Consider a career as an instructor in scuba diving if you're looking for part-time work. A diving instructor can make enough to pay for your travels and hobbies. Many middle-aged instructors in scuba are former teachers, law enforcement officers, or military veterans. Many of them are able to enjoy a comfortable retirement and a fulfilling second lifestyle. Read on to learn more about how to become a certified scuba instructor.
Qualifications to become an instructor in scuba diving
First, you need to take a scuba instructor course. You will learn the basics of diving equipment and how you can breathe underwater. It also teaches about diving safety and the theory behind it. These topics are covered both in a book and via eLearning. You'll also need to do a confined swimming practice, often in a pool. Four open water dives will be required to test your knowledge and skills at 18 meters.
Scuba instructors are also called "travelers" as they often travel. Instructors are considered to be leaders in their field and certified agencies support them. Instructor training doesn't just teach you how to dive, but also how to help others. Instructors are also taught basic emergency medical skills and professional sales skills. Scuba instructors have access to a wide range of discounted parts and gear, which allows them to purchase the latest equipment and replacement parts at half-off retail prices.
Salary for a Scuba Instructor
The annual salary for a scuba instructor ranges from $18,000 to $20,000, although it is possible to increase in the future. It's not an expensive salary, but it covers many of the expenses associated with living abroad. The take-home pay for scuba instructors is usually higher than the national average because they live abroad. It is not unusual for them to need to move often to find stable employment.
You will be teaching others how to dive as well as leading dive trips. If you're interested in this career choice, you'll find the job highly demanding and never boring. It's also important to have good communication skills and a positive attitude to attract potential clients. Scuba instructors who have worked in the hospitality industry, for example, should be able to build good relationships with local business owners.
The work environment for a scuba instructor
A scuba instructor's work is not an easy one. Divers are often an expert in all things, so they need to have a wide range of skills and be competitive. It's not surprising, then, that the demand for scuba instructors far outweighs the supply. Instructors may have to manage the demands of teaching while also managing their personal lives, such as hauling heavy tanks or dealing with high stress environments.
There are many factors that affect the work environment of scuba instructors, depending on where they work. For example, a instructor working at a dive center might teach two classes per week for 40 hours. A typical week is 60 hours. A resort-based instructor may work six days a weeks, and even seven days during peak tourist periods. It is crucial to stay on top of new trends and techniques for any job.
Career outlook for a Scuba Instructor
Scuba diving offers many benefits. Being a scuba teacher is one example of this. This job is ideal for those who enjoy being out in the ocean, but do not enjoy dealing with people or being around violence. Scuba instructors have the opportunity to grow and become leaders. Scuba instructors work as part of a community and will be surrounded by like-minded people and mentors. This career is not for everyone. It requires heavy lifting and can be stressful.
While scuba instructors don't have a typical job, they can expect to work more hours than 40 hours per week. Sometimes, they may even teach two classes. Instructors may work seven days per week in busy periods. Instructors who work at dive resorts can expect to work at least 60 hours per week. Generally, scuba instructors work 40 hours a week and usually teach two classes a week.