Commercial Divers
Commercial divers work underwater using scuba equipment or surface-supplied air to inspect, repair, install, and remove structures and equipment. They work on tasks ranging from routine inspections to complex construction projects, operating in harbors, rivers, offshore platforms, and other underwater environments. The work involves using power tools, welding equipment, and specialized diving gear.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against commercial divers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A commercial diver's week typically includes equipment checks, safety briefings, and hours spent underwater performing assigned tasks. Work might involve inspecting pipeline integrity, removing debris, installing underwater fixtures, or conducting repairs using tools like drills and torches. Surface intervals include decompression time, equipment maintenance, and documentation. Weather and water conditions often dictate scheduling, with divers working in varying depths and visibility.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're suited for this work if you're detail-oriented and curious about how systems function—the investigative interest helps you troubleshoot problems underwater. You prefer hands-on work in real environments over theory, and you're comfortable with technical training, certifications, and ongoing skill development to stay safe and effective.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $136,260 | $161,800 | $250,940 | — |
| New York | $97,820 | $157,800 | $157,820 | 170 |
| Rhode Island | $126,320 | $126,320 | $126,340 | — |
| California | $39,980 | $101,540 | $131,110 | 310 |
| Hawaii | $72,480 | $95,750 | $101,180 | 70 |
| New Jersey | $66,860 | $86,920 | $89,130 | — |
| Arizona | $85,810 | $85,990 | $85,990 | — |
| Vermont | $83,260 | $85,780 | $101,690 | 80 |
| Indiana | $79,040 | $83,510 | $87,370 | — |
| Maine | $38,140 | $74,610 | $80,100 | — |
| Kentucky | $62,140 | $63,550 | $78,520 | — |
| Missouri | $50,710 | $63,030 | $89,530 | — |
All 19 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Open Water Diver — Professional Association of Diving Instructors
- Entry Level Tender Diver — Association of Diving Contractors International
- Diver Medic Technician (DMT) — National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology
- Air Diving Supervisor — Association of Diving Contractors International
- Mixed Gas Diving Supervisor — Association of Diving Contractors International
- Bell/Saturation Diving Supervisor — Association of Diving Contractors International
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against commercial divers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 49-9092.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.