DIVING AND HYDROGRAPHY
If you are interested in working in a career which looks below the sea you might like to follow the link to learn more about becoming a Marine Hydrographer.
Roles
Divers work underwater at sea, or in rivers, lakes, canals and reservoirs.Many divers work in the offshore oil and gas industries using their skills to carry out maintenance (e.g. thermal cutting or welding) and conduct inspections on pipes, cables and structures like oil rigs. Inspection may involve taking photographs or videos.
Concern for the environment has led to new developments which may also require divers to work on offshore wind farms etc.
Scientific work – marine biologists sometimes dive to carry out research. Archeologists may also train as divers to specialise in surveying wreckages.
Marine civil engineering work carried out inshore may involve working on projects such as surveying or repairing bridges, ports or harbours. Work can be found anywhere in the world and is usually on a contract basis.
Qualifications and Training
To be a diver, you don’t need any set educational qualifications.
Some people train to be a commercial diver as part of their work, perhaps in the Armed forces or the police.
If you want to work in the commercial marine industry you will need to train with a commercial organisation or professional body to get your diving 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.
It is essential to gain recognised, approved qualifications appropriate for the type of diving you intend to do. The HSE approves qualifications in the UK, and a list of these can be found on their website.
Salary Brackets
Most divers are self-employed. Pay varies and depends on inshore/offshore, experience and the level of the role undertaken, for instance as a diver or supervisor.
Colleges/Universities
https://www.adc-uk.info/diving-schools/
Commercial Diver Training Limited
https://www.commercialdivertraining.co.uk
Professional Diving Academy
http://www.professionaldivingacademy.com
Health & Safety Executive - information on careers and lists approved diving qualifications and diver competence assessor organisations: www.hse.gov.uk/diving
The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) – tel: +44 (0)20 7824 5520. Website has careers information, links to members around the world and lists approved training providers: www.imca-int.com/careers.
GOOD TO KNOW
Before starting a training course to become a commercial diver, you need a certificate of fitness to dive from a medical examiner approved by an appropriate body, such as the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK; this is renewed annually.
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.
APPRENTICESHIPS
| Intermediate apprenticeships | Advanced apprenticeships | Higher apprenticeships | Degree apprenticeships |
| Intermediate apprenticeships are the entry-level apprenticeship for those looking to make a start in the world of work. Available to anyone from the age of 16, with no maximum age limit, they’re also a great option for anyone looking to make a career change. You’ll need five GCSEs grade A*-E/ 3-9 including Maths and English, as well as a Science subject to apply for an engineering or technical role, or two National 4s including Maths and English (or equivalent). | You can apply for an advanced apprenticeship if you have five GCSEs or National 4 (or equivalent), including Maths and English, as well as a Science subject to apply for an engineering or technical role, or you’ve completed an intermediate apprenticeship or similar Level 2 qualification. They’re full-time roles, with a competitive salary and they’re a great way to develop specialist skills. | Higher apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 18 who is looking for an alternative to attending university. You’ll need at least five GCSEs or National 5 + Highers (or equivalent) including Maths and English, as well as a Science subject to apply for an engineering or technical role. Additionally, you’ll require a minimum of two A levels or a level 3 equivalent qualification. | Degree apprenticeships are great for 18–19-year-old school leavers looking to gain a degree while also starting their career journey. It’s the perfect option for those who can’t decide between an apprenticeship and university. They’re also a great option for anyone looking to make a career change. |
ASSOCIATIONS
Address: 8 Dorset Road, Talbot Woods
City: Bournemouth
County: Dorset
Postcode: BH4 9LB
Tel: +44 1202 76963
Email: secretary@adc-uk.info
Website: www.adc-uk.info
EXHIBITORS AT SEAWORK
| 2024 DATES | 2025 DATES | 2026 DATES |
|---|---|---|
Tuesday 11 June 2024 Wednesday 12 June 2024 Thursday 13 June 2024 |
Tuesday 10 June 2025 Wednesday 11 June 2025 Thursday 12 June 2025 |
Tuesday 09 June 2026 Wednesday 10 June 2026 Thursday 11 June 2026 |