Public Safety Diver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of emergency response, the role of public safety divers has never been more critical.

As threats and emergencies evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, respond, and ensure our public safety in aquatic environments grows exponentially.

But let’s take a deeper dive: What’s truly expected from a public safety diver?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the challenging world of public safety diving,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable public safety diver job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Public Safety Diver Duties and Responsibilities

Public Safety Divers undertake a wide range of duties, not only limited to diving but also encompassing various emergency response tasks.

They are specialized professionals trained to respond to emergencies, perform search and rescue missions, and recover evidence or bodies from underwater locations.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Conduct underwater searches and recoveries for evidence, bodies, and property
• Perform rescue operations in various water bodies
• Inspect and assess the structural integrity of bridges, dams, and other underwater structures
• Maintain diving equipment and ensure it is in proper working order
• Document findings, observations, and actions taken during dive operations
• Follow safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe diving environment
• Collaborate with law enforcement agencies and provide necessary support in investigations
• Participate in training exercises and workshops to enhance diving skills and knowledge
• Handle emergency situations, provide first aid, and perform CPR if necessary
• Communicate effectively with the dive team and other emergency responders

 

Public Safety Diver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Public Safety Diver to perform underwater operations related to public safety.

The responsibilities of a Public Safety Diver include conducting underwater search and recovery missions, performing investigations, assisting in disaster response activities, and ensuring public safety.

Our ideal candidate has a strong swimming ability, proficiency in diving techniques, a solid understanding of emergency response procedures, and the physical stamina to perform strenuous tasks under challenging conditions.

Ultimately, the role of a Public Safety Diver is to carry out underwater operations effectively, ensuring the safety and security of the public.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform underwater search and recovery operations.
• Assist in disaster response activities.
• Perform underwater inspections and investigations.
• Ensure all diving equipment is in good working condition.
• Adhere to safety regulations and procedures.
• Communicate effectively with team members and other emergency service personnel.
• Attend regular training sessions to maintain diving proficiency.
• Provide reports on diving operations and findings.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a professional diver, preferably in a public safety context.
• Strong swimming ability and physical fitness.
• Proficiency in diving techniques and emergency response procedures.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Certification from a recognized diving school.
• High school diploma or equivalent.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Public Safety Diver
• Work Environment: Outdoor and underwater settings in various weather conditions. The role involves physical risk and exposure to hazardous situations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Dive Team Leader or Public Safety Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $70,000 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 Public Safety Diver Do?

Public Safety Divers, also known as PSDs, are specialized professionals who perform underwater tasks in emergency response situations.

They often work with law enforcement agencies, fire departments, or search and rescue teams.

The key responsibilities of Public Safety Divers include conducting search and recovery operations for missing persons, evidence or property lost underwater.

They are trained to operate in various underwater conditions, including murky waters or fast-moving currents.

Part of their job involves performing underwater inspections of public infrastructure such as bridges, dams, or pipelines to identify and assess potential damage.

They may also be involved in environmental conservation efforts like cleaning up underwater debris, removing hazardous materials, or working in disaster-struck areas.

In addition to this, Public Safety Divers also assist in the investigation of criminal cases, where they may be called upon to recover evidence from underwater crime scenes.

Their role also involves maintaining and operating specialized diving equipment, following strict safety procedures, and often working under challenging and stressful conditions.

They must be physically fit, possess excellent swimming skills, and be trained in emergency first aid and life-saving techniques.

 

Public Safety Diver Qualifications and Skills

A professional Public Safety Diver should have the skills and qualifications that align with the demands of the role, including:

• Advanced swimming and diving skills with the ability to navigate in various water conditions, including high currents and low visibility situations.
• Technical knowledge of using diving equipment such as diving suits, masks, breathing apparatus, underwater communication devices, and other safety gear.
• Certification from a recognized diving organization, such as PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors), demonstrating technical diving proficiency.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to handle unexpected situations or emergencies efficiently and effectively underwater.
• Physical fitness and stamina to perform strenuous activities under water for extended periods and to carry heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of first aid and emergency medical procedures, in case of underwater injuries or health issues.
• Communication skills to coordinate with team members and relay critical information effectively during operations.
• Understanding of local waterways, potential hazards, and the ability to use navigational tools.
• Patience and perseverance for potentially long recovery operations and the meticulous collection of evidence, when required.

