All over the world, along just about every stretch of navigable waterway, communities rely on marinas for safe and secure boat berthing. Have you ever stopped to think about what it takes to construct and maintain these often complicated structures, in which so much of their infrastructure is hidden below the surface? If you are hoping to enjoy a career as a professional diver and you want a rewarding job that isn’t too awfully dirty or dangerous, then marina construction and maintenance could be an excellent one for you. Let’s take a closer look.
About Marinas and Ports
Marinas come in different shapes and sizes, from small community berthing areas in sleepy little seaside towns, to massive deep water ports where cruise ships, tankers, and container ships tie up. Most rely on deep pilings with a series of floating docks in different configurations; these floating docks have moving parts and need to be inspected and maintained regularly.
Most marinas and ports include wharves, long narrow structures with stable platforms on top, and many have refueling areas, along with boat ramps. Some are simply places to park a boat; others have extensive topside amenities such as restaurants and shops, which are often perched atop pilings themselves.
Beneath the water, pipes and pilings, pontoons, and other mechanisms must be kept free of debris and in good working order. If they are damaged in a collision or as the result of a storm, they’ve got to be repaired.
Working in Marina and Port Construction and Maintenance
Divers working in this interesting and busy field need to have a variety of skills. Carpentry, underwater welding, machine and mechanical knowledge, and even plumbing knowledge can be a big plus for divers hoping to move into this career. Many start out as recreational divers and simply take specialized courses in order to qualify for underwater jobs; commercial diving schools offer a variety of courses designed to propel you to success in just a few short months.
Some of the largest ports and marinas keep divers on staff. Staff divers usually provide additional marina functions; cleaning boats, working in customer service, and maintaining topside facilities are some day to day tasks commonly encountered. These divers are also kept on call so they can respond in the event of an emergency.
Smaller marinas sometimes employ local divers on a task-based basis; others use the services of a commercial diving company. If you plan to work for a commercial diving company, then you’ll probably find yourself traveling to a variety of places around the nation or even around the world for work on marina projects and more. Most construction projects, particularly large ones, are awarded to marine construction companies that employ divers and other professionals with a wide range of skillsets. Using the latest technology, these construction companies build new marinas and ports, and refurbish older ones.
The most successful commercial divers are those who have invested the most in their skills. A well-rounded skillset and the ability to be an underwater Jack (or Jill) of all trades is definitely an asset for anyone hoping to gain employment with a marina or port. Security clearances may be required in some cases; in others a simple background check will suffice. You’ll meet interesting people and enjoy working on the water; if you’re in good physical condition and have a strong work ethic this could be an excellent career.