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Ocean Engineering Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Ocean Engineering information

See Washington salary details

$52.7K

$166.3K

$197.1K

How much do ocean engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean engineering in Washington is $166,342.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,900.00 and $195,900.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Ocean Engineering jobs in Washington? For Ocean Engineering jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ocean Engineering jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Ocean Engineering jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Ocean Engineering jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Ocean Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Ocean Engineering job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $166,342 per year, or $80 per hour.
Sr. UEM Ocean Engineer

Sr. UEM Ocean Engineer

Pae

Bethesda, MD

$111K - $153K/yr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Amentum has an opportunity for a Senior Ocean Engineer to provide support for all phases of Magnetic Silencing Facility (MSF) and/or UEM System of Interest (SOI) lifecycle support including, but not limited to conceptual design, detailed design, hardware implementation, as-built drawings, site implementation modifications,

procurement, integration and testing, test data, reports and retirement. The candidate shall provide technical support including, but not limited to, mechanical, electrical and electromagnetic (EM) systems engineering.

The candidate shall provide support for system lifecycle decision gates and milestones including, but not limited to, system requirements review (SRR), system functional review (SFR), preliminary design review (PDR), critical design review (CDR) and test readiness review (TRR) all in support of projects defined by Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division (NSWCCD) Code 75, or other organizations associated with, or sponsors of NSWCCD Code 75.

Minimum Requirements:

  • 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 ocean engineering experience or project of similar scope.

  • Must have an active secret clearance. Note: U.S. Citizenship is required to obtain a secret clearance.

Desired qualifications:

(10+) years of relevant Engineering design support for U.S. Navy underwater electromagnetic (UEM) measurement or equivalent system installations, upgrades, and repairs to include:

  • Quality Control Reviews
  • Design and Component options for UEM systems
  • Advanced Development emergent UEM sensor systems
  • Design and Development of UEM array sensors, power anddata acquisition cables
  • Design Recommendations for new, modified or existing calibrated sources units in validating UEM systems

Compensation Details:

$124,000 - 136,000

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

07/06/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.