Commercial Diver / Tender

Ballard Marine Construction is a specialty marine and underwater contractor based in Washougal, WA, with regional offices and projects throughout North America. We offer a unique culture of true excellence, where every team member—from interns to senior leaders—is held accountable and works toward common goals. If you thrive in a driven, competitive, and respectful environment, you might be the right fit for our team.

About the Role

The Commercial Diver / Tender’s primary responsibility is to support construction activities by performing work as directed by the Project Manager / Dive Supervisor.

Ideal Candidate Attributes

• Grit and Resiliency: We tackle challenges others won’t and never give up.
• Comradery and Inspirational: We work as a hard-working, likeminded team, celebrating wins and fostering energy.
• Driven and Competitive: We love to win and learn from losses—failure is not an option.
• Trustworthy and Respectful: We value honesty, authenticity, and constructive conflict without drama or politics.
• Ownership and Accountability: We take responsibility, ask “what could I have done differently,” and strive to improve.

Qualifications

• Diploma from an ADCE-compliant commercial dive school.
• Current ADCI certification for the type of diving being performed.
• Current ADCI-compliant dive physical.
• Current First Aid, CPR, AED, and Oxygen Administration certifications.
• OSHA 10-Hour Construction certification.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

Experience

• 1+ years of experience in commercial diving operations.
• Heavy equipment operation (if qualified).

Skills

• Ability to read and follow dive tables (air and nitrox), altitude tables, and treatment tables.
• Proficiency in checking and maintaining diving equipment (helmets, masks, air tanks, harnesses, gauges).
• Good hand-eye coordination and adequate hearing to receive safety warnings.
• Clear communication with surface workers and divers while underwater or running a dive station.
• Underwater cutting and welding of steel using specialized equipment.
• Knowledge of construction methods, materials, and tools for marine structures.
• Ability to work at heights up to 50’ or more and in confined/enclosed spaces.
• Comfort wearing PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, safety-toed boots) and performing physical tasks (climbing, lifting, stooping).
• Ability to operate heavy equipment, including reaching controls and maintaining visibility.
• Understanding of oral and written instructions; mental stability in fast-paced environments.
• Commitment to safety culture and Job Hazard Analysis for every task.
• Willingness to travel and work away from home for extended periods.
• Positive attitude, strong communication, and eagerness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Equipment set-up and breakdown.
• Equipment load-out and maintenance.
• Jetting/dredging and dive tending.
• Rack box operation and in-water work assignments.
• Decompression chamber operations.
• Inspection with video documentation.
• Burning/welding (wet or dry) and hand/power tool operation.
• Pneumatic/hydraulic and percussion tool operation (wet or dry).
• Crane rigging and signaling (wet or dry).
• Placing flags/barricades and equipment spotting.
• Salvage or environmental operations.
• Additional duties as directed.

Physical Demands / Working Environment

• Move heavy objects (94+ lbs.) short distances (≤20’).
• Move lighter objects (20’).
• Work long shifts with non-standard break times.
• Sit or stand for extended periods.
• Work in field environments with varying weather, surfaces, and conditions.
• Exposure to bloodborne pathogens, chemicals, and cleaners.

Pay

Hourly rates range from $25 to $45 per hour, commensurate with experience.