ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Ocean Data Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Data Scientist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$108K - $187K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • PTO

... Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas ... The individual that fills this role will be responsible for applying data science and engineering ...

Leidos

Research Engineer

San Diego, CA

$87K - $157K/yr

The qualified Research Engineer will be part of a strong team of scientists and engineers in our ... Analyze ocean data from multiwavelength sensors. Perform signal detection and characterization.

Sofar Ocean

Science Engagement Lead

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

You will bridge science and storytelling, creating ideas that resonate globally and spark ... Translate complex ocean and climate data into engaging narratives for digital and live platforms ...

Leidos

Research Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

The qualified Research Engineer will be part of a strong team of scientists and engineers in our ... • Analyze ocean data from multiwavelength sensors. • Perform signal detection and ...

Saildrone

Senior Engineering Manager, Perception

Alameda, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our team processes petabytes of unique, multi-modal ocean data collected across millions of ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related ...

Saildrone

Senior Engineering Manager, Perception

Alameda, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our team processes petabytes of unique, multi-modal ocean data collected across millions of ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related ...

UC San Diego

Senior Research Technician - 140374

San Diego, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... science equipment on research ships. Assembles, operates and maintains oceanographic sampling equipment for collection of geological, physical, chemical and biological data. Operates and maintains ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOcean Data Science JobsOcean Data Science Jobs in California

Ocean Data Science information

What is an ocean data science?

An Ocean Data Science job involves collecting, analyzing, and interpreting ocean-related data to solve marine and environmental challenges. Professionals in this field use data science techniques, including machine learning, statistics, and modeling, to study ocean currents, climate change, marine ecosystems, and resource management. They work with large datasets from satellites, underwater sensors, and research vessels to provide insights for science, industry, and policy-making. Ocean data scientists collaborate with marine researchers, government agencies, and private companies to improve understanding and sustainable management of ocean resources.

What does an ocean data science do?

Ocean Data Science professionals routinely analyze large datasets collected from sources such as remote sensing satellites, underwater sensors, and research vessels. Their daily tasks often include data cleaning, statistical analysis, and creating visualizations to interpret trends in ocean temperature, currents, or ecosystem health. They frequently collaborate with oceanographers, marine biologists, and policy makers to deliver actionable insights and may contribute to published research or environmental monitoring initiatives. Depending on the organization, these professionals may also be involved in developing predictive models, writing scientific reports, or presenting findings at conferences. The work environment is typically collaborative and may offer opportunities for both fieldwork and remote analysis, supporting both independent and team-driven research efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in ocean data science?

To thrive in Ocean Data Science, you need a strong background in marine science, statistics, and data analysis, often supported by a degree in oceanography, data science, or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or R, geospatial analysis tools such as GIS, and experience using oceanographic databases are highly valued, as are certifications in data analysis or scientific computing. Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and present complex findings clearly. These abilities enable professionals to turn vast oceanic datasets into actionable insights that further scientific understanding and inform marine conservation and policy decisions.

What can you do with an ocean data science degree?

An ocean data science degree prepares individuals to analyze marine and environmental data using tools like statistical software and programming languages such as Python or R. Graduates can work in research, environmental monitoring, climate modeling, or conservation efforts, often collaborating with scientists and policymakers to address ocean-related challenges.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ocean Data Science jobs in California?

The most popular types of Ocean Data Science jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Ocean Data Science jobs in California?

For Ocean Data Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ocean Data Science jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Ocean Data Science jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Ocean Data Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Ocean Data Science job openings:

Ocean Data Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Data Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Science and Conservation Associate

Laguna Ocean Foundation

Laguna Beach, CA • Remote

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Science and Conservation Associate

Location: Laguna Beach, California
Organization: Laguna Ocean Foundation (LOF)
Status: Part-time (Contingent upon funding)

About Laguna Ocean Foundation

The Laguna Ocean Foundation (LOF) is a nonprofit dedicated to protecting and restoring Laguna Beach’s coastal ecosystems through science, education, conservation, and community engagement. Working with universities, government agencies, and community partners, LOF is advancing innovative coastal monitoring by integrating field ecology with drones, GIS, machine learning, environmental DNA (eDNA), and citizen science.

Position Summary

LOF seeks a motivated Science and Conservation Associate to support the technical foundation of its research and conservation programs. This position transforms field observations into high-quality geospatial data that inform ecological monitoring, restoration, conservation planning, and public education across Laguna Beach’s Marine Protected Areas.

The Associate will manage geospatial workflows—from drone and underwater ROV surveys through machine-learning analysis, GIS integration, habitat mapping, and scientific visualization. Working closely with LOF biologists, university researchers, GIS specialists, and interns, the Associate will help build one of California’s most comprehensive long-term coastal spatial datasets while supporting scientific publications, grant-funded research, StoryMaps, and emerging conservation technologies.

Position contingent upon funding.

Primary Responsibilities

Remote Sensing & Field Operations

● Conduct drone surveys under FAA Part 107 regulations.

● Operate underwater ROVs to document marine habitats.

● Coordinate field logistics, equipment, permits, and data collection.

GIS & Spatial Analysis

● Process drone imagery into ortho-mosaics and elevation models.

● Maintain GIS databases and produce habitat, species, and change-detection maps.

● Integrate remote sensing with biological field data.

Artificial Intelligence & Data Science

● Develop and apply machine-learning models for habitat and species classification.

● Improve classification workflows and support Python-based geospatial automation.

Research & Communication

● Collaborate with scientists and partner institutions on applied conservation research.

● Assist with scientific publications, technical reports, grant proposals, and conference presentations.

● Develop Story-Maps, dashboards, and visual products that communicate science to diverse audiences.

Training & Program Support

● Mentor interns and volunteers in GIS, drone operations, and data collection.

● Help establish standardized monitoring and data management protocols.

Required Qualifications

● Bachelor’s degree in GIS, Geography, Environmental Science, Marine Science, Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Ecology, or related field (or equivalent experience).

● At least one year of experience in remote sensing, GIS, spatial analysis, or environmental monitoring.

● Proficiency with ArcGIS Pro and/or QGIS.

● Experience with Python for geospatial analysis or machine learning.

● Experience processing drone imagery using photogrammetry.

● Familiarity with image classification or computer vision workflows.

● Knowledge of geospatial data management and reproducible workflows.

● FAA Part 107 certification (or ability to obtain).

● Excellent organizational, communication, and technical writing skills.

Preferred Qualifications

● Experience in coastal or marine ecosystems.

● Underwater ROV experience.

● Familiarity with eDNA, ecological monitoring, or conservation research.

● Experience working with universities, government agencies, or nonprofits.

● Grant writing or peer-reviewed publication experience.

● Experience with ArcGIS Online, StoryMaps, Dashboards, or web GIS.

● Knowledge of TensorFlow, PyTorch, Detectron2, or similar frameworks.

● Experience with cloud-based geospatial workflows.

Please send your resume and cover letter to: Please send in your material by July 31 to info@lagunaoceanfoundation.org

E04JI800ui4140992ms