How to Be Underwater Construction Worker - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 13, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Underwater construction workers play an important role in the construction of offshore structures, such as oil and gas platforms, bridges, pipelines, and other infrastructure. Their responsibilities include the fabrication, installation, and repair of these structures. Because of the extreme environment they work in, underwater construction workers must develop a wide range of specialized skills and knowledge related to safety, diving operations, and welding.

They must be well-versed in the use of specialized tools and equipment, including air compressors, wrenches, and cutting torches. In addition, they must have a thorough understanding of the physics and mathematics that govern underwater operations. The knowledge and skills acquired by underwater construction workers allow them to perform their jobs safely and efficiently, ensuring the successful completion of any project.

Without their expertise, many of the worlds most complex engineering projects would not be possible.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. A high school diploma or equivalent is required to be considered for a career in underwater construction.
Pursue post-secondary education. Consider pursuing a degree in marine engineering, ocean engineering, or another related field. This will help to prepare you for the technical aspects of the job.
Complete an apprenticeship program. Underwater construction is a highly specialized area of construction, so it is important to gain experience through an apprenticeship program. This can include hands-on training with experienced workers in a variety of underwater construction techniques.
Obtain certification. Certification is often required for underwater construction work. Organizations such as the Divers Institute of Technology offer courses in underwater welding, rigging, and other areas to help prepare for certification exams.
Gain experience. Experience is essential for success in the field of underwater construction. Consider volunteering or interning with a construction firm to gain valuable experience while building your resume.

Working as an underwater construction worker requires a particular set of skills and qualifications. First, it is important to have a good understanding of the engineering principles related to underwater construction projects. Having knowledge of the relevant materials and tools will also be beneficial.

Furthermore, a worker should possess the physical strength and stamina required to perform the labor-intensive tasks associated with the job. certification in diving, welding, and other specialized skills is often necessary. Those who are able to demonstrate all of these qualities, as well as a strong work ethic and a commitment to safety, will be best suited for a career as an underwater construction worker.

You may want to check Underwater Acoustic Technician, Underwater Archaeologist, and Underwater Pipeline Inspector for alternative.

Job Description

Operate heavy machinery to build structures such as pipelines and bridges.
Prepare work site by dredging, blasting and removing debris.
Read blueprints and technical drawings to determine structural specifications.
Install foundations, forms and reinforcement for structures.
Install steel, concrete and wood structures.
Weld and cut steel and other metals to construct components.
Test and inspect underwater structures for leaks and defects.
Monitor and adjust equipment settings to ensure safety and accuracy of construction.
Monitor weather conditions and inform supervisor of changes in forecast.
Inspect and maintain tools, equipment, and materials to ensure proper functioning.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Excellent swimming skills
Physical strength and endurance
Knowledge of underwater construction materials and tools
Ability to read blueprints
Ability to work effectively in a team environment
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Good problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
Ability to follow safety regulations and procedures
Good communication skills
Knowledge of welding and cutting techniques
Knowledge of basic marine biology and ecology

One of the most important skills for an underwater construction worker to have is a strong knowledge of engineering principles. Knowledge of how the environment, materials, and engineering processes interact is essential for any successful project. A deep understanding of the properties of water, the physics of the ocean, and the impacts of pressure on different materials is required to properly plan and execute construction projects underwater.

This knowledge is needed in order to ensure safety and accuracy when installing structures, pipelines, and other elements. In addition to engineering principles, underwater construction workers must also have excellent problem-solving skills in order to troubleshoot any issues that may arise during the project. They must also be able to assess risks and analyze data to inform decision making.

Furthermore, strong communication skills are necessary for underwater construction workers to effectively coordinate with other members of the team and communicate with the client. Overall, a strong knowledge of engineering principles, excellent problem-solving skills, and effective communication are all essential skills for an underwater construction worker.

Underwater Plumber, Underwater Videographer, and Underwater Salvage Diver are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What is your experience with underwater construction?
How comfortable are you working in confined spaces?
What safety precautions do you take when working underwater?
Describe a difficult underwater construction project you have completed.
How do you stay organized while working underwater?
What type of diving equipment do you prefer to use?
What techniques do you use to ensure the structural integrity of underwater construction projects?
Describe your experience working with a dive team.
What measures do you take to protect yourself and your team while working underwater?
How do you stay committed to your projects even in challenging underwater conditions?

