If you’re passionate about diving but unsure how to turn it into a professional career, a summer scuba job could be a perfect entry point for you. Seasonal scuba gigs can be a fun way to earn some cash, or spark a deeper interest in a long-term diving career. You won’t know until you give it a try!
To save you some time, we’ve compiled a list of the best scuba jobs for the summer. To get an idea of the roles available and how you can qualify, check out the options below.
PADI Divemaster
Divemasters are “dive leaders” with a solid amount of experience in the water. They have many responsibilities that include planning dive trips, overseeing the safety of other divers, and managing any issues that may arise. Divemasters often help instructors teach scuba courses, although they cannot teach all PADI courses independently. They can, however, teach several “fins off” conservation courses with the proper training.
Depending on the opportunities, you could work at different locations around the world within the span of a summer, and there are numerous benefits that come from a Divemaster job. But, at this level, diving is more of a lifestyle than a job.
If you’re interested in becoming a Divemaster, but you haven’t fulfilled all the requirements yet, here is an article that outlines how the process works. Alternatively, if you’re not sure whether you want to stay a Divemaster or become a PADI Instructor, you can weigh the two options by perusing this blog.
PADI Instructor
We’ve all experienced the impact that a passionate teacher can have on us. An amazing dive instructor can properly set a student up with a meaningful, lifelong passion for roaming the oceans. If you’ve already completed the PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC), then you have the opportunity to start shaping people’s lives as soon as this summer! This important scuba job can also serve as a platform to teach students about ocean conservation, a pressing issue that demands our immediate attention and action.
If you aren’t a certified Instructor, there are a number of requirements you must meet before your IDC. However, if you’ve completed those prerequisites already, you can finish the PADI IDC and IE in about 10 to 14 days total.
On top of that, becoming a PADI Instructor can open up many opportunities in your own life. You could get the chance to work at different dive locations around the world. Here is a firsthand account of a diver whose life was completely changed by becoming a PADI Instructor.
Dive Shop Staff
Working as part of a dive shop staff for the summer would offer an enriching and rewarding experience for diving enthusiasts. As a dive shop staff member, you would have the opportunity to interact with customers, assist in equipment rental, sales, and scheduling dives, while sharing your passion for diving with others.
Moreover, being employed at a dive shop sometimes comes with the advantage of obtaining free or discounted dive courses, enabling staff members to further their diving education and certifications. This not only enhances personal skills but also opens doors to potential career advancement within the diving industry, making it an attractive and fulfilling summer job option.
Film Production Safety Diver
In the world of underwater film production, safety divers play a crucial role. Whether it’s a scripted film like Aquaman or a documentary series like Planet Earth III, safety divers are responsible for overseeing divers and non-divers on set, making this a demanding and dynamic job.
If this piques your interest, then you’ll have to meet a few requirements. A safety diver must be qualified as a Divemaster or above, and therefore certified as a Rescue Diver. While production companies can have varying prerequisites, the more technical qualifications you possess, the better your chances of receiving a part time role.
Dive Boat Crew
Working on a dive boat is a great way to combine a love for the ocean with a fulfilling job. As a crew member, responsibilities may include assisting divers, ensuring their safety, managing equipment, and guiding diving excursions. Furthermore, the role often offers a chance to work closely with divers from diverse backgrounds and skill levels, fostering a vibrant and welcoming environment.
Some dive boat positions offer the advantage of participating in dives and expeditions, allowing crew members to explore new dive sites and marine environments. Overall, working as part of a dive boat crew not only allows for an adventurous summer job but also offers a pathway to deepen diving expertise while enjoying the beauty of the underwater world.
Underwater Photographer/Videographer
For those who believe in the power of a beautiful image, few jobs offer greater fulfillment than capturing and sharing the breathtaking wonders of the underwater world. While this can seem like an elusive dream job, the fundamental requirements include diving and becoming adept at handling a camera underwater. To help build your confidence, you can take courses like PADI Digital Underwater Photographer or PADI Underwater Videographer. These courses can equip you with a portfolio as you foray into the professional world of underwater photography or videography.
Summer is the perfect season to spend all day in the water, so why not get paid to do just that? If you already meet the requirements for these scuba jobs, then see what roles are out there now. For those who are missing a certification or two, take the plunge and become a PADI Professional. Explore the possibilities now!