibilities

Offshore Oilfield Divers are involved in a wide range of underwater activities related to the oil and gas industry.

They are responsible for carrying out inspections, repairs, installations and other operations on offshore drilling platforms, pipelines, and other infrastructure.

Offshore Oilfield Divers have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct routine maintenance and inspections of oil and gas infrastructure including underwater structures, pipelines, and drilling rigs
• Use a variety of underwater tools and equipment, such as welding gear and hydraulic saws
• Carry out underwater construction and installation tasks, including fitting and sealing pipelines
• Perform salvage operations for sunken equipment or structures
• Report on the results of inspections, including any damage or irregularities
• Adhere strictly to safety regulations and protocols, including maintaining constant communication with surface support staff
• Assist in the positioning and installation of equipment, such as anchors and cables
• Use underwater cameras and sonar equipment to monitor and inspect underwater structures and operations

 

Offshore Oilfield Diver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a certified Offshore Oilfield Diver to join our team.

As an Offshore Oilfield Diver, you will be responsible for underwater inspections, repairs, and installations of oilfield infrastructures.

Your role will involve working in challenging conditions, including deep-sea environments, and ensuring the safety and functionality of our offshore operations.

Candidates must have a strong understanding of diving procedures, safety protocols and should ideally have experience in an offshore oilfield environment.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform underwater inspections, repairs, and installations of oilfield infrastructures.
• Operate diving equipment and tools necessary for underwater tasks.
• Ensure safety protocols and procedures are adhered to at all times.
• Report findings and task completion to supervisors and other team members.
• Assist in emergency response and rescue operations.
• Participate in pre and post-dive briefings and inspections.
• Maintain and test diving equipment and gear.
• Ensure all operations comply with environmental regulations.

 

Qualifications

• Commercial Diving Certification required.
• Proven work experience as an Offshore Oilfield Diver or similar role.
• Strong knowledge of diving procedures and safety protocols.
• Ability to operate underwater machinery and tools.
• Physical fitness and the ability to handle strenuous and stressful situations.
• Sound knowledge of emergency response procedures.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Offshore allowance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Offshore Oilfield Diver
• Work Environment: Offshore environment with a rotational work schedule. Extended periods away from home may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Diving Supervisor or Offshore Installation Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if rotation)
• 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 an Offshore Oilfield Diver Do?

Offshore Oilfield Divers, also known as Commercial Divers, predominantly work in the oil and gas industry, conducting exploration, construction, repair, and maintenance tasks underwater in offshore oilfields.

Their primary responsibilities include diving and moving around underwater, often with the assistance of scuba gear or a remotely operated vehicle (ROV).

They are involved in drilling for oil or gas from below the seabed, which often involves working at significant depths for prolonged periods.

Offshore Oilfield Divers play a vital role in constructing and maintaining offshore oil rigs, pipelines, and other underwater structures.

They may be required to use welding equipment underwater or operate various types of heavy machinery.

In addition to physical tasks, these divers often use cameras and sonar equipment to inspect the integrity of underwater structures, identify issues, and assist in planning repair work.

They may also collect samples for environmental monitoring and scientific analysis.

They work closely with engineers and other professionals on the surface, communicating effectively through various methods to ensure safety and the successful completion of tasks.

The job often demands a high level of physical fitness, endurance, and the ability to work in challenging and sometimes dangerous conditions.

It requires extensive training and qualifications, including commercial diving certification and often a high level of technical skills.

 

Offshore Oilfield Diver Qualifications and Skills

An offshore oilfield diver should have a variety of technical skills, industry-specific certifications, and physical abilities, including:

• Commercial diving skills and experience in the oil industry, as well as an in-depth understanding of underwater structures and systems.
• Physical fitness and stamina to cope with the demanding nature of underwater work, which includes dealing with cold temperatures, strong currents and long periods of time underwater.
• High degree of mechanical aptitude to handle specialized diving and safety equipment, as well as to carry out repair and maintenance tasks underwater.
• Strong problem-solving skills to quickly react to unexpected situations or complications during dives, such as equipment failure or adverse environmental conditions.
• Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively with other divers and surface support staff using underwater communication equipment.
• Certification from a recognized commercial diving school and additional qualifications such as diving medical technician certification, underwater welding or non-destructive testing certification.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and emergency procedures to mitigate risks and handle situations of diver distress or equipment malfunction.