Common Tools in Industry

Pneumatic Tools. Used to break concrete, cut steel, and drive fasteners. (eg: hammer drill)
Submersible Drills. Used to create holes in the seafloor. (eg: diamond core drill)
Welding Machines. Used to join metal parts together. (eg: underwater arc welding machine)
Dredging Equipment. Used to remove sediment from the seabed. (eg: suction dredge)
Air Compressors. Used to supply air pressure for working tools. (eg: reciprocating compressor)
Underwater Cameras. Used to inspect and survey the construction site. (eg: remote operated vehicle camera)
Cranes and Hoists. Used to lift heavy materials and equipment. (eg: offshore crane)
Cutting Torches. Used to cut through metal surfaces. (eg: plasma torch)
Sonar Equipment. Used to locate objects in the water. (eg: side-scan sonar)
Underwater Robots. Used to perform tasks in hazardous environments. (eg: remotely operated underwater vehicle)

Professional Organizations to Know

The Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI)
The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA)
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
The International Association of Maritime and Underwater Engineers (IAMUE)
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
The Marine Technology Society (MTS)
The Association of Subsea Industries (ASI)
The Society of Underwater Technology (SUT)
The International Association of Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research (IAHR)
The International Salvage Union (ISU)

We also have Underwater Electrician, Underwater Welder, and Underwater Sound Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Diving Supervisor. A diving supervisor is a professional who is responsible for planning, organizing, and supervising all underwater activities. They must also ensure that safety standards are met and maintained.
Commercial Diver. A commercial diver is an individual who dives underwater to perform a variety of tasks related to construction and maintenance. They can be employed by oil and gas companies, civil engineering firms, and other businesses that need underwater services.
Rigging and Lifting. Rigging and lifting are techniques used to move heavy objects underwater. This includes the use of pulleys, cables, slings, and other specialized equipment.
Underwater Welding. Underwater welding is a specialized form of welding that takes place below the surface of the water. Welders must be specially trained and certified to work in this environment.
Underwater Cutting. Underwater cutting is a process used for the removal of metal structures from the seabed or other underwater locations. It is often used in shipbuilding, salvage operations, and other activities that require metal removal underwater.
Salvage Operations. Salvage operations are activities related to the recovery of lost items or materials from underwater locations. This can include retrieving sunken ships or other objects.
Pressure-Proofing. Pressure-proofing is a process that ensures that tools and equipment used underwater are able to withstand the extreme pressures found in the deep sea environment.
Subsea Robotics. Subsea robotics is the use of specialized robots to perform tasks underwater. These robots are often used to inspect pipelines, search for lost items, and assist with salvage operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job of an Underwater Construction Worker?

An Underwater Construction Worker is a specialized construction professional who works underwater to construct, repair, and inspect various marine infrastructure and vessels.

What qualifications are needed to become an Underwater Construction Worker?

To become an Underwater Construction Worker, individuals must possess at least a high school diploma or equivalent and have a valid commercial diver's license. Additionally, many employers require specialized training in underwater welding or other underwater construction techniques.

What are some of the risks associated with underwater construction work?

Underwater construction work can be dangerous due to the potential for hazardous working conditions. These risks include but are not limited to potential entanglement in debris, air or gas poisoning, decompression sickness, hypothermia, and drowning.

What is the salary of an Underwater Construction Worker?

The average salary for an Underwater Construction Worker ranges from $60,000-$80,000 per year depending on experience and region.

What type of equipment is used by Underwater Construction Workers?

Underwater Construction Workers use a variety of specialized equipment including air tanks, wetsuits, respirators, regulators, weights, hoses, clamps, valves, and underwater welding equipment.

Web Resources

(PDF) Underwater construction | Aradhana Singh www.academia.edu
Become an Underwater Welder With the Water Welding Career www.diversacademy.edu
Underwater Welding School - Career & Salary, Welder Wage www.diversinstitute.edu