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Entry Level Ocean Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oceaneering

GIS Systems Engineer II

Suitland, MD · On-site

... entry level individual contributors to ensure the work completion as per set standards and ... of ocean engineering, hydrography, surveying. • Experience using geospatial display and ...

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Entry Level Ocean Engineering information

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$30K

$69.4K

$118K

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level ocean engineering 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 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 background in ocean engineering or a related engineering discipline, strong analytical skills, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB, and basic knowledge of marine systems and regulatory standards are typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel in multidisciplinary project environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to complex ocean engineering challenges.

How to get into entry level ocean engineering?

To enter entry-level ocean engineering, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in ocean 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 is the difference between Entry Level Ocean Engineering vs Entry Level Marine Engineering?

AspectEntry Level Ocean EngineeringEntry Level Marine Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Ocean Engineering, Marine Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Naval Architecture
Work EnvironmentOffshore platforms, research vessels, coastal facilitiesShip engines, port facilities, shipyards
Industry UsageOcean exploration, offshore oil & gas, renewable energyShip operation, maintenance, propulsion systems
Common Search IntentEntry Level Ocean Engineering vs Entry Level Marine Engineering

Entry Level Ocean Engineering focuses on designing and analyzing systems related to the ocean environment, often involving offshore structures and marine technology. Entry Level Marine Engineering centers on ship machinery, propulsion, and maintenance. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in work settings and specific industry applications.

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

As an entry-level ocean engineer, you can expect to support senior engineers with tasks such as collecting and analyzing oceanographic data, preparing design drawings for marine structures, and assisting with site inspections or equipment testing. Early projects often involve hands-on work with modeling software, report writing, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including civil engineers and marine biologists. These experiences provide a strong foundation in both technical and project management skills, setting you up for increased responsibility and advancement within the field.

What is an entry level ocean engineering job?

Entry level ocean engineering jobs are positions for recent graduates or those new to the field of ocean engineering. These roles typically involve assisting with the design, construction, and maintenance of structures and systems used in marine environments, such as ships, offshore platforms, and underwater vehicles. Entry level ocean engineers may work on tasks like data collection, modeling ocean conditions, and supporting senior engineers on larger projects. These positions provide foundational experience and help new engineers develop specialized skills in marine technology and engineering practices.

Are entry level ocean engineers in demand?

Entry level ocean engineers are in moderate demand, especially in industries such as offshore energy, marine research, and environmental monitoring. Employment opportunities often require knowledge of CAD software, marine systems, and safety protocols, with job growth influenced by infrastructure projects and technological advancements in ocean exploration.
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What cities are hiring for Entry Level Ocean Engineering jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Ocean Engineering job openings:

What states have the most Entry Level Ocean Engineering jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Ocean Engineering jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Ocean Engineering jobs look for?

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Entry Level Ocean Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Ocean Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Associate Ocean Engineer

StaffRight Associates, LLC

Groton, CT • On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

***Citizenship is strictly required for this role in accordance with federal contract compliance standards.The Opportunity

StaffRight Associates is recruiting for a premier aerospace and defense partner to identify a highly motivated Associate Ocean Engineer. This full-time, entry-level role offers an exceptional path to build foundational expertise while executing high-impact maritime initiatives. Working within a fast-paced research and development environment, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to engineer cutting-edge technologies, supported by hands-on mentorship from senior engineering leadership.

What You’ll Do

  • Architect, design, and develop complex maritime systems throughout the entire product lifecycle, from initial concept to fabrication, testing, and long-term sustainment.

  • Design and construct specialized oceanographic moorings as well as high-reliability subsea wet cables.

  • Maintain, operate, and optimize unmanned platforms and oceanographic instrumentation for operational deployments.

  • Author comprehensive technical procedures to guide production, assembly, integration, and sea testing protocols.

  • Conduct pier-side and at-sea testing operations, traveling approximately 5% to 15% annually.

  • Integrate lessons learned into future technical frameworks to continuously elevate system performance.

  • Analyze complex datasets and generate clear diagnostic reports for key stakeholders, customers, and multidisciplinary teammates.

What You Bring

  • Bachelors Degree In Ocean Engineering or a closely related technical discipline.

  • Proven Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering aptitude with strong troubleshooting capabilities.

  • Proficiency in evaluating Mechanical Drawings and Electrical Schematics.

  • Practical skills utilizing Hand Tools alongside Electrical Test Equipment (e.g., Digital Multimeters, Oscilloscopes, Function Generators, and Voltage Probes).

  • Hands-on experience performing Data Plotting, Data Analysis, and scripting using Python or MATLAB.

  • Strong Technical Writing and Cross-Functional Communication skills.

  • Preferred experience utilizing Altium, OrCAD, SolidWorks, CAD, or Linux Based Systems.

  • Exposure to Subsea Cable Design, Offshore Rigging, Beamforming Localization, Acoustic Propagation Models, Soldering, or Electronics Assembly is highly desirable.

  • Familiarity operating within Research And Development settings and agile, multidisciplinary teams.

Compensation & Total Rewards

  • Base Annual Salary: $100,000 – $140,000

  • Full relocation assistance package provided

  • Top-tier health coverage and a generous 401(k) plan

Joining StaffRight Associates

When you partner with StaffRight Associates in your search for your next role, you’re doing more than pursuing a job, you’re aligning yourself with a team of experts committed to placing top-tier talent in truly impactful positions. We take pride in fostering professional growth and connecting forward-thinking individuals with organizations that value innovation and excellence. We look forward to showcasing your expertise in a way that resonates with our clients and opens the door to meaningful opportunities.

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