Working as an SSI Instructor
Why SSI? – A training organization that lets you work well
You have chosen SSI – an association that is one of the largest in the world and has clearly positioned itself in recent years with a well thought-out system and strong digital tools.
SSI was one of the first training associations to consistently focus on digital content – and this head start is paying off. The system is clearly structured, the platform works reliably and you have exactly the tools you need as an instructor.
A big advantage: as an active diving professional, SSI gives you access to all the courses you are allowed to teach – and often even more. So you can prepare yourself at any time, even for special courses that you would like to do later. The materials are available in many languages and can be used immediately.
The price structure also speaks for itself: SSI rewards commitment. Those who regularly give courses not only remain active, but also benefit financially. The system is structured in such a way that active work pays off – without any hidden costs or artificial barriers.
Practical tip: The download area
Take a look at your MySSI profile at:
Marketing & Service → Toolbox → Download area
There you will find:
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Presentations and manuals for almost all courses
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Examination documents in many languages
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Graphics, forms, worksheets, videos
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Marketing material for your courses
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And much more to make your everyday life as a diving instructor easier
A real treasure – and often underestimated. Familiarize yourself with it, you will use it regularly!
Preparation for the exam
An interactive whiteboard on Mural is available to help you prepare for the “SSI Educational System” part of the exam. It helps you to understand the structure and philosophy of SSI – and visually connects content with your personal learning style.
Being a diving instructor – between dream job and reality
You are ready. Now the part where the idea becomes a profession begins. And that’s great. But: it’s worth taking an honest look at what it means to be a diving professional.
Because being a diving instructor is not just “diving and vacation”. It’s a real profession – with real demands.
You are:
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Trainer and educator
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Safety manager under water
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Contact for people with anxiety, euphoria, questions or misunderstandings
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Organizer, technology freak, sometimes cleaner, entertainer and much more
And yes – you also dive.
But you dive differently. You dive to get others through their course safely and well. Sometimes you dive in difficult conditions. Sometimes without taking your own interests into account or without much enjoyment – it’s a working day. In return, you get something else: the glow in the eyes of someone who has just taken their first breaths underwater.
As excited as you are about the new job, as enthisiastic as you may be, it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself into:
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Pay is low in many countries.
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Many bases live from voluntary or low-cost work.
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There are permanent, well-paid jobs – but they are rare.
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Legal conditions (visas, work permits, insurance) are often complicated.
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The job is physically demanding and mentally challenging – especially during peak season.
And then there’s the emotional part: you sell experiences. You are part of a special moment in the lives of others. And that’s wonderful – but also challenging. Sometimes work feels like animation. Sometimes it’s too much. Sometimes you forget to enjoy time in the water yourself.
And yet: there is hardly anything that can compare.
You work in special places, get to know special people – and if you are good at what you do, you can really make a difference. Inspire people. Pave the way. Change lives. Even your own.
Being a diving instructor is not an easy job. But it is an honest, challenging and real one – and sometimes simply the best in the world.
