If you are looking for part-time employment, consider a career as a scuba instructor. A diving instructor can make enough to pay for your travels and hobbies. Many middle-aged scuba instructors are retired teachers, law enforcement officers, and military veterans. Many of them enjoy a comfortable pension and a fulfilling second life. Continue reading to find out more about the requirements for becoming a scuba diver instructor.
Qualifications to become an instructor in scuba diving
First, you need to take a scuba instructor course. The course covers the basics of scuba equipment as well as how to breathe underwater. You'll also learn about safety and theory of diving. You'll learn about these topics in a manual and through eLearning. A confined water practice will be completed, usually in the pool. You will then have to complete four open water dives, which will test your skills and knowledge at a maximum depth of 18 meters.
Scuba instructors are also called "travelers" as they often travel. They are considered leaders in the industry and certifying agencies support their instructors. Instructor training is more than just teaching how to dive. It also teaches how to care for others. Instructors learn how to provide professional sales skills as well as basic medical skills. Instructors in scuba diving have access to discounted gear and parts so that they can buy the most recent kits and replacement parts for half the retail price.
Salary of 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. Because scuba instructors tend to live abroad, their take-home pay is higher than the average. But, they may need to relocate often in order to find stable work.
You will be teaching others how to dive as well as leading dive trips. You'll find this job challenging and rewarding if you are interested. To attract clients, it's important to be a good communicator and to keep a positive outlook. 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 must have diverse skills and work in a highly competitive environment. It is not surprising then that the demand for instructors in scuba diving far exceeds the supply. Instructors may need to balance work and family life, transport heavy tanks and deal with high-stress environments.
There are many factors that affect the work environment of scuba instructors, depending on where they work. Instructors who work at dive shops may be required to work 40 hours per week in order to teach two classes. This is averaging 60 hours per weekly. An instructor at a resort might work six days per week, or seven during peak tourist season. It is crucial to stay on top of new trends and techniques for any job.
Career outlook for a scuba instructor
Many benefits come with scuba diving. A career as a scuba diver instructor provides many of these benefits. This job is for people who love being in the water, but don't like dealing with violence or people. Scuba instructors are able to develop as leaders and individuals in addition to the physical benefits. Scuba instructors are part of a group and will be surrounded with mentors and like-minded people. You will have to lift heavy objects, train and certify students quickly, and deal with stress.
Scuba instructors may not have typical job duties, but they do expect to work more than forty hours a week, sometimes teaching as many as two classes. During busy times, some instructors may work seven days each week. Dive resort instructors can expect to work 60 hours per week. The average scuba instructor works 40 hours per week, and usually teaches two classes per week.