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Entry Level Ocean Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ATI

Machining Engineer (Entry Level)

Cudahy, WI

From the edges of space to the bottoms of ocean, our materials are proven to perform -- and so is ... We are currently hiring an Entry-Level Machining Engineer at our Cudahy, WI location. As a ...

ATI

Machining Engineer (Entry Level)

Cudahy, WI · On-site

From the edges of space to the bottoms of ocean, our materials are proven to perform -- and so is ... We are currently hiring an Entry-Level Machining Engineer at our Cudahy, WI location. As a ...

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Entry Level Ocean Engineer information

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$30K

$69.4K

$118K

How much do entry level ocean engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level ocean engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level ocean engineer do?

An entry level ocean engineer assists in the design, development, and testing of equipment and systems used in marine environments, such as ships, offshore platforms, and underwater vehicles. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers to analyze data, conduct fieldwork, and create technical reports. Their tasks may include supporting environmental impact studies, helping with equipment installation, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. This role provides hands-on experience in applying engineering principles to solve challenges unique to the ocean environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level ocean engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Ocean Engineer, you need a solid grounding in ocean engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in ocean or marine engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry-standard modeling systems is often required, along with knowledge of safety and environmental regulations. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in project-based, multidisciplinary environments. These skills ensure safe, innovative, and efficient solutions to complex challenges in marine and offshore engineering projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Ocean Engineer vs Marine Technician?

AspectEntry Level Ocean EngineerMarine Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Ocean Engineering or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's in Marine Technology or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, research, and project planning in labs or offices, with fieldworkHands-on maintenance and repair on ships, offshore platforms, or marine facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, research institutions, offshore companiesMaritime companies, shipyards, offshore service providers

Entry Level Ocean Engineers focus on designing and planning marine systems, often working in labs or offices, while Marine Technicians handle maintenance and repairs directly on ships or offshore platforms. Both roles are essential in the marine industry but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level ocean engineer expect to work on during their first year?

As an entry level ocean engineer, you'll typically assist with a variety of projects such as designing, testing, and maintaining offshore structures, underwater vehicles, or marine equipment. Your daily work may involve conducting site surveys, analyzing oceanographic data, preparing technical reports, and supporting senior engineers with fieldwork. You’ll also likely collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including marine biologists and environmental scientists, to ensure project goals are met while adhering to safety and regulatory standards. This hands-on experience helps build a strong foundation for future specialization and advancement in the field.
More about Entry Level Ocean Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Ocean Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Ocean Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ocean Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Ocean Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Ocean Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Ocean Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Ocean Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Ocean Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Ocean Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Ocean Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Ocean Engineer I

University of Southern Mississippi

Gulfport, MS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

University Of Southern Mississippi rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

436th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Ocean Engineer I
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Ocean Engineer I.
Position Details
Location
Marine Research Center
1030 West Pier, Port of Gulfport
Gulfport, Mississippi, 39501
United States
Division
Ocean Enterprise
Position Type
Staff
Employment Status
Full Time
Grant Funded
Yes
Pay Grade
E11
Posting Close Date
August 13, 2026
Special Instructions to ApplicantsApplicants must be currently authorized to work in theUnited States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. TheUniversity will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary
This positionrequires a diverse skillset that applies science and engineering principles tothe ocean environment. It encompasses the integration, design, construction,and maintenance of ocean monitoring equipment for use on stationary platformsand in autonomous vehicles. Work isperformed using independent judgement under the limited supervision of ahigher-level scientist or technical supervisor. This position is located at theMarine Research Center, in Gulfport MS and is part of the USM Roger F. WickerCenter for Ocean Enterprise.Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  1. Evaluate instrument capabilities based on mission requirements and make recommendations on instruments best suited for any specific study or test to be performed.
  2. Design and fabricate equipment housings that will facilitate the best use of limited space in uncrewed (UxS) systems.
  3. Integrate instruments into autonomous vehicles based on available space and power to maximize performance while limiting design modifications to avoid degradation of UxS performance.
  4. Monitor equipment and UxS performance and make any necessary adjustments to the vehicles or plans to maximize capabilities of individual sensors and vehicles.
  5. Contribute to test plans and participate in test and evaluation of systems and vehicles and perform analysis of data collected.
  6. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor'sdegree from an accredited college or university in Ocean Science, Data Science,Engineering, or closely related field. This is an entry level position with a requirement of 0-2 years'experience. Related education andrelated experience may be substituted on an equal basis. US Citizen with a ValidDriver's License is required.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Proficient writing skills are necessary to perform stated duties.
  • Ability to effectively present information, prepare written test plans and author technical findings in the form of research papers and customer required reports.
  • Demonstrated problem solving skills and an understanding of engineering data, schematics and studies.
  • Must be capable of responding to questions from groups of data science professionals, customers, and the public.

Preferred QualificationsMaster'sdegree from an accredited college or university in Ocean Engineering, remotesensing, physical science, or a closely related field and 2-4 years' hands-on experiencewith ocean observing instrumentation and remote vehicle operations.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of SouthernMississippi has remained dedicated to preparingstudents for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 studentsin Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across theMississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. Weare a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one ofthe nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work inpolymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringinglanguage to children with communication disorders. We are also a nationalleader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography,nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enterfields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs suchas computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation ofbusiness leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages byproducing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition ofexcellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nationaccredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, ourstudent-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion andpersistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.

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