Ship Husbandry Diver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the maritime industry, the focus on Ship Husbandry Divers has become paramount.
As marine technology evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can maintain, repair, and ensure the safety of our marine vessels escalates.
But what does a Ship Husbandry Diver role truly entail?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply captivated by the intricate world of underwater ship maintenance,
You’ve docked at the right port.
Today, we present a customizable Ship Husbandry Diver job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Ship Husbandry Diver Duties and Responsibilities
Ship Husbandry Divers are responsible for performing underwater maintenance and repair tasks on ships.
They use professional diving equipment and tools to inspect, repair, remove, or install parts and structures of the ship.
The duties and responsibilities of a Ship Husbandry Diver include:
- Performing underwater inspections of ships and other marine structures
- Carrying out underwater repairs such as welding, cutting, and fitting of ship parts
- Removing and installing propellers, shafts, and other underwater components
- Using underwater tools and equipment effectively and safely
- Maintaining and repairing diving equipment and tools
- Performing non-destructive testing to assess the condition of the ship’s structure
- Cleaning ship hulls, propellers, and sea chests of marine growth and debris
- Documenting and reporting findings of underwater inspections
- Working in adverse underwater conditions, such as poor visibility or strong currents
- Adhering to safety protocols and procedures to ensure the well-being of the diver and crew
Ship Husbandry Diver Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a skilled and capable Ship Husbandry Diver to join our team.
The Ship Husbandry Diver will be responsible for performing underwater inspections, maintenance, and repairs on ships.
This role involves working in challenging environments and requires strong physical fitness, technical knowledge, and a commitment to safety protocols.
Responsibilities
- Conducting routine inspections of ship hulls and propellers
- Performing maintenance and repair tasks such as cleaning, painting, and welding
- Using a variety of diving equipment and tools appropriately
- Adhering to all safety regulations and protocols
- Communicating effectively with team members above water
- Documenting inspection findings and completed repair work
- Identifying potential problems and suggesting appropriate solutions
- Attending regular training sessions to update skills and knowledge
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a professional diver, preferably in ship husbandry
- Knowledge of basic ship construction and maintenance
- Proficiency in using diving equipment and tools
- Physical fitness and ability to work in challenging underwater conditions
- Understanding of safety regulations and procedures
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Certification from a recognized diving school
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Health and dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Opportunities for professional development
- Physical fitness program
Additional Information
- Job Title: Ship Husbandry Diver
- Work Environment: This role involves working underwater in potentially challenging conditions. It may require travel and irregular working hours.
- 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.
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if travel is required)
- 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 Ship Husbandry Diver Do?
Ship Husbandry Divers are specialized professionals who work primarily in the maritime industry, with a focus on underwater ship maintenance and repairs.
They perform underwater inspections of ships and other marine structures to identify areas that require maintenance or repair.
This can include inspecting the hull, propellers, rudders, and other underwater components.
They also clean and perform necessary repairs on the underwater parts of the ship.
This can involve removing marine growth, checking for cracks or damage, replacing or repairing parts, and applying protective coatings.
Their tasks may also include salvaging wrecked ships and other underwater structures, recovering lost equipment, or even aiding in underwater construction projects.
Ship Husbandry Divers are highly trained and certified, often needing to be proficient in different types of diving and possess a comprehensive understanding of ship construction and repair methods.
Their job is a crucial one as the condition of the underwater parts of a ship can greatly affect the ship’s performance, safety, and lifespan.
Hence, these divers play a vital role in ensuring the operational readiness and longevity of maritime vessels.
Ship Husbandry Diver Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Ship Husbandry Diver should have the skills and qualifications that comply with the job requirements, such as:
- Proficiency in diving operations with considerable knowledge in the field of commercial diving and maritime industry.
- Exceptional underwater inspection skills, including the ability to identify potential structural issues or damages to the vessel.
- Strong swimming skills and physical stamina to endure long periods underwater and in potentially harsh conditions.
- Technical skills to operate and maintain a variety of diving equipment and tools required for underwater repairs and maintenance.
- Proficiency in underwater welding and cutting processes for ship repair and maintenance.
- Good communication skills to effectively coordinate with the team above water, report findings, and understand instructions.
- Problem-solving skills to identify, analyze, and address issues encountered during diving operations.
- Knowledge of safety procedures and emergency response protocols in case of diving accidents or hazards.
- A valid commercial diving certificate from a recognized institution and relevant experience in the field.
