Head Diving Instructor & Marine Life Specialist

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Disability insurance

Annual leave

Professional development

Equipment access

Discounted dive trips

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Diving Instructor & Marine Life Specialist to lead a team of dive instructors in East London. You will develop and deliver a range of PADI/SSI courses, guide dives, and ensure top-quality guest experiences with strong safety practices.

The role emphasizes marine biodiversity education, conservation initiatives, and program development at a renowned coastal center in the Eastern Cape. A seasoned diving professional with MSDT and DMFA credentials is ideal.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional diving instruction experience with leadership roles.
• Current PADI/SSI Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) or higher.
• DMFA or equivalent Emergency Response instructor certification.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to train and manage dive instructors and guide student divers.

Responsibilities

• Lead and train a team of certified dive instructors.
• Develop and deliver PADI/SSI courses from Open Water to Divemaster.
• Conduct guided dives and snorkeling excursions with insightful commentary.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and maintain safety records.
• Manage dive equipment: maintenance, servicing, and inventory control.
• Educate guests on local marine biodiversity and conservation efforts.
• Contribute to marine conservation programs and research initiatives.
• Handle guest inquiries, bookings, and post-dive support.
• Maintain records of student progress and certifications.
• Collaborate with management on program development and operations.

Skills

Team leadership

Course delivery

Safety procedures

Equipment maintenance

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned marine adventure and education center located in the vibrant coastal city of East London , is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head Diving Instructor & Marine Life Specialist . This pivotal role involves leading a team of dive instructors, developing and delivering exceptional diving courses, and sharing expertise on local marine ecosystems. The ideal candidate will possess a passion for underwater exploration, a strong commitment to safety, and an engaging teaching style. You will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of training and guest experience, while also contributing to the center's marine conservation initiatives. This position is perfect for a seasoned diving professional who thrives in a hands-on environment and wishes to make a significant contribution to marine education and tourism in the Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and train a team of certified dive instructors to ensure high-quality instruction and service.
• Develop, update, and deliver a comprehensive range of PADI/SSI accredited diving courses, from Open Water to Divemaster.
• Conduct guided dives and snorkeling excursions, providing insightful commentary on marine life and local underwater topography.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety protocols and dive procedures, maintaining an impeccable safety record.
• Manage dive equipment, including regular maintenance, servicing, and inventory control.
• Educate guests and students about local marine biodiversity, conservation efforts, and responsible diving practices.
• Assist in the development and implementation of marine conservation programs and research initiatives.
• Handle customer inquiries, bookings, and provide excellent pre- and post-dive support.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress, certifications, and dive logs.
• Collaborate with management on operational improvements, marketing strategies, and new program development.

Requirements

• Current and valid PADI/SSI Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) or higher certification is essential.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional diving instruction experience, with a proven track record of leading dive teams.
• In-depth knowledge of local marine life, ecosystems, and conservation challenges in the Eastern Cape region.
• Certification as a Dive Medicine First Aid (DMFA) or equivalent Emergency Response instructor.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Proficiency in equipment maintenance and repair.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays, to meet operational demands.
• A passion for marine conservation and educating others about the underwater world.
• First Aid and CPR certifications up-to-date.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive annual salary based on experience and qualifications.
• This role comes with comprehensive medical aid coverage and disability insurance.
• You will be entitled to generous annual leave and personal days off.
• Opportunities for further professional development, including specialty instructor certifications, are provided.
• Access to dive equipment and dive trips at discounted rates is available.
• A stimulating work environment in a stunning coastal location in East London awaits the successful candidate.