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Biological Oceanographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OceanX

Postdoctoral Associate

New York, NY · On-site +1

OceanX is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate in a field related to marine biology, oceanography, molecular ecology, bioinformatics, or a closely related discipline. This position combines laboratory ...

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Biological Oceanographer information

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$31K

$42.1K

$56K

How much do biological oceanographer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for biological oceanographer in the United States is $42,105.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $46,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Biological Oceanographer vs Marine Biologist?

AspectBiological OceanographerMarine Biologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Science, Oceanography, or related fields; often requires research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Marine Biology, Biology, or related fields; research experience beneficial
Work EnvironmentResearch vessels, oceanographic labs, field expeditions at seaAquariums, research labs, field studies in coastal or marine environments
Industry UsagePrimarily in oceanographic research institutions, government agencies, universitiesUniversities, research institutions, conservation organizations, aquariums

While both roles study marine life, Biological Oceanographers focus on large-scale ocean processes and ecosystems, often working at sea and in oceanographic labs. Marine Biologists typically study specific marine species or habitats, often in controlled environments or coastal areas. The choice depends on whether you prefer large-scale ocean research or species-specific studies.

What are some common challenges biological oceanographers face when conducting field research?

Biological Oceanographers often encounter challenges related to unpredictable weather, logistical complexities of working at sea, and maintaining sensitive scientific equipment in harsh marine environments. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and adhering to strict safety protocols can also add layers of complexity to fieldwork. Additionally, collecting high-quality data in remote or deep-sea locations can be physically demanding and requires adaptability, problem-solving skills, and effective communication with fellow researchers and crew.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biological oceanographer?

To thrive as a Biological Oceanographer, you need a strong background in marine biology, ecology, and oceanography, typically supported by at least a master's degree in a related field. Experience with laboratory and field research techniques, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or R), and familiarity with remote sensing tools are essential. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with research teams and sharing findings. These skills and qualifications are crucial for conducting rigorous research, interpreting complex data, and informing conservation and resource management decisions.

What does a biological oceanographer do?

A Biological Oceanographer studies the interactions between marine organisms and their environment. They investigate how oceanic processes such as currents, temperature, and chemistry affect the distribution and behavior of marine life. Their research helps us understand the health of marine ecosystems, the impact of human activities, and contributes to conservation efforts. Biological Oceanographers often work in the field collecting samples, in laboratories analyzing data, and may collaborate with other scientists to address complex ecological questions.
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What cities are hiring for Biological Oceanographer jobs? Cities with the most Biological Oceanographer job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Biological Oceanographer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Biological Oceanographer jobs are:
Biological Oceanographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Biological Oceanographer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,105 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Postdoctoral Investigator in Plankton Ecology and Trophic Dynamics

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Woods Hole, MA • On-site

$68K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
A Postdoctoral Investigator (PDI) position is available in the Biology Department at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) to study environmental impacts on plankton food webs and trophic dynamics in the Northwest Atlantic ocean ecosystem. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary research program focused on understanding how physical oceanographic variability influences plankton communities and the transfer of energy to higher trophic levels, including forage fish, marine mammals, and endangered North Atlantic right whales. The projects integrate long-term observations, ocean observing systems, statistical analyses, and ecosystem modeling to improve understanding and prediction of ecosystem variability across seasonal to decadal time scales.
Job Description
Responsibilities
The PDI will contribute to several ongoing projects examining multi-trophic ecosystem variability in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean. Responsibilities may include:
  • Analysis and synthesis of long-term plankton and oceanographic datasets from observational programs and model outputs;
  • Development of statistical and machine-learning approaches (e.g., GAMs, Random Forests, synchrony analyses);
  • Investigation of plankton population dynamics and trophic transfer;
  • Participation in coupled physical-biological modeling and connectivity analyses;
  • Preparation of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations;
  • Contributing to proposal development and collaborative research initiatives involving federal agencies, regional research programs, and academic partners.

The position provides opportunities to work with a broad interdisciplinary network of collaborators involved in ecosystem observation and assessment, biological-physical interactions, and ecosystem forecasting across the Northwest Atlantic ecosystem.
Qualifications
Applicants should have:
  • A Ph.D. in biological oceanography, marine ecology, oceanography, ecology, environmental science, or a related field;
  • Experience working on plankton ecology and pelagic ecosystem dynamics (preferred);
  • Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with preference for experience in coupled physical-biological modeling, statistical analyses, and/or machine-learning approaches; Experience working with ecological or oceanographic datasets is preferred;
  • Proficiency in scientific programming and data analysis (e.g., R, Python, MATLAB);
  • A demonstrated record of peer-reviewed scientific publication; and
  • The ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary collaborative environments.

Appointment
This is a two-year position based in the Biology Department at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, with the expectation that the successful candidate will work on site. Continuation into the second year is contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.
Review of applications will begin on July 15, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. The tentative start date is September 1, 2026.
Application Materials
Applicants should submit: 1) A cover letter describing research interests and relevant experience; 2) Curriculum vitae; and 3) Contact information for three references.
Interested candidates should contact Dr. Rubao Ji (rji@whoi.edu) for additional information. Applications should be submitted through the WHOI Careers website: https://careers.whoi.edu.
Additional Job Requirements
Additional Job Requirements
Salary Range: $68,381-$75,498
The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package.
WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.
EEO Statement
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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