Search and Rescue Diver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the vast expanse of the oceans and seas, the importance of Search and Rescue Divers has never been more crucial.

As marine activities increase, the demand for skilled professionals capable of executing complex underwater rescues has grown, making their role an essential part of maritime safety.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a Search and Rescue Diver?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager mapping out the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the realm of underwater rescue,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable Search and Rescue Diver job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s plunge right into it.

Search and Rescue Diver Duties and Responsibilities

Search and Rescue Divers play a critical role in emergency response, utilizing specialized training and equipment to conduct underwater searches and rescues.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Perform search and rescue missions, often in challenging and dangerous conditions
• Use sonar and other equipment to locate missing persons or objects underwater
• Rescue distressed persons and recover deceased persons or objects
• Provide first aid and emergency medical care, including CPR, when necessary
• Maintain and inspect diving equipment, ensuring it is in working order
• Collaborate with other rescue team members, law enforcement, and emergency medical personnel
• Train regularly to maintain fitness and diving skills, and to stay up-to-date with latest rescue techniques and equipment
• Prepare detailed reports and documentation on each rescue mission
• Follow all safety protocols and procedures to minimize risk during rescue operations

 

Search and Rescue Diver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Search and Rescue Diver to join our team.

You will be responsible for conducting underwater search and rescue operations in different environments and water bodies, providing immediate first aid to victims, and working closely with other emergency services.

Our ideal candidate is a certified diver with rescue or emergency experience, has excellent swimming skills, is physically fit, and has the ability to stay calm under extreme pressure.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform underwater search and rescue operations in various conditions and environments
• Provide immediate first aid and life support measures to victims
• Use and maintain various types of diving equipment and gear
• Work closely with other emergency services and provide support during operations
• Prepare reports and document all operations and incidents
• Participate in regular training and skill development programs
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and procedures
• Inspect and maintain all rescue equipment and gear
• Assist in the recovery of bodies and evidence as required

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a professional diver, preferably in search and rescue operations
• Certified diver with rescue or emergency response training
• Excellent swimming skills and physical fitness
• Ability to operate and maintain diving equipment and gear
• Ability to work under extreme pressure and in challenging environments
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Pension plan
• Paid time off
• Regular training and skill development programs

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Search and Rescue Diver
• Work Environment: Field based with potential exposure to hazardous and challenging conditions. Role involves working in different water bodies and environments.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Search and Rescue Team Leader or Emergency Services Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $110,000 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, diving certifications, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Search and Rescue Diver Do?

Search and Rescue Divers are specialized professionals trained to perform underwater rescues and recovery missions in various types of water bodies such as oceans, rivers, and lakes.

These divers undertake a range of tasks that include locating and recovering lost divers, rescuing those in distress, and retrieving evidence or bodies as part of criminal investigations.

They are also responsible for inspecting and maintaining their diving equipment, ensuring it is in good working order and ready for any emergency situations.

Search and Rescue Divers often work in challenging and hazardous conditions, requiring not only technical diving skills but also advanced emergency medical skills and physical stamina.

They may work with local law enforcement, fire departments, military units, or as part of a volunteer organization.

In addition to their rescue duties, they are usually required to undergo regular training exercises to ensure they are always prepared for any underwater situation that may arise.

In the event of a disaster or emergency, a Search and Rescue Diver must be able to respond quickly and efficiently, often working under intense pressure to save lives and recover vital evidence.

 

Search and Rescue Diver Qualifications and Skills

A Search and Rescue Diver should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Extensive experience in diving, with a comprehensive understanding of diving equipment and the physical aspects of deep-sea diving.
• Strong swimming skills, stamina, and physical fitness to handle the strenuous nature of underwater search and rescue operations.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to rapidly and effectively respond to emergencies and unexpected situations during rescue operations.
• Ability to work well as part of a team, often under intense and stressful circumstances, leveraging strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Outstanding navigational abilities to operate effectively underwater, often in poor visibility conditions.
• Knowledge of first aid and emergency medical procedures, including CPR and the use of AEDs.
• Ability to stay calm and make critical decisions under pressure, often in life or death situations.
• Experience in using sonar equipment for underwater search missions is a plus.
• Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulations concerning search and rescue operations.

 

Search and Rescue Diver Experience Requirements

To become a Search and Rescue Diver, individuals usually require a substantial amount of training and experience.

This begins with basic open water certification from a recognized diving organization, such as PADI or SSI, which provides foundational knowledge and skills.

From there, divers typically progress to advanced open water and rescue diver certifications.