- Ability to work under pressure and in confined spaces, maintaining a calm and composed demeanor.
Ship Husbandry Diver Experience Requirements
Ship Husbandry Divers often have some years of professional experience in commercial diving, ideally with a focus on underwater construction, inspection, or maintenance.
This experience may have been gained from previous roles such as Underwater Welder, Commercial Diver, Underwater Inspector or Marine Construction Diver.
Candidates for this role are generally expected to hold a commercial diving certification from a recognized institution.
This training provides the technical knowledge and practical skills necessary for work in submerged environments.
Entry-level Ship Husbandry Divers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through diving internships or part-time roles in related marine fields.
These professionals can also gain experience in roles such as Diving Support Technician or ROV Pilot.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their technical diving skills and knowledge in entry-level ship husbandry or commercial diving roles.
They may have also gained experience in underwater welding, non-destructive testing techniques, or underwater cutting procedures.
Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have significant expertise in underwater inspection, repair, and maintenance procedures.
They may have some leadership experience in their background and may be ready for a supervisory or team-lead position in ship husbandry diving.
Ship Husbandry Diver Education and Training Requirements
Ship Husbandry Divers generally need to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Post-high school, potential divers often attend a commercial diving academy approved by the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI).
These programs, which typically last for a few months, offer theoretical and practical training in various aspects of diving and underwater work.
The commercial diving certification is mandatory and is usually part of the training program at the diving academy.
This certification is crucial for divers to understand the safety protocols and techniques necessary for the job.
Due to the technical nature of the job, Ship Husbandry Divers also need to have a strong understanding of marine mechanics, welding, and other related skills.
These can be gained through additional coursework, on-the-job training, or vocational programs.
In addition, as the job involves maintaining and repairing ships, previous experience in shipbuilding or repair may be beneficial.
While not a requirement, a certification as a marine mechanic or in a similar field can be advantageous and may provide additional career opportunities.
Knowledge of first aid and CPR is generally required due to the potential dangers involved in the work.
Many employers also require divers to pass a physical examination and a diving medical exam to ensure that they are fit for the role.
Continuing education is often encouraged to keep abreast of the latest technologies and techniques in the field.
Ship Husbandry Diver Salary Expectations
A Ship Husbandry Diver earns an average salary of $52,980 (USD) per year.
However, this can significantly fluctuate based on the diver’s level of experience, training, location, and the company they work for.
Ship Husbandry Diver Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Ship Husbandry Diver need?
A Ship Husbandry Diver should have excellent underwater swimming skills, manual dexterity to handle tools and equipment, mechanical aptitude to understand ship structures, and good communication skills for team coordination.
They should also be physically fit to endure the demanding nature of underwater work and have a good understanding of safety procedures.
Do Ship Husbandry Divers need a specific degree or certification?
While a degree is not mandatory, having a high school diploma or equivalent is usually required.
Ship Husbandry Divers must also complete a professional diving course approved by a recognized diving organization.
It’s crucial for them to obtain a commercial diving certification and undergo training in first aid and underwater rescue.
What should you look for in a Ship Husbandry Diver resume?
You should look for a commercial diving certification, experience in ship husbandry diving, and knowledge of ship structures and marine growth.
Proven skills in underwater welding, cutting, and rigging are beneficial.
A good candidate should also demonstrate a strong understanding of safety procedures and emergency response training.
What qualities make a good Ship Husbandry Diver?
A good Ship Husbandry Diver should be resilient, capable of working under pressure, and comfortable in confined spaces.
They should have excellent attention to detail, the ability to problem-solve, and strong teamwork skills.
Physical fitness, resilience, and a calm disposition in emergencies are also critical qualities.
Is there a high demand for Ship Husbandry Divers?
The demand for Ship Husbandry Divers can vary based on the marine industry’s needs.
They’re crucial for maintaining, repairing, and inspecting ships, so there is a consistent need.
However, this role can be competitive due to the limited number of positions and the specialized skills required.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve delved beneath the surface to reveal the true nature of the role of a ship husbandry diver.
What’s the big reveal?
It’s not just about diving.
It’s about ensuring the smooth sailing of our maritime industry, one dive at a time.
With our specialized ship husbandry diver job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to plunge into a new career path.
But why limit your exploration here?
Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to accurately crafted job listings or for refining your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every dive is a part of the larger maritime mission.
Let’s navigate these waters. Together.
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