Jobs with LDS.....

[NorCalDawg]

I'm currently OW certified, but I was recently considering trying to get up to the divemaster level... in hopes of maybe working at a LDS while i'm in college. Is this worth my time? Or is it going to be too time consuming and cost prohibitive to me to be a viable part time job?

 

[cowjazz]

It depends on your LDS, and what kind of time you have to dedicate to it.

My LDS has been known to hire folks who have entered their DM program, and has them working in the store while they work on completing their training. Some were hired as they were working on the rescue course, and were kept on through their DM training. I think it really depends on your LDS, and your relationship with them.

With that said, I have had a few friends that obtained their DM, and then did not have enough time in their busy lives to actually be a DM. They have the card, but not really the experience of being a DM. Giving up their weekends to assist with classes was just too much. They also seemed to realize that diving was a hobby they loved, and some of that love faded when it became a job.

 

[The Kraken]

DawgDiver,

I'm not trying to cast a pall upon your desires, but always keep the law of supply and demand in the back of your mind.

The LDS can create many more DM's than it requires, therefore it can set the price at which it wishes to pay, if they pay at all, the DM.

The same goes with instructor ratings.

The LDS will be quite willing to get you through the process and take your money, but then leave you high and dry (pardon the double entendre) when it comes time to make some money or teach some classes.

the K

 

[jpcpat]

If you want to be a DM because you like doing what a DM does, go for it. If you're only in it for a job, think it over. DMs and Instructors don't make a great living. Still, ask your LDS, you never know.

 

[letterboy]

I started working at my LDS before I got my Dive Con rating, got paid minimum wage. Wasn't there for the money but rather the experience of working in a shop. . .