Research Diver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of scientific exploration, the demand for research divers has never been greater.

As our understanding of the world beneath the waves deepens, the need for skilled professionals capable of navigating and investigating our underwater ecosystems grows stronger.

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

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to comprehend the core of this role,
• A hiring manager constructing the profile of an ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the mysteries of marine research,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Research Diver Duties and Responsibilities

Research Divers have the responsibility to conduct underwater investigations and surveys, often related to scientific or conservation projects.

They are required to be skilled divers and also have a deep understanding of scientific principles.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conduct underwater surveys and investigations for scientific research
• Collect specimens and data for analysis and interpretation
• Use a variety of technical diving equipment and underwater tools
• Monitor and document changes in marine life, geology, and underwater habitats
• Follow strict safety protocols to ensure the well-being of themselves and their team
• Write detailed reports and document research findings
• Work closely with researchers, scientists, and other professionals to conduct studies and experiments
• Assist in the maintenance and repair of diving equipment and underwater apparatus
• Participate in the planning of diving operations and safety briefings

 

Research Diver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a capable and adventurous Research Diver to carry out underwater scientific studies.

Responsibilities include conducting underwater surveys, collecting data and samples, maintaining diving equipment, and ensuring the safety of the dive team.

Our ideal candidate is a certified diver with a strong background in marine biology or a related field and is comfortable with using scientific and diving equipment.

Ultimately, the role of the Research Diver is to assist in the collection and analysis of data that contributes to our understanding of the underwater world, while ensuring the safety and integrity of the dive team.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct underwater research and data collection
• Carry out routine maintenance of diving equipment
• Plan and execute dive missions in coordination with the dive team
• Ensure adherence to safety regulations and procedures
• Collaborate with scientists and researchers to understand research objectives
• Document research findings and produce reports
• Handle and transport specimens collected from dive sites
• Participate in training and development activities
• Follow environmental conservation guidelines during dives

 

Qualifications

• Certified diver with professional dive training
• Experience in scientific research or related field
• Knowledge of marine biology, oceanography, or related field
• Good physical fitness and swimming ability
• Ability to handle scientific and diving equipment
• Good understanding of dive safety and emergency procedures
• Ability to work in challenging and unpredictable environments
• Strong attention to detail and observational skills
• Degree in Marine Biology, Oceanography or related field is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunity to work in unique locations and environments

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Research Diver
• Work Environment: Field work in various locations, including potentially remote or challenging environments. Some office work may be required for data analysis and reporting.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Scientist or Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 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 Research Diver Do?

Research Divers are scientific professionals who perform underwater tasks related to various research fields such as marine biology, archaeology, geology and more.

They work for various institutions including universities, research institutions, and government agencies.

Their primary duty involves planning and executing scientific diving operations to gather data for research.

This can include collecting samples of plants, animals, water, or soil from various depths of the ocean or other bodies of water, deploying or maintaining underwater equipment, or conducting surveys and mapping.

They may also be involved in underwater archaeological tasks such as examining shipwrecks or submerged ruins, or geological tasks like studying rock formations and sediment patterns.

Research Divers are responsible for maintaining their diving gear and ensuring safety protocols are followed during diving operations.

They are also required to document their findings and contribute to scientific reports and publications.

In some cases, Research Divers may work in challenging environments and face physical risks, so they must be well-trained in emergency procedures and first aid, and be physically fit.

 

Research Diver Qualifications and Skills

Research divers are professionals who perform a variety of underwater tasks for scientific research purposes.

They require a unique combination of diving skills and scientific knowledge.

• SCUBA certification, preferably an advanced or master level, to ensure safety and proficiency in underwater operations.
• Knowledge of marine biology or geology to assist in research and data collection
• Technical diving skills to operate underwater equipment and tools, perform underwater surveys, and collect samples
• Physical fitness and endurance to withstand the rigors of diving, including being able to swim long distances or for extended periods.
• Knowledge of safety procedures to prevent accidents and to manage emergency situations effectively.
• Data collection and analysis skills to record accurate data and interpret it for the benefit of the research project
• Problem-solving skills to deal with unexpected situations underwater or issues with equipment
• Communication skills to effectively work in a team, relay findings, and write reports
• Familiarity with marine conservation and environmental policies to ensure research practices are sustainable and do not harm ecosystems

 

Research Diver Experience Requirements

Entry-level research divers generally need to have completed a recognized professional diving course or a scientific diving program.

