How to Get a Job in the Scuba Diving Industry in Western Australia?

If you’ve ever dreamed of a career in diving, Western Australia offers incredible opportunities. From the stunning Ningaloo Reef to the wrecks of Rottnest Island, there are plenty of reasons to turn your passion into a profession. But where do you start? What qualifications do you need, and where can you find job opportunities?

Qualifications and Certifications

Firstly, to work in the scuba diving industry you will need certain qualifications. The minimum requirement for most diving-related jobs is a Divemaster certification, which allows you to guide dives and assist instructors. However, if you want to teach diving courses, you’ll need to become a Scuba Instructor through agencies like PADI, SSI, or NAUI.

Additional qualifications can make you more competitive and help with finding employment. Rescue Diver and First Aid training are necessary for safety and emergency response, while specialty certifications, such as deep diving, wreck diving, or nitrox can expand your job opportunities. If you plan to work on dive boats, a boat license or a Coxswain certification may also be necessary.

Job Opportunities in the Industry

The diving industry in WA offers a variety of roles. Many divers start as Divemasters or Instructors, guiding dives or teaching certification courses. There are also opportunities to work in marine research, reef monitoring, and protection projects. Those with photography skills can work as underwater photographers or videographers, capturing marine life and promoting dive tourism.

Beyond in-water roles, dive shops and resorts need staff for customer service, bookings, and equipment sales. If you are more interested in technical work, commercial diving offers jobs in underwater construction, welding, and inspections. Liveaboard expeditions also provide employment for crew members assisting on multi-day diving trips.

Getting Certified

Becoming a professional diver requires training through agencies like PADI, SSI, or NAUI. The Divemaster course usually takes four to six weeks, requiring at least 40 logged dives. The next step, the Instructor Development Course, lasts one to two weeks, followed by the Instructor Examination. If you’re interested in specialty or technical diving, additional courses can take weeks or months, depending on the program.

Training programs are available in many locations across WA, including Perth and  Exmouth. These centers offer courses designed to help you gain professional qualifications and hands-on experience.

Skills and Experience Employers Look For

Beyond diving certifications, employers value strong customer service and communication skills, as most dive jobs involve working with tourists. First aid and rescue training are crucial for ensuring diver safety. If you plan to work on a dive boat or liveaboard, experience with boat handling and equipment maintenance will be an advantage.

Building Experience as a New Diver

If you’re just starting out, there are several ways to build experience. Many dive shops offer internships for aspiring Divemasters, allowing you to work alongside professionals while gaining hands-on knowledge. Taking on work as a dive guide helps develop leadership skills and confidence in leading groups underwater. Assisting instructors before becoming one yourself is another way to build teaching experience. If conservation is your passion, volunteering for marine protection projects provides valuable experience while contributing to ocean conservation.

Networking in the Diving Industry

Networking is key to finding job opportunities in the industry. Attending dive expos, workshops, and training events can help you connect with potential employers. Many jobs are advertised in Facebook groups and online forums dedicated to diving professionals, so staying active on these platforms is beneficial. Visiting local dive shops and resorts in person can also help, as many hire based on recommendations and face-to-face interactions rather than formal applications.

Best Locations for Dive Jobs in WA

Some of the best places to find dive jobs in WA include Ningaloo Reef, where Exmouth and Coral Bay have a high demand for dive guides and instructors. Rottnest Island, near Perth, is another hotspot known for its reef diving opportunities. Busselton and Dunsborough offer positions in dive tourism. Esperance is well known for its dive sites and diverse marine life, making it another promising area for diving careers.

Pros and Cons of Working in the Scuba Diving Industry

Working in the scuba diving industry offers incredible experiences, from working in beautiful locations to meeting people from all over the world. The lifestyle is active and outdoor-focused, making it an appealing career for those who love the ocean.

However, there are challenges. Many jobs are seasonal, meaning work may be scarce during off-seasons. The job can be physically demanding, with long hours in the water. Salaries can also vary, with entry-level positions often paying lower wages. However, perks like free dives, accommodation, and equipment discounts can help offset these costs.

Creating a Strong Resume and Cover Letter

When applying for dive jobs, your resume should highlight your certifications, experience, and any customer service or teaching background. If you have additional skills like underwater photography or multilingual abilities, include them to stand out. Your cover letter should express your passion for diving and explain why you’re a great fit for the role.

Career Progression in the Diving Industry

With experience, there are many opportunities for advancement. Some divers move into managerial roles, overseeing operations at dive centers. Instructor Trainers take on the responsibility of training new dive instructors. Technical diving or cave diving specializations can open doors to advanced exploration roles. If you enjoy travel, working as a dive guide on liveaboard expeditions is a great way to see the world while doing what you love.

Where to Find Job Listings

Job opportunities can be found on dive shop and resort websites, as many post vacancies directly. Scuba job boards such as Divezone, PADI’s job board, and ScubaJobs Worldwide are great resources. Social media and dive forums also may feature job postings, making them essential tools for job seekers.

Salary Expectations in the Diving Industry

Earnings vary depending on experience and location. Divemasters as of 2025 in Perth  typically earn approximately ~$31AUD per hour, with tips often boosting their income. Instructors can expect to earn around ~$33AUD per hour. Specialized roles such as technical diving or liveaboard guiding tend to offer higher salaries. Many positions include perks like accommodation, free diving, and discounted equipment.

Safety Considerations in the Diving Industry

Safety is a top priority for diving professionals. Employers value regular dive medicals, ongoing first aid and rescue training, and proper equipment maintenance. Keeping up with industry safety standards ensures a long and successful career in diving.

Non-Diving Roles in the Industry

If you’re not a professional diver, there are still plenty of opportunities to work in the industry. Roles in equipment sales, maintenance, dive shop administration, marketing, and marine conservation research allow you to be involved in the diving world without being in the water every day.

Final Tips for Getting Your First Diving Job

Gaining experience through internships, being open to working in different locations, and taking extra specialty courses will improve your chances of landing a job. Networking with industry professionals and staying proactive in your job search will also give you an edge. With the right skills and determination, you can turn your love for diving into a rewarding career in Western Australia and beyond.

Written by Cormac Kelly