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Biological Oceanography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Biological Oceanography information

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$31K

$42.1K

$56K

How much do biological oceanography jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for biological oceanography 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Biological Oceanography position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Biological Oceanography, you need a strong background in marine biology, ecology, and chemistry, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a master's or Ph.D. in oceanography or a related field. Proficiency with specialized software for data analysis (like R or MATLAB), laboratory techniques, and oceanographic field equipment (such as CTDs or plankton nets) is often required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills are essential to interpreting findings and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These abilities are critical for successfully conducting research, publishing results, and informing environmental policy or conservation efforts.

What does a typical workday look like for a Biological Oceanographer?

A typical workday for a Biological Oceanographer can vary depending on the project phase but often involves a mix of laboratory analysis, data processing, and report writing when on land. During fieldwork, days may start early and include collecting water or biological samples from research vessels, deploying sensors, and monitoring marine life in various oceanic conditions. Collaboration is common, as you'll work closely with other scientists, technicians, and sometimes policy makers to interpret data and share findings. Flexibility and adaptability are important since research priorities can shift due to weather, funding, or emerging discoveries. This dynamic environment provides the opportunity to contribute meaningful insights into ocean ecosystems and to advance within academic, governmental, or private research organizations.

How much do biological oceanographers make?

Biological oceanographers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with advanced degrees, research experience, and positions in government agencies or private industry, often involving fieldwork and laboratory analysis.

What does a biological oceanographer do?

A biological oceanographer studies marine organisms and their interactions within ocean ecosystems, often analyzing biological processes, populations, and biodiversity. They use tools like sampling equipment and laboratory analysis to understand how environmental factors affect marine life, contributing to conservation and resource management. The role typically requires a background in biology, oceanography, or related fields, and fieldwork may involve working in marine environments for extended periods.

What is a Biological Oceanography job?

A Biological Oceanography job involves studying marine organisms, their interactions with the environment, and how they respond to changes in ocean conditions. Professionals in this field conduct research on topics like ocean ecosystems, plankton dynamics, and the impact of climate change on marine life. They often work in academia, government agencies, or environmental organizations, collecting and analyzing data from ocean expeditions, laboratory experiments, and computer models.

What jobs can you do with an oceanography degree?

A degree in biological oceanography can lead to careers such as marine biologist, research scientist, environmental consultant, or marine policy analyst. These roles often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and laboratory work, and may require knowledge of marine ecosystems, sampling techniques, and relevant software tools.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

In biological oceanography, roles such as marine biologist, oceanographer, or research scientist can earn over $100,000 annually, especially with advanced degrees and experience. Positions in research institutions, government agencies, or private industry that involve leadership, specialized skills, or extensive fieldwork tend to have higher salaries.
More about Biological Oceanography jobs
What cities are hiring for Biological Oceanography jobs? Cities with the most Biological Oceanography job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Biological Oceanography jobs? The most popular types of Biological Oceanography jobs are:
What states have the most Biological Oceanography jobs? States with the most job openings for Biological Oceanography jobs include:
Infographic showing various Biological Oceanography job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,105 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Ocean Resiliency Project Leader (Natural Resource Specialist 3)

Ocean Resiliency Project Leader (Natural Resource Specialist 3)

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

Newport, RI โ€ข On-site, Remote

$5.4K - $8.3K/mo

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Initial Posting Date:

07/07/2026

Application Deadline:

07/21/2026

Agency:

Department of Fish and Wildlife

Salary Range:

$5,458 - $8,352

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Ocean Resiliency Project Leader (Natural Resource Specialist 3)

Job Description:

Help the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife fulfill its mission: To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.

We are hiring for one full-time, permanent position located in Newport, Oregon.

What you will do:

In this position you will lead and support ocean resiliency, especially as it relates to fisheries and ecosystem health. Duties include analysis and communication of ocean conditions and the convening and activities of Oregon's Ocean Acidification and Hypoxia Coordination (OAH) Council and Co-Chairs (ODFW and OSU). This includes preparing and drafting technical reports, action plans, and policy documents as relevant to ocean resiliency and to meet Senate Bill 1039 mandate goals.

This position may require use of a state issued credit card (SPOTS), for work related purchases.

For a full review of the position details, duties, and working conditions, please review the position description located here.

