1

Coastal Engineering Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Senior Coastal / Marine Engineer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$102K - $139K/yr

Apply advanced coastal and structural engineering principles to develop design solutions for ... coastal protection, erosion control, and marine infrastructure. * Oversee and review design ...

... coastal, and construction personnel. * Prepare and oversee production of engineering deliverables, including plans, specifications, estimates, calculations, design reports, and other technical ...

... coastal, and construction personnel. * Prepare and oversee production of engineering deliverables, including plans, specifications, estimates, calculations, design reports, and other technical ...

... coastal, and construction personnel. * Prepare and oversee production of engineering deliverables, including plans, specifications, estimates, calculations, design reports, and other technical ...

AMHS - Junior Engineer

Juneau, AK · On-site

$34.01 - $43.24/hr

... engineering career pathways, and contribute to keeping Alaska's coastal communities connected Our organization, mission, and culture: The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) is a vital part of the ...

Interdisciplinary Engineer

Juneau, AK · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Provide civil engineering services in support of work associated with projects on the Advanced ... Experience with design work for conditions in the D17 AOR (high seismic, high-wind and coastal ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Coastal Engineering information

See Alaska salary details

$13

$33

$61

How much do coastal engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for coastal engineering in Alaska is $33.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.73 and $40.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is coastal engineering?

Coastal engineering is a specialized branch of civil engineering focused on managing and protecting coastlines, harbors, and other nearshore environments. Professionals in this field design and implement structures such as seawalls, breakwaters, and jetties to prevent erosion, manage sediment, and safeguard communities from flooding and storm surges. They also work to balance human activities with the preservation of natural habitats along the coast. Coastal engineers often collaborate with environmental scientists, urban planners, and government agencies to promote sustainable coastal development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a coastal engineer?

To thrive as a Coastal Engineer, you need a strong background in civil or environmental engineering, hydrodynamics, and coastal processes, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (such as PE). Proficiency in modeling software like MIKE21, AutoCAD, GIS, and familiarity with coastal zone management regulations is essential. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help in collaborating with stakeholders and addressing complex environmental challenges. These skills ensure sustainable, resilient coastal infrastructure and effective protection of communities from erosion, flooding, and climate change impacts.

What are some common challenges faced by coastal engineers when working on shoreline protection projects?

Coastal engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting designs to dynamic and unpredictable natural forces like tides, storms, and erosion. Balancing environmental concerns with the need for infrastructure protection requires close collaboration with environmental scientists, local communities, and regulatory agencies. Additionally, securing permits and funding can be complex due to the sensitive nature of coastal ecosystems. Successful projects typically involve multidisciplinary teamwork and adaptive management strategies to address these evolving challenges.

What is the difference between Coastal Engineering vs Hydraulic Engineering?

AspectCoastal EngineeringHydraulic Engineering
FocusDesigning and managing coastal structures, shoreline protection, and erosion controlDesigning water flow systems, dams, and flood control infrastructure
Work EnvironmentCoastal areas, shoreline projects, marine environmentsRivers, dams, urban water systems
CredentialsCivil or environmental engineering degrees, coastal engineering certificationsCivil or hydraulic engineering degrees, hydraulic engineering certifications
Industry UsageConstruction, environmental protection, marine projectsWater resource management, infrastructure development

Coastal Engineering primarily focuses on shoreline and marine environment projects, while Hydraulic Engineering deals with water flow systems like dams and flood control. Both fields require similar credentials and often overlap in water-related infrastructure projects, but their specific applications and environments differ.

How much do coastal engineers make?

Coastal engineers in the United States typically earn an average annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, with higher salaries possible for those with advanced experience or certifications. Salaries can vary based on location, level of experience, and the complexity of projects involved. In some regions, coastal engineers working on large infrastructure or environmental projects may earn more than the national average.

What does a coastal engineer do?

A coastal engineer designs and manages projects related to shoreline protection, erosion control, and the construction of structures like seawalls and breakwaters. They analyze environmental data, use modeling tools, and often work in the field to ensure coastal safety and sustainability. Strong knowledge of hydrodynamics, geology, and environmental regulations is essential for this role.

What jobs can you get with a coastal engineering degree?

A coastal engineering degree prepares individuals for roles such as coastal engineer, environmental consultant, project manager, or research scientist. These jobs involve designing and managing projects related to shoreline protection, harbor development, and environmental impact assessments, often requiring knowledge of hydrodynamics, GIS tools, and environmental regulations.

What job categories do people searching Coastal Engineering jobs in Alaska look for?

