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Ocean Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sofar Ocean

Science Engagement Lead

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

Spotter serves ocean scientists, offshore energy operators, coastal engineers, ports, and government agencies. Wayfinder serves commercial shipping fleets and the maritime industry. You will be ...

Foth

Project Engineer - Construction Management

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's Degree in Civil, Structural, Coastal, Marine, Ocean Engineering, or closely related technical field * 5+ years of engineering consulting experience supporting civil infrastructure projects ...

Leidos

Systems Engineer-San Diego,California

San Diego, CA

$107K - $195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree in naval architecture, mechanical engineering, systems engineering, ocean engineering, or a related technical discipline. * At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience ...

Foth

Project Engineer - Construction Management

Petaluma, CA

$90K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's Degree in Civil, Structural, Coastal, Marine, Ocean Engineering, or closely related technical field * 5+ years of engineering consulting experience supporting civil infrastructure projects ...

Leidos

Systems Engineer-San Diego,California

San Diego, CA

$107K - $195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree in naval architecture, mechanical engineering, systems engineering, ocean engineering, or a related technical discipline. * At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience ...

Foth

Project Engineer - Construction Management

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's Degree in Civil, Structural, Coastal, Marine, Ocean Engineering, or closely related technical field * 5+ years of engineering consulting experience supporting civil infrastructure projects ...

Leidos

Systems Engineer-San Diego,California

San Diego, CA

$107K - $195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree in naval architecture, mechanical engineering, systems engineering, ocean engineering, or a related technical discipline. * At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience ...

Leidos

Systems Engineer-San Diego,California

San Diego, CA

$107K - $195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree in naval architecture, mechanical engineering, systems engineering, ocean engineering, or a related technical discipline. * At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience ...

Odin Dynamics, Inc

Fall Engineering Intern

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

S. in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Robotics, Ocean Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. * Genuine interest in building ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

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Ocean Engineer information

What does an ocean engineer do?

An Ocean Engineer designs, develops, and maintains technology and structures used in marine environments. They work on offshore platforms, underwater robotics, coastal protection systems, and renewable ocean energy projects. Their role involves solving engineering challenges related to underwater pressure, corrosion, and wave impact. Ocean Engineers collaborate with marine scientists and environmentalists to create sustainable solutions for ocean exploration and resource utilization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ocean engineer?

To thrive as an Ocean Engineer, you need a strong background in marine engineering principles, physics, mathematics, and a relevant engineering degree such as naval architecture or ocean engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, computational modeling tools, underwater robotics, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are often required. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help Ocean Engineers excel in multidisciplinary and often remote environments. These abilities ensure safe, innovative, and efficient solutions to complex challenges encountered in marine and offshore projects.

What are typical work environments and daily tasks for an ocean engineer?

Ocean Engineers often split their time between office-based design work and field assignments, such as conducting underwater surveys or supervising offshore installations. Daily tasks may include designing marine structures, analyzing environmental data, preparing technical reports, and collaborating with scientists, divers, and other engineers. Many projects involve working as part of a multidisciplinary team to address challenges like corrosion, environmental impact, and safety compliance. The role can require travel and periods working at sea, offering a dynamic and varied work environment for those who enjoy both technical and hands-on experiences.

Are ocean engineers in demand?

Ocean engineers are in demand due to ongoing needs in offshore energy, marine infrastructure, and environmental monitoring. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as industries seek expertise in designing and maintaining underwater systems and structures, often requiring knowledge of fluid dynamics, materials, and specialized tools. Job prospects are generally favorable for qualified professionals with relevant technical skills and certifications.

How much do ocean engineers get paid?

Ocean engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or specialized skills in subsea systems or marine environments can lead to higher compensation, often exceeding $150,000 annually.

What kind of jobs are in ocean engineering?

Ocean engineers work on designing, building, and maintaining equipment and structures used in marine environments, such as offshore oil platforms, renewable energy devices, and underwater vehicles. They often use skills in fluid dynamics, materials science, and computer-aided design, and may work in research, construction, or project management roles in the maritime industry.

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

The most popular types of Ocean Engineer jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Ocean Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Ocean Engineer job openings:

Ocean Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Science Engagement Lead