 

Offshore Oilfield Diver Experience Requirements

Entry-level offshore oilfield divers often have at least 2 to 3 years of commercial diving experience, typically gained through training programs accredited by the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI).

This experience is crucial to understand the fundamentals of diving operations, safety protocols, and equipment maintenance.

Additionally, they may have experience gained through internships or part-time roles in the offshore oil and gas industry, or in related industries such as construction or ship repairs that involve underwater operations.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience often have gained specialized skills such as underwater welding, non-destructive testing, or remotely operated vehicle (ROV) operations.

They may also have experience in deep water diving, saturation diving, or salvage diving, which are relevant to offshore oilfield operations.

Those with more than 7 years of experience in the field likely possess significant experience in handling complex underwater tasks and emergencies.

They may have leadership experience, having led diving teams in offshore operations, and could be ready for a supervisory or managerial role, overseeing diving operations and safety compliance.

Certifications such as the ADCI Diver Certification, First Aid and CPR, and Diving Medical Technician (DMT) are often required and enhance a diver’s experience and job prospects.

 

Offshore Oilfield Diver Education and Training Requirements

Becoming an Offshore Oilfield Diver typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent.

A strong background in swimming and comfort with deep-water activities is also essential.

The majority of Offshore Oilfield Divers gain their skills through a professional diver training program, which leads to a certification recognized by the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) or the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI).

These programs include extensive training in diving fundamentals, underwater construction techniques, equipment handling, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.

They also cover theoretical subjects such as marine biology, physics, and diving medicine.

On top of this, all divers are required to undertake a commercial diving physical examination and hold a valid offshore survival and fire-fighting certificate.

Some divers may also choose to specialize in a specific area such as welding or non-destructive testing.

These specializations will require additional training and certification.

Due to the hazardous nature of this role, continuous training in new safety standards, equipment, and diving techniques is essential.

Practical experience through internships or entry-level roles is also highly valued in this industry.

Divers are typically required to renew their certifications periodically, depending on the guidelines set by their certifying body.

 

Offshore Oilfield Diver Salary Expectations

An Offshore Oilfield Diver can expect to earn an average salary of $75,000 (USD) per year.

However, the pay can significantly vary based on the diver’s experience, the complexity of the task, location of the oilfield, and the hiring company’s policies.

 

Offshore Oilfield Diver Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Offshore Oilfield Diver need?

Offshore Oilfield Divers need excellent swimming and diving skills, as well as knowledge of diving safety protocols.

They should have a good understanding of underwater drilling operations and equipment.

Strength and physical fitness are also important, as the job is physically demanding.

Other skills include problem-solving, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure.

 

What kind of training does an Offshore Oilfield Diver need?

Offshore Oilfield Divers typically need to complete a commercial diving training program accredited by the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI).

They also need to pass a physical fitness test and obtain certification in diving medical technician (DMT) and offshore survival and firefighting.

Additionally, they may need specific training on underwater welding and cutting, non-destructive testing, and underwater inspection techniques.

 

What should you look for in an Offshore Oilfield Diver resume?

An Offshore Oilfield Diver’s resume should show evidence of formal dive training and certification, as well as experience in offshore oilfield operations.

It should also include a valid dive medical certificate and other relevant certifications such as DMT or underwater welding.

Look for any evidence of skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and working under pressure.

 

What qualities make a good Offshore Oilfield Diver?

A good Offshore Oilfield Diver is physically fit and mentally resilient, as the work can be physically demanding and performed under high-pressure conditions.

They are excellent team players who can communicate effectively with their colleagues.

They also need to be decisive and have problem-solving skills, as they often need to make quick decisions when underwater.

Additionally, a high level of discipline and respect for safety protocols is essential in this role.

 

Is it difficult to hire Offshore Oilfield Divers?

Hiring Offshore Oilfield Divers can be challenging due to the high-risk nature of the job and the specific skill set and qualifications required.

Additionally, the pool of qualified and experienced candidates is relatively small.

Therefore, employers need to offer competitive salaries and benefits, as well as ensure a strong safety culture to attract potential candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve dived deep to reveal the true essence of being an offshore oilfield diver.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about working underwater.

It’s about braving the depths and shaping the energy future, one dive at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive offshore oilfield diver job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-prepared to take the plunge.

But don’t just stop there.

Submerge yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your crucial tool for creating meticulously detailed listings or refining your resume to faultlessness.

Remember:

Every dive is a step towards the larger goal.

Let’s navigate the depths. Together.

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