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Ocean Engineering Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

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Ocean Engineering information

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$46.2K

$145.9K

$172.9K

How much do ocean engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean engineering in Baltimore, MD is $145,934.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,800.00 and $171,900.00 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 Baltimore, MD?

For Ocean Engineering jobs in Baltimore, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ocean Engineering jobs in Baltimore, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Ocean Engineering jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

Ocean Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Engineering job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,934 per year, or $70.2 per hour.

Senior Ocean Systems Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD

$103K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 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 73 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you have a passion for research, development, and integration of ground-breaking maritime technology?
Do you have a desire to help solve some of the US Navy 's most exciting challenges in the undersea domain?
Do you have a strong background in at-sea testing, systems engineering, systems integration, undersea vehicles, or undersea sensing?
If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking a Senior Ocean Systems Engineer for the Ocean Systems and Engineering Group. In this role, you will support advancement of our nation's next generation of maritime prototype systems from concept development to installation to testing. You will work with a team from government, industry, and academia to develop performance specifications, lead technical studies, and develop systems engineering products for emerging maritime programs, to include autonomous undersea vehicles (AUVs). This role will include the opportunity to direct test and evaluation (T&E), as well as engagement with AUV developers and operators. As a member of our team, you will build on APL's legacy of scientific research and development and trusted service to the nation.
As a Senior Ocean Systems Engineer, you will...
  • Apply innovative thinking to the detailed development, integration, and evaluation of technical solutions for maritime payloads, autonomous vehicles, acoustic systems, communications systems, and vehicle autonomy.
  • Perform technical and/or project leadership for small- to medium-sized technical tasks that may involve both hardware and software.
  • Develop, integrate, and test early prototype Research and Development (R&D) systems.
  • Generate systems engineering products such as performance specifications, concepts of operation, and system architecture/engineering plans.
  • Support small focused studies involving adaptation of technology to urgent or emerging problems.
  • Collaborate with multiple DoD system partners to evaluate current strategies, risks, and opportunities to develop and implement T&E strategies that refine/improve their programs and missions.
  • Collaborate with AUV operators to develop operation and maintenance processes to support the full system life cycle (requiring 10% travel to partner organization).

Qualifications
You meet our minimum requirements for the job if you...
  • Have a B.S. degree in a technical or scientific field such as Systems Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or equivalent.
  • Have 5+ years of relevant experience working with maritime systems or a closely related field to this position.
  • Have experience generating and performing system test events.
  • Have experience with maritime platform design and integration.
  • Are passionate about system engineering methods and tools for maritime system development, integration, evaluations, and technology analysis.
  • Possess strong organization and planning skills, with record of accomplishment in a team environment.
  • Have excellent social skills and outstanding written and oral communications skills.
  • Are able to work within the government infrastructure and address leadership roles in an environment of contractor and government teams.
  • Can support the travel needed in order to perform the essentials functions of the job.
  • Are able to obtain an interim Top Secret level security clearance by you start date and can ultimately obtain Top Secret level 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 a M.S. or Ph.D. degree in a technical or scientific field such as Systems Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent.
  • Have experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering tools, language, and methodology.
  • Have experience as a Task Lead or Project Manager.
  • Have experience with fielded autonomous systems.
  • Hold an active Top Secret security clearance.

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
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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