Sofar Ocean

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

The Role
We are looking for a science storyteller and brand activator to help the world see the ocean the way we do: alive, dynamic, and central to the planet's future.
This is not a traditional marketing role. You will bridge science and storytelling, creating ideas that resonate globally and spark engagement across YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, and other social platforms.
You will work across both sides of our business. Spotter serves ocean scientists, offshore energy operators, coastal engineers, ports, and government agencies. Wayfinder serves commercial shipping fleets and the maritime industry. You will be comfortable speaking to all of them.
You will develop creative, data-driven content concepts, rally our science and design teams to bring them to life, and lead campaigns that make Sofar's mission tangible. You will identify the events, stages, awards, and partnerships that matter most for global visibility and ensure Sofar shows up with energy, consistency, and purpose.
What You'll Do
Brand Storytelling and Content Leadership
  • Develop original, science-driven content ideas that inspire and educate audiences across both the Spotter and Wayfinder customer bases, from research institutions and coastal agencies to offshore energy, engineering firms, ports, and shipping fleets.
  • Translate complex ocean and climate data into engaging narratives for digital and live platforms, including building or directing the data visualizations that carry those narratives.
  • Collaborate with Sofar's scientists, engineers, and designers to ensure scientific accuracy and compelling visual storytelling.
  • Move fast. Some stories are tied to a storm, a deployment, or a news cycle and need to ship in days, not weeks.
  • Use AI tools to accelerate drafting, iteration, and production without sacrificing accuracy or voice.
  • Be comfortable serving as an authentic voice or spokesperson for Sofar when appropriate, and just as comfortable behind the camera.
Partnerships and Co-Marketing
  • Lead partnership development for co-marketing initiatives with scientific and regional organizations.
  • Build joint content, campaigns, and moments that extend Sofar's reach through partner audiences.
  • Own the relationship management that keeps these partnerships productive over time.
Global Awareness and Event Strategy
  • Identify and evaluate high-impact conferences, summits, and global events for Sofar's participation across both scientific and commercial maritime audiences.
  • Write and submit speaking proposals.
  • Partner with the marketing and design teams to define the messaging and creative direction for event presences, including booth design, storytelling themes, and visual experiences.
  • Coordinate with internal teams or vendors to ensure successful event execution.
Awards, Campaigns, and Brand Moments
  • Research and submit to global innovation, sustainability, and ocean-focused awards.
  • Craft compelling submissions that connect Sofar's science to measurable impact.
  • Develop integrated campaigns around key moments including launches, award wins, and major environmental observances.
Performance and Learning
  • Review performance metrics across channels to understand what resonates and apply insights to future storytelling.
  • Partner with Growth and Marketing Ops teams to evaluate awareness KPIs and inform campaign direction.
About You
  • Background in ocean science or maritime industry with strong creative instincts.
  • Proven experience developing multimedia content (video, written, or visual) that bridges science and storytelling.
  • Able to work on fast turnarounds and use AI tools to generate and iterate on content.
  • Comfortable working with data visualization tools to turn scientific insights into visual stories.
  • Able to speak credibly to a range of audiences, from ocean scientists to offshore energy operators to shipping fleet managers.
  • Comfortable leading production or creating yourself, whether that means writing scripts, shaping campaigns, or hosting content.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to scientific accuracy.
  • Strategic thinker with a curiosity for metrics, able to learn and iterate based on audience response.
  • Experience working with design and production partners to bring ideas to life.
  • Passionate about making ocean science accessible, engaging, and globally relevant to both Spotter and Wayfinder audiences.
  • Nice to have: experience working with environmental geospatial data.
Estimated Salary Range
  • $80,000 - $115,000
  • The range listed is what we reasonably expect to pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and may be modified in the future. Actual compensation packages are based on several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, experience, and equity package.
Our Approach to AI in the Hiring Process:
At Sofar, we use AI tools in our day-to-day work, and we don't expect our hiring process to be any different. Here's how we think about it:
Applying: Write your own first draft - we want to hear your voice and understand your real experience. AI is fine for refining and polishing, not for generating your story.
Take-home assessments: Complete these on your own unless we've explicitly said otherwise. We'll always be upfront about it when AI is allowed.
Interview prep: Go for it. Use AI to research Sofar, practice your responses, and sharpen your thinking before we meet.
During interviews: This is you. We're a small team and we move fast - live conversations are how we get to know you, and we're genuinely curious how you think in real time.
A note on transparency: We're a lean People team, and we use AI to help with things like drafting job descriptions, preparing interview questions, and candidate communications. We don't use it to make hiring decisions - those are always ours.
The through line: use AI to show more of yourself, not less :)
About Working at Sofar:
Hybrid work: We're a hands-on team building hardware and software that operates in the real world - so being together matters. We ask that most team members are in office at least 70% of the time, though some roles (like field technicians or hardware engineering) may require more. Fully remote roles are designated as such in the job posting.
Visa sponsorship: We do sponsor visas and retain an immigration lawyer to support the process. While we can't guarantee sponsorship for every role or situation, if we make you an offer, we'll make every reasonable effort to make it work.
A note on applying: We mean it when we say we want the strongest people - not the most credentialed ones. If you're excited about this work but don't check every box, please apply anyway. Research consistently shows that underrepresented candidates are more likely to self-select out, and that's a loss for everyone. Sofar operates at the intersection of ocean science, climate, and technology - the problems we're solving are consequential, and the perspectives we bring to them matter. We're actively working to build a team that reflects that.

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