What will you do?
You inspect or maintain underwater structures as part of an organised diving team. Assignments may involve quay walls, locks or salvage, depending on your training and the project. You record findings for the client and check equipment according to agreed procedures. Operating an ROV is a separate specialism; a diver is not automatically an ROV pilot.
- Prepare diving operations
- Carry out dives for works, inspection or salvage
- Provide assistance underwater
- Maintain the diving equipment
- Keep work records
- Work safely and with respect for the environment
Skills to develop
- Excellent physical condition and medical fitness
- Stress-resistant and calm in emergencies
- Technical skills such as welding or construction are an asset
- Working smoothly with the surface team
Your foundation for this occupation
Commercial diving needs vocational training and appropriate medical fitness. Recreational certification does not replace these. Ask about underwater tasks, methods and recognition for the project. Diving competence and the underwater trade are separate.
From preparation to your first day
Develop the practical skills
Understand the assignment and surface-team communication. Practise within supervised training and required organisation. Inspection, maintenance and salvage need different skills. ROV operation is separate from diving; clarify the vacancy.
Check your work
Record observations usefully and separate facts from conclusions needing investigation. Report equipment issues and changes through the plan. Support and emergency organisation are part of preparation.
How can you grow?
Specialise in inspection or a technical trade with further training. Compare inland, port and offshore qualifications, travel and teams. Ask about medical follow-up and experience records.
Frequently asked questions
Is an ROV pilot a commercial diver?
No. The pilot operates a remotely controlled underwater vehicle; a diver works underwater personally. They may cooperate but training and responsibility differ.