What does a Commercial Diver earn?

On average, commercial divers in the U.S. can earn around $82,010 per year. They work in often hazardous and dangerous conditions to provide underwater construction, salvage, welding, inspection and repair services. Specialised commercial divers may focus on areas such as underwater photography, videography, archaeology, nuclear inspection and maintenance.

How to earn more as a Commercial Diver

To become a Commercial Diver, you will need relevant qualifications such as a Diver Medical Technician Certificate or an Underwater Welding Operators Course. Alternatively, you can look into trade school or apprenticeship programs to learn on-the-job. More experienced and qualified Commercial Divers can earn more money by specialising in offshore saturation diving, underwater video and photography, deep sea welding, underwater salvage and bridge inspections. It is also possible to become self-employed and establish your own diving business.