Most divers beginning a career in the tourist industry start out as dive instructors. Dive instructors should have a decent level of underwater experience before starting out; usually between 60 and 100 hours. Following this, prospective instructors should complete a professional diving qualification such as the PADI or the NAUI.
Hours of work tend to be normal office hours of 9:00 until 18:00; up to six days a week at the busiest times. Instructors should be hardworking, with a keen eye for detail. Safety is of paramount importance and instructors must take responsibility for all those in their party.
Instructors also get to meet a wide range of people, and the dive industry is well-known for its vibrant social life. However, it’s important to remember the significance of the more tedious jobs such as maintaining and cleaning equipment
Once divers are qualified they are sometimes employed in specialist industries, working with marine biologists, oil and gas companies, police forces and even TV crews
Besides the professional diving qualifications, no other special qualifications are necessary. However, a Bachelors degree in marine biology is required for certain roles. Full-time dive instructors in the UK tend to earn in the region of £25,000, with this increasing for specialist positions. Some specialist divers will also be employed on a freelance basis.