Diving in at the deep end
From European waterways to reefs off Egypt and Thailand, dive instructor Perry Roos (above) has explored them all.
EDUCATION
THE first step to becoming a dive instructor is to learn to scuba dive. Many organisations offer accredited courses which can be completed over several days and include practical experience in the open ocean. The certifications ensure divers adhere to high levels of safety. Advanced diver courses must be completed before the option to sit for a dive instructor exam. Regular dives with instructors or friends are recommended to keep skills up.
MORE TRAINING
DIVE schools offer a variety of courses to continue diver education and training. Tourism and recreation dive instructors sometimes find work with commercial and law enforcement agencies. They may also work for professional, scientific or technical businesses. Dive instructors who decide to start their own businesses could benefit from gaining qualifications in business and people management.
PAY SCALE
A DIVE instructor’s salary usually starts at $36,000 and can go as high as $65,000. Average pay is $50,000 but varies according to level of skill, experience and where instructors are employed.
WHO TO CONTACT
THE Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) provides information on certification and education, safety-related information and local environmental knowledge. More at padi.com