 

Public Safety Diver Experience Requirements

Public Safety Divers are often required to have significant relevant experience before they’re considered for the role.

Most candidates start with a basic Open Water Diver certification and then progress to higher levels of diving certification.

These certifications provide candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge for safe and efficient underwater operations.

Candidates typically need to have at least 2 to 3 years of diving experience, which can be gained through work in related fields such as commercial diving, marine biology, or military diving.

Public Safety Divers also need to have experience with specific tools and equipment used in search and recovery operations.

This can be gained through specialized training courses or on-the-job training in a related role.

In addition to diving experience, Public Safety Divers often need to have experience in emergency response or medical training.

This can include training as a paramedic, EMT, or firefighter.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in a Public Safety Diving role may have the necessary leadership experience to be considered for a supervisory or management position.

They may also have specialized training in areas such as underwater crime scene investigation or hazardous materials diving.

 

Public Safety Diver Education and Training Requirements

Public Safety Divers typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent education.

They will also need to complete a professional dive training program from a recognized diving institution.

This training includes mastering diving basics, underwater skills, rescue operations, and emergency procedures.

In addition to diving skills, public safety divers should possess strong swimming abilities and a good level of physical fitness.

They must also have a valid diving medical certificate indicating they are fit to dive.

Most states require Public Safety Divers to be certified.

Certification involves completing a comprehensive written and practical examination.

The certification generally needs to be renewed periodically.

Additionally, public safety divers often have a background in emergency services like firefighting, police work, or emergency medical services.

This is because the role can involve search and rescue operations, recovery missions, and assisting in criminal investigations.

While not mandatory, some divers may choose to pursue further training in areas such as underwater photography, evidence handling, or deep-sea diving to enhance their skills and employability.

Continuing education and training are important in this field, as divers must stay up-to-date with the latest equipment, technologies, and safety protocols.

 

Public Safety Diver Salary Expectations

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

This can fluctuate based on level of training, years of experience in the field, geographical location, and the specific department they are employed with.

 

Public Safety Diver Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Public Safety Diver need?

Public Safety Divers require a strong swimming ability and a good level of physical fitness.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills, as they are often required to deal with challenging situations underwater.

Communication and teamwork skills are also crucial, as divers often work in teams and need to relay information clearly and effectively.

Finally, they should have a keen eye for detail to help locate and identify objects or individuals underwater.

 

Do Public Safety Divers need a degree?

While a degree is not mandatory, a certification in diving is essential for a Public Safety Diver.

This can be obtained from a recognized diving institution.

Additionally, many Public Safety Divers have a background in law enforcement, emergency medical services, or firefighting, and any training or certification in these areas would be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Public Safety Diver resume?

Firstly, ensure the candidate holds a valid diving certification.

Experience in public safety roles or in performing underwater tasks such as search and rescue, evidence recovery, or underwater repairs is a strong advantage.

Also, look for demonstrations of physical fitness, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.

 

What qualities make a good Public Safety Diver?

A good Public Safety Diver is highly responsible, as the job often involves life-threatening situations.

They should have excellent judgment and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.

Being physically fit and having endurance is crucial, as divers must be able to handle physically demanding tasks while underwater.

Lastly, they should have a strong sense of teamwork and cooperation, as diving missions often involve working closely with others.

 

Is it difficult to hire Public Safety Divers?

Hiring Public Safety Divers can be challenging due to the specific skills and qualifications required for the role.

The job also involves potential risk, so it may not attract a large pool of candidates.

It’s crucial to offer comprehensive training and to ensure that safety standards and procedures are strictly adhered to in order to attract and retain qualified divers.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve dived deep into the depths of what being a public safety diver truly entails.

Surprised?

It’s not all about diving underwater.

It’s about ensuring safety and security, one dive at a time.

With our handy public safety diver job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to dive right in.

But why leave it at that?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next plunge towards crafting precision-based listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Keep in mind:

Every dive is a part of a bigger mission.

Let’s ensure public safety. Together.

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