Description
Perform underwater search, assessment, and recovery of vessels, cargo, and other objects using surface-supplied or scuba gear. Rig and operate lifting systems; conduct cutting, welding, and controlled demolition to clear or refloat wrecks; and patch or stabilize structures. Use sonar, video, and documentation to plan and execute salvage while meeting strict safety and environmental requirements.
- • Communicate with the salvage team topside via hardline communications and line signals.
- • Plan dives with hazard assessments, depth and time limits, and decompression and emergency procedures.
- • Inspect, test, and maintain diving and salvage gear, including helmets, umbilicals, lift bags, and hydraulics.
- • Descend and conduct searches using patterns, sonar, magnets, and cameras to locate targets.
- • Survey and document wreck condition, orientation, and access points with video, photos, and measurements.
- • Clear debris and obstructions from wreck sites using pneumatic, hydraulic, and cutting tools.
- • Cut, burn, or weld to free components or create access, using exothermic and underwater welding equipment.
- • Rig slings, chains, and shackles; attach lift bags or connect crane hooks to prepare heavy lifts.
- • Operate or coordinate cranes, winches, and lift bags to raise, right, or refloat objects.
- • Patch, plug, and install cofferdams over hull breaches; set up dewatering systems to achieve buoyancy.
- • Remove hazardous materials or secure leaking fuels in accordance with environmental protocols.
- • Drill and place charges for controlled underwater demolition when required.
- • Recover aircraft, vehicles, anchors, and cargo; stage and secure items for transport.
- • Perform non-destructive testing to assess structural integrity before lifting.
- • Install, inspect, or remove temporary moorings, anchor lines, and towing bridles.
- • Maintain situational awareness of tides, currents, visibility, and overhead hazards.
- • Keep detailed dive logs, salvage plans, load calculations, and regulatory documentation.
- • Coordinate with the salvage master, vessel owners, insurers, and authorities on-site.
- • Train or supervise divers and tenders in salvage procedures and safety.
- • Conduct search and rescue or body and object recovery in support of emergency operations.
- • Remove navigation hazards and clear waterways to reopen ports or channels.
- • Stand by for rapid-response mobilization and maintain readiness of salvage equipment.
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Supply Chain & Transportation
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
