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Ocean Engineering Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Senior Structural Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Required Qualifications · Bachelor's or Master's in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or related ABET-accredited field · 10+ years of relevant naval architecture and marine ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Required Qualifications · Bachelor's or Master's in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or related ABET-accredited field · 10+ years of relevant naval architecture and marine ...

Showing results 21-40

Ocean Engineering information

See Washington salary details

$52.7K

$166.3K

$197.1K

How much do ocean engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 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.

What kind of jobs are in ocean engineering?

Ocean engineering offers jobs such as offshore structural engineer, marine systems designer, subsea engineer, and coastal engineer. These roles involve designing, constructing, and maintaining maritime infrastructure, often requiring knowledge of fluid dynamics, materials science, and specialized tools like CAD software. Many positions require a bachelor's or master's degree in ocean or marine engineering and safety certifications for working at sea or in hazardous environments.

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 does an ocean engineer do?

An ocean engineer designs, develops, and maintains equipment and systems used in marine environments, such as ships, offshore structures, and underwater vehicles. They often work with hydrodynamics, materials, and environmental considerations, using tools like CAD software and adhering to safety and environmental standards.

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.

Are ocean engineers in demand?

Ocean engineers are in demand in industries such as offshore energy, maritime construction, and environmental monitoring, especially as renewable energy projects and marine infrastructure expand. Employment opportunities often require knowledge of fluid dynamics, materials, and specialized tools like CAD software, with a growing need for sustainable and innovative solutions in marine environments.

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $166,342 per year, or $80 per hour.

Principal or Sr. Principal Mechanical Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU)

Annapolis, MD • On-site

$98.90 - $185/hr

Other

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 539 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No

CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time

Description

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people’s lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation’s history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they’re making history.

Join Northrop Grumman on our continued mission to push the boundaries of possible across land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace. Enjoy a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real‑life solutions to our world’s biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today.

The Naval & Oceanic Systems business unit headquartered in Annapolis, MD is seeking dependable individuals willing to work in a collaborative environment and that are interested in expanding their horizons. The Mechanical Engineering Department is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer or a Senior Mechanical Principal Engineer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals.

Essential Functions

This position tasking includes concept development, problem solving, technical planning, design development and integration & testing of undersea hardware. The applicant will translate customer requirements into systems solutions that acknowledge technical, schedule, and cost constraints.

The candidate must be able to collaborate in a team environment, prioritize and adjust tasks to accomplish the project result, prioritize multiple responsibilities and/or accomplish them simultaneously, and comprehend and analyze complex problems and develop solutions. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required.

Basic Qualifications for a Principal Mechanical Engineer
  • BS degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Ocean Engineering or equivalent STEM) and a minimum of 5 years of experience or MS degree with 3 years of experience or PhD with 1 year of experience.
  • Proficiency in using common engineering design, production, analysis, and office tools.
  • Ability to work on site at Annapolis, MD campus.
  • US citizen with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI and pass a polygraph.
Basic Qualifications for a Senior Principal Mechanical Engineer
  • BS degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Ocean Engineering or equivalent STEM) and a minimum of 8 years of experience or MS degree with 6 years of experience or PhD with 4 years of experience.
  • Proficiency in using common engineering design, production, analysis, and office tools.
  • Ability to work on site at Annapolis, MD campus.
  • US citizen with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI and pass a polygraph.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Able to work in a fast‑paced environment where multiple projects are being developed and deployed simultaneously
  • Proficiency with Siemens NX and Teamcenter
  • Proficiency in geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
  • Experience with undersea vehicle and system design
  • Active TS/SCI clearance

Primary Level Salary Range: $98,900.00 - $148,300.00

Secondary Level Salary Range: $123,400.00 - $185,000.00

The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.

Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939