Clearly describe how you meet the desired attributes in your application materials. We cannot accept additional application materials after the application deadline. These materials determine whether you move forward in the selection process and help establish your starting salary. Be sure your work and education history is accurate, thorough, and fully reflects your skills and experience, even if they do not seem directly related to the position. Click here to learn more aboutEqual Pay Analysis and What You Need to Know to Get the Job

What we are looking for:

Minimum Qualifications:

In order to be considered, applicants must mee tone of the following options:

  • Option 1: Six years of biological/ecological/oceanographic experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or marine program that included one year at a technical or professional level performing activities in a natural resource program such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities

  • Option 2: Three years of biological/ecological/oceanographic experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or marine program that included one year at a technical or professional level performing activities in a natural resource program such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities,anda Bachelor's degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science, Marine Biology, Marine Ecology, Biological Oceanography, Marine Fisheries Management/Science, or a closely-related Bachelor's degree with at least 45 quarter (30 semester) hours of biological/ecological/oceanographic coursework;

  • Option 3: Two years of biological/ecological/oceanographic experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or marine program that included one year at a technical or professional level performing activities in a natural resource program such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities, and a Master's degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science, Marine Biology, Marine Ecology, Biological Oceanography, Marine Fisheries Management/Science, or a closely-related Master's degree in biological/ecological/oceanographic sciences;

  • Option 4: One year of biological/ecological/oceanographic experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or marine program at a technical or professional level performing activities in a natural resource program such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities, and A Doctorate degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science, Marine Biology, Marine Ecology, Biological Oceanography, Marine Fisheries Management/Science, or a closely-relatedDoctorate degree in biological/ecological sciences.

Note: Applicants who have obtained a Master's degree or Doctorate that included work experience from an internship, work/study, thesis, or similar program may list this experience in their application to receive credit for the work experience. The Master's degree/Doctorate and applicable work experience will be considered separately, and both the education and applicable experience may count toward minimum qualifications.

Desired Attributes:

  • Preference may be given to candidates with experience working in oceanography, marine ecology, fisheries, or marine policy

  • Skill in critical thinking and analysis and moderate analytical skills

  • Ability to adapt to changes in a dynamic political and management environment

  • Ability to adapt and modify workload priorities on sometimes a daily basis

  • Effective communication is a must, to work well with internal and external partners in collaborative activities

  • Requires a solid foundation in natural sciences, preferably including coursework and/or work experience in both oceanography and biology/ecology, as well as demonstrated skills in scientific writing (both for technical and lay audiences) and database management

Application Details and Instructions

  • The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

  • The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%

  • This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified people to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill other vacancies as they occur

  • State of Oregon Employees, must apply through their employee Workday account.

  • Please save a copy of this job announcement for reference, as it is not available for you to view after the announcement deadline

  • First time applying to the State of Oregon? Consider utilizing a WorkSource Oregon Resource event! You can also view this video or this knowledge article for assistance.

  • Reasonable accommodation for interviews will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities

  • The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. After you submit your application, be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans' preference immediately following your submittal. These questions are necessary to complete the application process

  • If you are experiencing difficulty applying for this position or have questions, please call 503.947.6051 and ask to speak to a recruiter

BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM

ODFW is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce as we strive to represent and better serve our neighboring communities. Our most important asset is our employees, and each person brings unique, different, and important contributions to the workplace and community we serve. With Oregon's changing demographics, a workforce that reflects this change will make us stronger and create an opportunity for better decision making.

To learn more about the agency and the work we do, view the following video at https://myodfw.com/about

If you enjoy the outdoors, Oregon is the place for you. We have glaciated mountain peaks to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west and the massive Columbia River Gorge to the north. You can fish 365 days a year, and there is hunting for big game, waterfowl, and game birds. The Oregon coast attracts thousands of people who clam, crab and fish in the ocean for halibut, salmon, and tuna. The outdoor opportunities are endless when it comes to fish and wildlife in Oregon! Oregon is known for their vineyards, breweries, and adventures for the whole family to enjoy. To learn more about the department, the work we do, and see our beautiful state, view the following video at https://youtu.be/8CjDPiPMGAk

Additional benefits include:

  • 11 paid holidays a year and a competitive benefits package

  • Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon

Additional Details:

  • The employee in this position will be represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and will be subject to allterms and conditionsof the collective bargaining agreement. Pay and benefits on all job listings may change without notice.

  • Finalistsare subject to both acriminal history and motor vehicles check. Driving is required for this position. Adverse background and/or driving information may disqualify you from further consideration.

  • Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the U.S. Department Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODFW participates in E-Verify. ODFW is not able to support VISA sponsorships.

  • Eligible veterans who meet the qualifications will be given veterans' preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

  • Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the U.S. Department Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODFW participates in E-Verify. ODFW is not able to support VISA sponsorships
  • Veterans' and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

Helpful Links & Resources

How to Set Job Alerts | Workday Applicant FAQ | Oregon Job Opportunities Webpage | Classification and Compensation |Ready to Relocate to Oregon | Carpool Matching Tool: Get There Oregon

More information about our agency can be found on our social media accounts: Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and at myodfw.comand http://www.dfw.state.or.us/

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer