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Entry Level Ocean Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Ocean Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$29.7K

$68.8K

$117K

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

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level ocean engineer in Virginia is $68,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,100.00 and $77,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Most entry-level ocean engineers do not earn that level of salary; such high earnings are typically associated with senior or specialized roles in the engineering field, often requiring extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. Salaries reaching $500,000 annually are more common in executive positions or highly specialized consulting roles within the industry.

Are ocean engineers in demand?

Ocean engineers are in demand due to ongoing needs in offshore energy, marine research, and environmental monitoring. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as industries seek expertise in designing and maintaining underwater structures, requiring skills in CAD, project management, and knowledge of marine environments.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level ocean engineering roles typically do not pay $4,000 a week without advanced education or specialized certifications. High-paying jobs in fields like sales, real estate, or skilled trades may reach that level, but most require experience, licensing, or specific skills rather than a degree. For high earnings, gaining relevant certifications and experience is essential in these fields.

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.

How to get into ocean engineering?

To become an entry-level ocean engineer, obtain a bachelor's degree in ocean engineering, marine engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, developing skills in CAD software and marine systems, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects in this specialized field.

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.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Ocean Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Ocean Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Ocean Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,767 per year, or $33.1 per hour.
Intern to Entry Level Conversion - Engineering (Summer 2026 Intern Program)

Intern to Entry Level Conversion - Engineering (Summer 2026 Intern Program)

Boeing

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 598 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Intern to Entry Level Conversion - Engineering (Summer 2026 Intern Program)

Company:

These positions are for 2026 intern to entry-level conversion offers.

Boeing has shaped the course of human history through aerospace innovations. Today, because of our amazing people and powerful technologies, our products connect the globe, protect freedom, and advance scientific discovery around the world. From the depths of the ocean, to Mars and beyond, we're inspiring the next century of explorers - we invite you to join us on the journey ahead!

Join us as we build the future in Engineering! Opportunities are available in but not limited to: Electronic & Electrical Engineering, Flight Engineering, Materials and Process Engineering, Mechanical / Structural Engineering, Production Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Software, Systems Engineering, Test and Evaluation Engineering, Product Security Engineering, Safety and Airworthiness.

Learn more about Boeing Engineering Innovation and Engineering Careers.

Some of these positions are hybrid. This means that the selected candidate will be required to perform some work onsite at one of the listed location options. This is at the hiring team's discretion and could potentially change in the future.

Some of these positions have been identified as virtual opportunities and will not require the selected candidate to relocate.

Some of these positions are expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at one of the listed location options.

Most positions must meet export control compliance requirements. To meet export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
Additionally, some positions require the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship.

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Some positions will require the completion of a technicalassessmentas part of the selection process. Failure to complete theassessmentwill remove you from consideration.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skill/Experience):
  • Currently majoring in a core engineering/applied sciences discipline (Aeronautical/Aerospace, Civil (especially Structural emphasis or interest), Chemical, Computer Engineering/Science, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, Engineering Technology (Manufacturing Engineering Technology), Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Software Engineering, Structural Engineering, Quality Engineering, Industrial Engineering Technical, Industrial Management, Operations Research, Cybersecurity, Engineering Mechanics, Systems Engineering).
  • Currently enrolled student attending a college or university with an expected graduation date prior to September 2027
  • Previously interned with Boeing
Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
  • Strong academic performance
  • Exceptional organizational and collaboration skills as demonstrated through leadership positions on teams and/or in student or civic organizations
  • Strong technical experiences as demonstrated through technical projects, research or engineering internships
  • Exceptional communication skills and interest and enthusiasm related to engineering, aerospace and a career with Boeing
Typical Education & Experience for Level 1 Roles:

Education/experience typically acquired through advanced technical education from an accredited course of study in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics or chemistry (e.g. Bachelor) or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience. In the USA, ABET accreditation is the preferred, although not required, accreditation standard.

Typical Education & Experience for Level 2 Roles:

Education/experience typically acquired through advanced technical education from an accredited course of study in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics or chemistry (e.g. Bachelor) and typically 2 or more years' related work experience or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience (e.g. Master). In the USA, ABET accreditation is the preferred, although not required, accreditation standard.

Typical Education & Experience for Level 3 Roles:

Education/experience typically acquired through advanced technical education from an accredited course of study in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics or chemistry (e.g. Bachelor) and typically 5 or more years' related work experience or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience (e.g. PhD, Master + 3 years' related work experience). In the USA, ABET accreditation is the preferred, although not required, accreditation standard.

Relocation:

Some of these positions offer relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Shift:

These positions are for 1st shift

Union Representation Statement:

These positions are in multiple U.S. locations and may or may not be covered by a collective bargaining agreement. In locations where SPEEA representation applies, this job family will be covered by the terms of the collective bargaining agreement. Applicable and appropriate educational/certifications credentials from an accredited institution and/or equivalent experience is required.

Safety Sensitive Statement:

Some of these positions are safety-sensitive positions and are subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

NASA Access:

Some of these positions require the ability to obtain access to a National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) facility.


At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.


The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.


The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.


Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations

Entry-Level (Level 1) summary pay range: $50,000 - $119,000
Associate (Level 2) summary pay range: $60,000 - $144,000
Mid-Level (Level 3) summary pay range: $72,000 - $174,000

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

Relocation:

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Export Control Requirement:

Safety Sensitive:

Security Clearance:

This position does not require a Security Clearance.

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 1 (United States of America)

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Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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