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Ocean Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pae

Sr. UEM Ocean Engineer

Bethesda, MD

$111K - $153K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Ocean Engineering or in a relevant Engineering discipline * (10 +) years of collective technical and management experience with U.S. Navy technical programs/projects, marine and ...

Amentum

Sr. UEM Ocean Engineer

Ijamsville, MD · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Ocean Engineering or in a relevant Engineering discipline * (10 +) years of collective technical and management experience with U.S. Navy technical programs/projects, marine and ...

Pae

Sr. UEM Ocean Engineer

Ijamsville, MD

$105K - $144K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Ocean Engineering or in a relevant Engineering discipline * (10 +) years of collective technical and management experience with U.S. Navy technical programs/projects, marine and ...

Applied Physical Sciences and General Dynamics

Successful candidates will have a BS degree in ocean engineering or a related field and will focus on building foundational skills and proficiency within their domain. They will be responsible for ...

Applied Physical Sciences and General Dynamics

Successful candidates will have a BS degree in ocean engineering or a related field and will focus on building foundational skills and proficiency within their domain. They will be responsible for ...

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All JobsOcean Engineering Jobs

Ocean Engineering information

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$46.5K

$146.9K

$174K

How much do ocean engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean engineering in the United States is $146,868.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is ocean engineering?

Ocean engineering is a branch of engineering focused on the design, development, and maintenance of structures and systems that operate in the ocean environment. This field combines elements of mechanical, civil, electrical, and environmental engineering to address challenges such as offshore energy production, underwater robotics, coastal protection, and marine transportation. Ocean engineers work on projects like oil platforms, underwater vehicles, renewable energy installations, and coastal infrastructure, ensuring they are safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable. The work often involves multidisciplinary collaboration and adapting to the unique and harsh conditions of marine environments.

How much money do ocean engineers make?

Ocean engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $90,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $130,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in specialized environments can lead to higher compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Ocean Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ocean Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical, civil, or marine engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in ocean engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, ocean modeling tools, and industry certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you excel in multidisciplinary, often challenging marine environments. These competencies are crucial for designing safe, innovative solutions to complex problems in ocean structures, vessels, and coastal systems.

What can you do with an ocean engineering degree?

An ocean engineering degree prepares individuals for careers designing, building, and maintaining offshore structures, ships, and underwater systems. Graduates often work in fields such as marine renewable energy, subsea engineering, and coastal protection, utilizing skills in fluid dynamics, materials science, and computer-aided design. Certification and knowledge of industry standards are also important for many roles.

What is the difference between Ocean Engineering vs Marine Engineering?

AspectOcean EngineeringMarine Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ocean Engineering or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Engineering or Naval Architecture
Work EnvironmentOffshore platforms, research vessels, coastal facilitiesShip design, propulsion systems, shipyard environments
Industry UsageResearch, offshore oil & gas, renewable energyShipbuilding, maritime transportation, naval defense

Ocean Engineering and Marine Engineering share overlapping skills and credentials, but differ mainly in focus. Ocean Engineering emphasizes offshore structures, ocean systems, and research, while Marine Engineering concentrates on ship design, propulsion, and maritime operations. Both fields are vital in maritime industries, but their specific applications and work environments distinguish them.

Is ocean engineering a good career?

Ocean engineering is a specialized field focused on designing and maintaining systems related to the ocean environment, such as ships, offshore structures, and underwater vehicles. It offers opportunities in research, environmental protection, and energy sectors, often requiring strong technical skills in mathematics, physics, and engineering tools. The career can be rewarding for those interested in marine environments and technological innovation, with job prospects varying by industry demand and geographic location.

What are some typical challenges ocean engineers face when working on offshore projects?

Ocean engineers often encounter challenges such as harsh weather conditions, unpredictable sea states, and complex logistical issues when working offshore. Ensuring the safety and durability of structures like oil rigs, underwater pipelines, or renewable energy platforms in these environments requires careful planning, advanced engineering techniques, and close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. Additionally, ocean engineers must consider environmental regulations and the impact of their projects on marine ecosystems. These challenges make strong problem-solving skills and adaptability essential for success in this field.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

In engineering fields, senior roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain specialized software or systems engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, often with experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. High-paying positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive expertise, and work in high-demand industries or executive-level roles.
More about Ocean Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Ocean Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Ocean Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ocean Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Ocean Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Ocean Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Ocean Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ocean Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ocean Engineering jobs are:
Ocean Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,868 per year, or $70.6 per hour.
Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Ocean Systems

Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Ocean Systems

Triton Systems, Inc.

Chelmsford, MA • On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Ocean Systems

Company Summary

Triton combines 30+ years of experience with exciting growth and innovation opportunities within product development and R&D space. We support Government and commercial markets by delivering advanced solutions across applications in defense, security, aerospace, energy, environmental sustainability, and human health. Where we see a larger opportunity, we create new companies to scale these solutions into businesses. Our teams thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment where we tackle complex challenges, meet our customers' toughest requirements, and deliver high-impact results on time, on budget and have fun while doing it.

Triton is developing exciting new products for the subsea and ocean environment. We are seeking a hands-on engineer with an interest in ocean systems prototyping and development.

Triton is developing unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), UUV components, unmanned surface craft, submarine systems, wave energy systems, aerial systems, and acoustic systems for the defense and energy sectors. Innovation and technical problem solving with a diverse team of researchers will be a major part of your work life.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead project teams and serve as Principal Investigator on projects where mechanical and systems engineering is critical.
  • Design, build, and test mechanical systems for the ocean environment. Integrate electrical and software systems.
  • Rapidly develop high-quality CAD in SolidWorks for fabrication and manufacturing from concept-level sketches and CAD
  • Formulate and solve analysis problems using available software and resources to support quantitative design. Conduct engineering design reviews.
  • Design & execute experiments and field tests, including in-water field tests. Analyze performance data. Communicate progress and results to the customer.
  • Take responsibility for growing internal capabilities and professionalism in the lab
  • Develop new concepts and write project proposals around your expertise and the company's experience

Basic Qualifications:

  • 4-year degree in Mechanical Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent; MS a plus
  • 10+ years of industry ocean engineering experience
  • Candidates must have demonstrated interest and ability to design, build, and test control systems for machinery and/or robots

Desired Qualifications:

  • Direct experience with listed job responsibilities
  • Hands on experience in a machine shop or other fabrication expertise.
  • Desire to take ownership of all aspects of project success and take a systems engineering mindset
  • Experience designing for the ocean environment, subsea systems, unmanned systems, electric motors, hydraulic systems, propulsion, undersea connectors.
  • Experience with DoD R&D projects, Navy programs, and/or SBIR
  • Familiarity with a wide range of analysis tools for Ocean Engineering.

Due to the nature of our business and information associated with this position, interested candidates must be US Citizens and may be subject to a security investigation.

Come join our success and grow with the strength of these fascinating new technologies. We are looking for individuals with confidence and the right stuff. We offer a competitive salary with full benefits package.

Triton Systems is a U. S. Government contractor; therefore we are required to gather applicant information for Government reporting purposes.

Triton Systems, Inc. Headquarters is located at 330 Billerica Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and we remain committed to hiring and retaining a talented and diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro