1

Ocean Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

The ocean is the largest undeveloped frontier on earth -- and the next chapter of abundant energy ... Bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering required (advanced degree preferred). * Experience ...

Nuclear Systems Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$110K - $240K/yr

The ocean is the largest undeveloped frontier on earth - and the next chapter of abundant energy ... Role Summary As Nuclear Systems Engineer, you work on the system-level design of the reactor ...

Nuclear Safety Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$110K - $240K/yr

The ocean is the largest undeveloped frontier on earth - and the next chapter of abundant energy ... Beyond just analyzing, this role will iterate closely with the engineering team to establish the ...

Nuclear Fuels Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$110K - $240K/yr

The ocean is the largest undeveloped frontier on earth - and the next chapter of abundant energy ... Bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering required (advanced degree preferred). * Experience in ...

Balance of Plant Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$110K - $240K/yr

The ocean is the largest undeveloped frontier on earth - and the next chapter of abundant energy ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical or nuclear engineering required (advanced degree preferred)

Showing results 41-60

Ocean Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$27.9K

$82.3K

$157.8K

How much do ocean engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean engineer in Washington is $82,333.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,441.00 and $87,503.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Washington?

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Ocean Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Ocean Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Ocean Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,333 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

2027 Graduate - Subsea Robotics Engineer - Maritime Robotics

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you excited about developing software that enables autonomous underwater vehicles to operate in challenging real-world environments?
Do you enjoy combining robotics, dynamics, controls, and software engineering to solve complex mission problems? If so, the Maritime Robotics Group is looking for an early-career Subsea Robotics Engineer to join our Modeling and Control team.
Our mission is to develop, integrate, test, and deploy advanced robotic capabilities that provide our nation with an advantage in autonomous maritime systems. We build software that enables autonomous and remotely operated underwater vehicles to navigate, maneuver, interact with their environment, and accomplish challenging operational missions. Our work spans simulation, controls, autonomy, system integration, laboratory testing, and at-sea experimentation, with an emphasis on delivering robust capabilities that transition to operational systems.
As a member of our team, you will work closely with robotics, software, mechanical, electrical, and ocean engineers to develop and deploy advanced underwater robotic systems.
As a member of our team, you will:
  • Develop robotics software for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), and other subsea robotic systems using ROS 2.
  • Design, implement, and maintain modular software in C++ and Python on Linux-based systems.
  • Develop and integrate dynamics, controls, guidance, navigation, and autonomy algorithms for underwater robotic platforms.
  • Build high-fidelity simulation environments and modeling tools to support software development, system integration, and mission planning.
  • Integrate sensors, actuators, and vehicle subsystems into robust robotic software architectures.
  • Evaluate vehicle performance through simulation, laboratory testing, and field experiments, using collected data to improve system performance.
  • Support integration and testing of robotic systems in laboratory, pool, and at-sea environments.
  • Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to transition software from development into operational robotic systems.

Qualifications
You will meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you:
  • Have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. When prompted to upload attachments, please include a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable).
  • Have experience developing robotic software using ROS 2.
  • Have experience developing software on Linux.
  • Are proficient in Python and C++.
  • Have experience developing, implementing, or testing dynamic systems, feedback control algorithms, robotic simulation, or autonomous systems through coursework, research projects, internships, or professional experience.
  • Have familiarity with software engineering best practices, including Git-based version control, debugging, testing, and documentation.
  • Enjoy working in multidisciplinary teams to solve challenging engineering problems.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain a Secret clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have experience developing dynamics, controls, guidance, navigation, or autonomy software for robotic systems.
  • Have experience modeling and simulating robotic or autonomous systems using Gazebo, Ignition, Stonefish, Isaac Sim, MATLAB/Simulink, or similar tools.
  • Have experience integrating robotic sensors such as IMUs, DVLs, sonars, cameras, pressure sensors, or manipulators.
  • Have experience with state estimation, system identification, trajectory generation, optimization, or motion planning.
  • Have experience with containerized software development, continuous integration, or modern DevSecOps workflows.
  • Have participated in field testing, vehicle integration, or deployment of robotic systems.
  • Have demonstrated initiative in developing new technical capabilities or leading engineering efforts.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$165,000 Annually

What Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom