Dive Officer

## Dive Officer

JOB SUMMARY

The Dive Officer (DO) is a member of the Dive Operations (Dive Ops) team and reports to the Director of Marine Operations (DOMO). Dive Ops works to implement dive safety procedures and guidelines per the Moody Gardens (MG) Dive Safety Manual (DSM) to ensure the safe conduct of dive operations at the facility and in the field. A DO possesses a broad diving knowledge and skill base to include diving technology and aquarium and research diving techniques spanning the reach of the Moody Gardens Dive Program (MGDP). The DO is qualified to perform all aspects of the MGDP operation and take direction from the DOMO and Dive Safety Officer (DSO) to conduct and supervise all staff, volunteer, intern and VIP diving operations at Moody Gardens. Performs other duties as assigned.

POSITION AUTHORITY

The incumbent is authorized to take reasonable action necessary to carry out assigned duties and responsibilities, provided such action is consistent with position guidelines as outlined below.

POSITION GUIDELINES

Position guidelines include, but are not limited to, supporting the DOMO in the management and supervision of dive program operations, diver training, maintenance of dive program records and recordkeeping, equipment compliance, recommending company and department policies and procedures and all supervisory directives. The incumbent is expected to exercise sound, reasonable judgment and initiative, and give high priority to accuracy and details in the performance of job responsibilities.

## Qualifications

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Responsible for the smooth daily operation of the LSEO department dive operations, including but not limited to supervising and coordinating staff and volunteer divers, serving in various roles for dives, responding to emergency situations, training, and administrative duties
• Under the direction of the DSO and DOMO, responsible for timely inspection, maintenance, and repair of all dive and dive related equipment in accordance to the dive safety manual and/or manufacturer’s recommendations
• Maintain accurate dive program records for maintenance and repair, divers, equipment, and inventory
• Keep DSO, Curators and staff informed of staff issues and behaviors in addition to animal health issues and behaviors observed in the course of dive operations
• Maintain an effective approach to promoting a strong safety culture for dive operations

POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinate the daily MGDP dive operations focusing on diver training, safety protocol development and refinement, and operational efficiency
• Inspect and repair diving equipment
• Assist with MGDP diver training, dive record maintenance, and DSM compliance
• Conduct routine audits of dive program records
• Conduct MGDP diver emergency response drills
• Collaborate with diving staff on daily preventative and corrective maintenance of all water-containing infrastructures
• Interface effectively with other departments to maintain the highest quality standards
• Interact with guests, media, and public, etc., on behalf of the MGDP
• Take an active leadership role in the Moody Gardens’ exhibit maintenance.
• Take an active leadership role in public programming dive presentation development, and participate in dive presentations and special events as needed
• Travel internationally, as needed, to support MGDP expeditions
• Work respectfully with a diverse team of staff, students, and volunteer divers.
• Follow MG diving and general safety regulations.
• Conduct other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Baccalaureate degree
• Possess current leadership-level certification from an internationally recognized agency
• Have experience in aquarium-related diving
• Present a copy of dive training certifications, certificates, and diving log.
• Valid drivers license

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Possess strong interpersonal and organizational skills and a proactive approach to job responsibilities
• Possess comfort providing instruction, direction, and corrective feedback to a range of program participants, including senior LSEO staff, external affiliates, partners, students, and volunteers.
• Possess flexibility, innovation, decisiveness, honesty, and discretion
• Be self-motivated and similarly able to take direction.
• Be able to adapt to evolving needs of the MGDP
• Current DAN DFA Pro (or equivalent) training required, preference for current instructors
• Ability to pass AAUS-compliant dive physical and swim test
• Possess a working knowledge of diving theory, safe diving practices, and expertise in dive equipment and technology appropriate to the scope of the MGDP
• Possess knowledge of procedures, hazards, and safety precautions of aquarium diving
• Have proficiency with Microsoft Office, Apple, and Google Applications software
• Effectively express ideas verbally and actively listen when conversing
• Express ideas clearly and concisely when writing letters, reports, and other documents
• Possess experience preparing dive-specific training presentations
• Be proficient in the safe use of hand tools and shop equipment
• Be able to train others on equipment operation and maintenance needs
• Be able to work efficiently and communicate with staff, cross-functional teams, guests, and external partners from different backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
• Possess a willingness to bring new ideas, create inventive solutions and find efficiencies to transform dive program processes
• Be able to work collaboratively towards mutual goals on a team engaged in a culture that promotes trust, respect, and accountability
• Possess the flexibility to work on weekends and holidays routinely
• Be able to read and interpret documents such as safety procedures, operating manuals, and maintenance instructions
• Be able to write routine reports and correspondence.