These advanced courses provide further practical experience and critical skills related to emergency procedures and rescue operations.

Additionally, divers must have significant experience in challenging water conditions and environments.

Many organizations require hundreds of logged dives before considering a candidate for a Search and Rescue Diver role.

Specialized training in areas like underwater navigation, night diving, deep diving, and search and recovery can also be extremely beneficial.

Candidates with more than 3 to 5 years of regular diving experience, coupled with advanced certifications, are generally considered for Search and Rescue Diver roles.

Those with additional experience in roles such as Dive Master, Dive Instructor, or Commercial Diver may be more competitive for these roles.

Moreover, some roles may demand additional training or experience in first aid or medical treatment, as well as physical endurance and mental resilience due to the challenging nature of the job.

 

Search and Rescue Diver Education and Training Requirements

Search and Rescue Divers are required to have completed high school or equivalent education.

They must also undergo specialized diving training which includes Open Water Diver certification as the basic requirement.

However, the profession requires Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver certifications.

All these certifications must be obtained from a recognized diving training organization such as Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) or Scuba Schools International (SSI).

In addition to these, Search and Rescue Divers should also be certified in First Aid, CPR, and Emergency Oxygen Administration.

A course in Underwater Navigation is also beneficial.

Many Search and Rescue Divers have further training in specialized areas such as cave diving, wreck diving, or ice diving.

Some divers may also acquire additional skills in underwater crime scene investigation or marine biology.

Physical fitness is crucial for this role.

Hence, candidates must pass a medical examination to ensure they are fit for diving and able to handle the physical demands of the job.

Because the work involves emergency response, a Search and Rescue Diver should have good problem-solving skills, be able to work under pressure, and be capable of making quick decisions.

Therefore, training in crisis management and emergency response can be beneficial.

Experience is highly valued in this profession.

Many divers start their careers working in recreational diving or other related fields to gain underwater experience before moving into search and rescue.

Continuing education and training are essential for Search and Rescue Divers to stay up-to-date with the latest diving techniques and emergency response procedures.

 

Search and Rescue Diver Salary Expectations

A Search and Rescue Diver can expect to earn an average salary of approximately $50,000 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can vary significantly depending on the individual’s level of experience, qualifications, the complexity of the operations they are involved in, and the region in which they are employed.

Additional factors that can affect pay include whether they are working for a private organization or a governmental entity.

 

Search and Rescue Diver Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Search and Rescue Diver need?

A Search and Rescue Diver needs exceptional swimming skills and physical endurance to withstand harsh underwater conditions.

They also need excellent navigation and observational skills to find victims effectively.

Proficiency in using diving equipment and emergency medical procedures is crucial.

Apart from physical skills, a strong mental resolve is also necessary to deal with stressful and sometimes traumatic situations.

 

Do Search and Rescue Divers need any specific qualifications?

Yes, Search and Rescue Divers need to be trained and certified in diving from a reputable training institution.

This may include open water diver certification, advanced diver certification, and rescue diver certification.

Additional training in First Aid, CPR, and emergency oxygen use is also essential.

Some positions may require a degree in a related field like marine biology or public safety.

 

What should you look for in a Search and Rescue Diver’s resume?

The resume of a Search and Rescue Diver should showcase their certifications and level of experience in diving.

It should also list any rescue missions they have been part of and the outcome.

Look for qualifications in first aid, emergency medical procedures, and specialized equipment usage.

Evidence of physical fitness and mental resilience is also important.

 

What qualities make a good Search and Rescue Diver?

A good Search and Rescue Diver is physically fit, mentally resilient, and has a calm demeanor even under pressure.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills, as they will often need to think quickly in emergencies.

They must be disciplined and good team players as rescue missions require well-coordinated team efforts.

A deep respect for safety protocols and a genuine commitment to helping others are also key qualities.

 

Is it challenging to hire Search and Rescue Divers?

Yes, hiring Search and Rescue Divers can be challenging due to the specialized skills, qualifications, and mental and physical attributes required for the job.

The pool of candidates with the necessary qualifications and experience is often smaller than in other professions, and the high-risk nature of the job may deter some potential applicants.

Therefore, it is crucial to offer competitive salaries, benefits, and ongoing professional development opportunities to attract and retain these skilled professionals.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we delved beneath the surface to reveal what it truly takes to be a search and rescue diver.

Guess what?

It’s not just about swimming.

It’s about shaping a safer future, one rescue dive at a time.

With our comprehensive search and rescue diver job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to plunge in.

But why stop there?

Go even further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every dive is a part of the larger mission.

Let’s shape that safer future. Together.

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