The top searched job categories for Coastal Engineering jobs in Alaska are:

Infographic showing various Coastal Engineering job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,674 per year, or $34 per hour.

Senior Coastal / Marine Engineer

Anchorage, AK • On-site


Baird

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


$102K - $139K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

You Belong at Baird
At W.F. Baird, you're never just a number, you're part of a global team that values your voice, ideas, and growth. For 40+ years, we have combined the stability of an established and trusted firm with the creativity of a niche engineering company, working where water meets land to design and deliver solutions that protect coastlines, strengthen ports, restore ecosystems, and more.
With offices across North America, the Caribbean, South America, and Australia, we offer global impact with a welcoming, people first culture. Here, you'll find meaningful work, room to grow, and the chance to make waves alongside other talented people who share your passion.
The Opportunity
Now, as we expand our presence in Anchorage, Alaska, you will have the opportunity to be part of building Baird's next chapter, bringing our coastal and water engineering excellence to the Pacific region and beyond as a Senior Coastal /Marine Engineer.
As a seniorlevel Coastal /Marine Engineer at Baird, you will be responsible for leading the design and delivery of coastal and marine infrastructure projects, with an emphasis on structural solutions such as shore protection, breakwater, and waterfront systems. Manages all phases of project work, from planning and design through construction and close-out while serving as a key client contact. Responsibilities also include business development, proposal support, and client relationship management. Regular travel, including extended site visits, is required to support project execution and client engagement.
What You Will Do
Project Management & Technical Delivery
  • Lead the planning, design, and delivery of complex coastal and waterfront infrastructure projects.
  • Serve as the primary technical lead and project manager on coastal engineering assignments.
  • Apply advanced coastal and structural engineering principles to develop design solutions for coastal protection, erosion control, and marine infrastructure.
  • Oversee and review design documentation including engineering reports, construction drawings, specifications, and cost estimates.
  • Manage project schedules, budgets, and deliverables while ensuring adherence to internal quality control processes.
  • Ensure all project work is conducted with attention to safety, environmental stewardship, and regulatory compliance.

Client Engagement
  • Manage client relationships, acting as the day-to-day point of contact and ensuring client expectations are met or exceeded.
  • Support proposal development, interviews, and business development strategies.
  • Maintain and grow client relationships; guide project strategy to align with client needs.
  • Travell, including extended site visits, is required to support project execution and maintain client relations.

Team Coordination & Collaboration
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, scientists, geomatics specialists, CAD drafters, and surveyors.
  • Lead site investigations, condition assessments, and construction oversight for projects.
  • Work effectively across offices and time zones to ensure alignment with project deliverables.
What You Will Bring
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in coastal engineering, civil engineering, ocean engineering or related field
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (P.Eng. in Canada or P.E. in the U.S.) in good standing.
  • 10+ years of coastal or marine engineering experience in consulting or a contractor role.
  • Demonstrated experience in project design or construction experience involving coastal and marine structures, ecosystem restoration or navigation and dredging.
  • Experience with site investigations, permitting, and construction-phase services.
  • Deep working knowledge of design guidelines, codes, and standards related to coastal and marine engineering.
  • Proven project management skills, including budgeting, scheduling, and risk management.
  • Effective communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences.
  • Availability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally when required.
  • Reside in the Anchorage, AK area.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in coastal engineering, civil engineering, ocean engineering or related field from an accredited institution.
  • experience in coastal and marine engineering, with a focus on design and construction of coastal infrastructure (e.g., seawalls, revetments, breakwaters, ports, or harbors).
  • Ability to clearly document the basis of design including the documentation of design codes and standards, data analysis, assumptions, calculations, and conclusions.
  • Experience working in consulting or client-service environments.
  • Advanced technical command of industry-standard modeling software, including AutoCAD Civil 3D, HEC-RAS, MIKE21, SWAN, and Delft3D.
  • Deep theoretical and practical knowledge of coastal physics, specifically wave dynamics, sediment movement, and the engineering of shoreline defenses.
  • Experience conducting feasibility studies, environmental impact analyses, and cost evaluations.
  • Familiarity with federal, state, and local regulations affecting coastal and marine projects.
  • Experience working with public agencies (e.g., EPA, USACE, NOAA, local environmental agencies) as well as private sector clients.

Although this opportunity is currently 100% remote, you must reside in the Anchorage Alaska area.
We are committed to an inclusive, accessible recruitment and selection process. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application or interview process, please let us know and we will work with you to meet your needs.

What Baird employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom