How to become a diver
You can get into this job through:
- working towards this role
- applying directly
- training with a professional body
Work
You may be able to apply for diver training through your employer, for example if you're in the police or armed forces. Once qualified, you could work with an underwater unit.
Similarly, if you work in oceanography or marine biology, your employer may put you through specialist diver training, so that you can carry out research tasks under the sea.
Direct Application
You could apply directly for jobs if you've got the relevant diving and safety qualifications.
You'll also need experience relevant to the industry you're working in. For example, you'll need a background in welding to work as an offshore underwater engineer, fixing pipelines.
Other Routes
You'll usually do training with a commercial organisation or professional body to get your diving qualifications.
Training must be approved by the Health and Safety Executive. Examples include courses offered by the:
More Information
Career tips
You might find it useful to have experience of recreational scuba diving before training as a commercial diver.
Many diving schools offer tests to help you decide whether you'll be suited to working underwater.
Further information
You can find out more about commercial and leisure diving careers through the: