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Biological Oceanography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Army

Fish Biologist

Rufus, OR · On-site

$74K/yr

... or biological oceanography that included at least 30 semester hours in biological and aquatic science and 15 semester hours in the physical and mathematical sciences. This course work must have ...

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Fish Biologist

Rufus, OR · On-site +1

$74K - $97K/yr

... or biological oceanography that included at least 30 semester hours in biological and aquatic science and 15 semester hours in the physical and mathematical sciences. This course work must have ...

Laguna Ocean Foundation

Biologist

Laguna Beach, CA

$21/hr

The Biologist works within the Laguna Ocean Foundation's Education and Leadership Manager to educate the public, assist with on-going research projects, and help develop educational programming. The ...

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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 Jun 11, 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.

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.

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.

Does NASA hire marine biologists?

NASA primarily focuses on space and aeronautics research, and it does not typically hire marine biologists. However, NASA collaborates with oceanographers and environmental scientists for Earth observation and climate studies, which may involve related expertise. Marine biologists seeking employment should look for opportunities in oceanographic institutions or government agencies specializing in marine science.

What jobs can I get with an oceanography degree?

A degree in biological oceanography can lead to careers such as marine biologist, research scientist, environmental consultant, or oceanographer. These roles often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and use of specialized equipment like sonar and sampling tools. Additional certifications or advanced degrees may be required for certain positions.

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 often offer higher salaries, particularly for those with specialized skills in data analysis, modeling, or fieldwork.
More about Biological Oceanography jobs
What cities are hiring for Biological Oceanography jobs? Cities with the most Biological Oceanography job openings:
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What states have the most Biological Oceanography jobs? States with the most job openings for Biological Oceanography jobs include:
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Biological Oceanography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Biological Oceanography job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 51% Physical, and 49% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,105 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Fish Biologist

Fish Biologist

Careers Fields -- Headquarters U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Rufus, OR • On-site

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Serves as the principal advisor on fisheries-related matters. Provides recommendations regarding the development, planning, budgeting, and execution of fish monitoring programs and research coordination activities at the assigned hydropower facility. Coordinates with internal and external stakeholders to support fisheries management objectives, and evaluates biological data and operational impacts. Ensures research efforts are conducted in compliance with applicable policies and regulations.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the education and experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Basic Requirement for Fish Biologist:
Degree: Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in biology, zoology, or biological oceanography that included at least 30 semester hours in biological and aquatic science and 15 semester hours in the physical and mathematical sciences. This course work must have included:
1. At least 15 semester hours of preparatory training in zoology beyond introductory biology or zoology in such courses as invertebrate zoology, comparative anatomy, histology, physiology, embryology, advanced vertebrate zoology, genetics, entomology, and parasitology; and
2. At least 6 semester hours of training applicable to fishery biology in such subjects as fishery biology, ichthyology, limnology, oceanography, algology, planktonology, marine or fresh water ecology, invertebrate ecology, principles of fishery population dynamics, or related course work in the field of fishery biology; and
3. At least 15 semester hours of training in any combination of two or more of the following: chemistry, physics, mathematics, or statistics.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes 1) Applying knowledge of fishery issues related to Indian treaties, commercial and sport fisheries, Canadian treaty, fish passage, and /or water budget, etc., to understand the obligations and relationships; 2) Reviewing biological implications of proposed actions such as changes in project operations; and 3) Overseeing fish related operations and maintenance activities. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the second lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-09).
OR
Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position, such as: Biology, Zoology, Aquatic Biology, Wildlife Biology, or Biological Oceanography.
OR
Combination of Education and Experience: A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. To compute the percentage of the requirements, divide your total months of experience by 12. Then divide the total number of completed graduate semester hours (or equivalent) beyond the second year (total graduate semester hours minus 36) by 18. Add the two percentages.Education:FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/Employment Type: OTHER
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10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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