Have you always wanted to be a professional Scuba Diver but never quite been sure what it takes to get paid to be a Scuba Diver? Do you have experience leading Scuba diving tours but are not sure how to make Scuba Diving a career? Follow along to learn the path to becoming a paid Scuba Diver!
1. Get certified as an Open Water Diver which is a minimum requirement. This is the entry-level certification for scuba diving but only allows you to do basic Scuba diving. You will need to complete a course from a recognized training agency such as PADI, SSI, NAUI, or others. This usually involves completing coursework, demonstrating skills in the pool and participating in open-water dives.
2. Becoming a Rescue Diver is an important part of leading a group. Most employers will require you to have this level of certification before they hire you because if something goes wrong, they need you to jump in. It is also a good way to develop your understanding of dive safety and emergency procedures and minimizes your risk.
3. Get Divemaster certified! This is the first level of professional certification and enables you to work as an assistant instructor and lead recreational dives. You will need to complete academic and practical courses as well as have completed a minimum number of dives.
4. Take additional specialty courses that not only interest you but that might help run your business. Most professional divers will have additional qualifications, such as deep diver, night diver, wreck diver and underwater photography but don't be afraid of basic accounting or advertising courses.
5. Get certified as an Instructor. This is the highest level of recreational certification and allows you to teach students from beginner level up to Divemaster level, which is key to offering your knowledge to people of all experiences.
6. Choose quality equipment for your diving pursuits. There are relatively few accidents and injuries in scuba diving because of the professionalism and quality in the industry. Keep that trend going - do not use low-quality equipment and be careful where you purchase from!
7. Gain experience in the field of work you are interested in by working as a volunteer or intern for a dive center or organization. One potentially exciting opportunity to experience a local aquariums and conservation authorities.
8. Get your First Aid and CPR certifications up-to-date. Professional diving employers will require these to be current, at a minimum, but additional training will never hurt your business.
9. Apply for jobs that match your experience level and qualifications. Ensure you tailor your resume and cover letter to the job description and highlight any relevant skills or experience you have.
10. Once you have secured a job, make sure you familiarize yourself with the company’s policies and procedures, as well as their safety and emergency protocols.
Following these steps will help get you to that professional position, but what do you think? Was there anything you learned, and was there anything you already knew? Share this with your family and friends to share the knowledge gained and the lessons learned, and maybe someday they will join you on your journey!