These programs provide an understanding of diving physics and physiology, equipment, dive planning, safety, and underwater navigation, as well as specific research techniques.

Candidates should also have a certain amount of logged dives, possibly around 50 to 100, showcasing their practical underwater experience.

Many organizations also require additional experience in the specific type of research the diver will be conducting, such as marine biology, archaeology, geology or hydrology.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have had exposure to a variety of research projects and environments.

They might have developed advanced skills in underwater photography, data collection, and use of specialized equipment.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have additional qualifications such as a dive master or instructor certification, or a degree in a related field like marine science.

They are often responsible for planning and leading research expeditions, and may have experience in training and supervising less experienced divers.

 

Research Diver Education and Training Requirements

Research divers typically need a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, marine science, or a related field.

Some positions, especially those involving scientific research or underwater archaeology, may require a master’s degree or doctorate in a specialized discipline.

In addition to academic qualifications, research divers must have professional diving certification from an accredited diving organization such as the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) or the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI).

This certification includes both classroom instruction and practical training in diving safety, equipment handling, underwater navigation, and emergency procedures.

Research divers are also required to have a medical fitness certificate, verifying that they are physically fit for diving.

This typically involves a detailed medical examination including a check of the cardiovascular system, lungs, and ears, among other things.

To work on specific projects or in certain environments, research divers may need additional specialized training.

For example, those working in cold-water environments may need ice diving training, and those involved in underwater archaeology may need training in archaeological survey and excavation techniques.

Continuing education is important in this field as it keeps divers updated on the latest diving equipment, safety procedures, and scientific research techniques.

Many research divers also attend workshops and conferences to network with other professionals and to stay informed about developments in their field.

 

Research Diver Salary Expectations

A Research Diver earns an average salary of $52,980 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can fluctuate based on factors such as the level of experience, the complexity of the assigned tasks, the employing organization, and the location of the job.

 

Research Diver Job Description FAQs

What skills does a research diver need?

Research divers should have excellent swimming skills and be physically fit to withstand the demanding underwater environment.

They should also have scientific diving skills and training in the use of underwater research equipment and techniques.

Research divers should have a thorough understanding of diving safety and first aid procedures.

They also need to have good observational skills to record and report their findings accurately.

 

Do research divers need a degree?

Most research divers need at least a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, oceanography, or a related field.

They also need professional diving training and certification.

Some positions may require advanced degrees or specialized training in a specific area of marine research.

 

What should you look for in a research diver resume?

A research diver’s resume should clearly state their diving qualifications and experience, including any specialized training they have received, such as deep-sea diving or using underwater vehicles.

The resume should also detail their research experience and any relevant scientific knowledge or skills.

Experience with data collection, analysis, and report writing are also valuable skills for a research diver.

 

What qualities make a good research diver?

A good research diver should be physically fit, have a keen interest in marine science, and be able to work well in a team.

They should be detail-oriented and have good problem-solving skills to handle any issues that may arise during a dive.

Good communication skills are also vital, as they need to accurately report their findings and often need to coordinate closely with other team members.

 

Is it difficult to hire research divers?

Hiring research divers can be challenging due to the specific combination of skills and qualifications required, including both scientific expertise and professional diving experience.

However, this can also depend on the nature of the research and the resources available to the hiring organization.

It’s important to offer competitive compensation and opportunities for career development in order to attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve plunged into the depths to explore the role of a research diver.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about swimming underwater.

It’s about exploring the unseen world beneath the waves, one dive at a time.

With our comprehensive research diver job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make a splash.

But why stop there?

Submerge yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards perfecting your job listings or tailoring your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each dive is a part of a greater exploration.

Let’s uncover the mysteries of the deep. Together.

How to Become a Research Diver (Complete Guide)

Top Dollar Careers: How to Land the Highest Paying Jobs in Your Field!

Strangely Satisfying: Bizarre Jobs People Love

The Unautomatable: Professions Safe from AI’s Grip

Pushing Past Limits: The Unbelievable Stress in These Careers!