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Ocean Engineering Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

Woolpert

Hydrographic Specialist

North Charleston, SC · On-site

Bachelor's degree in surveying, geomatics, environmental science, ocean engineering, geology, geography, spatial science, marine science, or a comparable field. * Self-motivated, quick learning ...

Socket.dev

Hydrographic Specialist

North Charleston, SC · On-site

$75 - $94/hr

Bachelor's degree in surveying, geomatics, environmental science, ocean engineering, geology, geography, spatial science, marine science, or a comparable field. * Self-motivated, quick learning ...

US Navy

Oceanographer/Meteorologist

Awendaw, SC · On-site

Their mission is to define and apply the physical environment, from the bottom of the ocean to the ... science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general ...

US Navy

Oceanographer/Meteorologist

Ridgeville, SC · On-site

Their mission is to define and apply the physical environment, from the bottom of the ocean to the ... science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general ...

US Navy

Oceanographer/Meteorologist

Charleston, SC · On-site

Their mission is to define and apply the physical environment, from the bottom of the ocean to the ... science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general ...

US Navy

Oceanographer/Meteorologist

Mount Pleasant, SC · On-site

Their mission is to define and apply the physical environment, from the bottom of the ocean to the ... science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general ...

US Navy

Oceanographer/Meteorologist

Summerville, SC · On-site

Their mission is to define and apply the physical environment, from the bottom of the ocean to the ... science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general ...

US Navy

Oceanographer/Meteorologist

Hollywood, SC · On-site

Their mission is to define and apply the physical environment, from the bottom of the ocean to the ... science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general ...

Stevens Towing Co., Inc.

Chief Engineer

Yonges Island, SC · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Engine Room Officers in Charge of an Engineering Watch - STCW III/1 * Proficiency in Survival Craft ... Must have a minimum of 5 years of ocean sailing experience * Must have a minimum of 5 years of sea ...

Volvo Group

Senior Logistics Engineer

Ridgeville, SC · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

... Ocean, OTR). * Define, evaluate, and optimize transport flows, lead times, delivery windows, and ... Experience in logistics engineering, transport optimization, or supply chain design (preferably in ...

Volvo Car Corporation

Senior Logistics Engineer

Ridgeville, SC · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

... Ocean, OTR). * Define, evaluate, and optimize transport flows, lead times, delivery windows, and ... Experience in logistics engineering, transport optimization, or supply chain design (preferably in ...

Volvo Car USA

Senior Logistics Engineer

Ridgeville, SC · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

... Ocean, OTR). * Define, evaluate, and optimize transport flows, lead times, delivery windows, and ... Experience in logistics engineering, transport optimization, or supply chain design (preferably in ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOcean Engineering JobsOcean Engineering Jobs in Charleston, SC

Ocean Engineering information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$43.5K

$137.4K

$162.8K

How much do ocean engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean engineering in Charleston, SC is $137,441.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,000.00 and $161,900.00 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 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 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 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 due to ongoing needs in offshore energy, marine infrastructure, and environmental monitoring. Employment opportunities are available in research institutions, government agencies, and private companies, often requiring skills in CAD, project management, and knowledge of marine environments.

What does an ocean engineer do?

An ocean engineer designs, develops, and maintains equipment and systems used in marine environments, such as ships, offshore platforms, 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 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 are based in research facilities, shipyards, or offshore platforms and may require certifications in safety and engineering standards.

What are popular job titles related to Ocean Engineering jobs in Charleston, SC?

For Ocean Engineering jobs in Charleston, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ocean Engineering jobs in Charleston, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Ocean Engineering jobs in Charleston, SC are:

Ocean Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Engineering job openings in Charleston, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $137,441 per year, or $66.1 per hour.

Hydrographic Specialist

Woolpert

North Charleston, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Woolpert Inc. rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

243rd of 453 rated engineering

Job description

Position Overview

Woolpert is looking for a Hydrographic Survey Specialist to join our Hydrographic Survey team out of our Charleston, SC This is a great opportunity for someone who wants to spend real time in the field, working on marine infrastructure, marine construction, and navigational charting surveys throughout the US. Travel to other states will come up as project needs dictate, and candidates should expect approximately 100 days of travel throughout each year. 

We are especially interested in candidates who bring both survey skills and vessel operation experience, including towing vessels on trailers. Ideally this person can run the boat as well as run the survey.

We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must already possess work authorization in the country the job is located. 

What You Will Do:

Field tasks will include: 

  • Multibeam and singlebeam hydrographic survey 
  • GNSS topographic surveys 
  • Terrestrial LiDAR surveys 
  • Survey vessel mobilization 
  • GNSS and optical horizontal and vertical control surveys 
  • Operating and towing survey vessels, and working in coastal waterways 

Office tasks will include: 

  • Multibeam and singlebeam data processing 
  • GNSS static control network processing and adjustment 
  • AutoCAD Civil 3D 
  • Mobile and static terrestrial LiDAR survey processing (also referred to as 3D laser scanning) 

What You Will Bring 

  • Bachelor's degree in surveying, geomatics, environmental science, ocean engineering, geology, geography, spatial science, marine science, or a comparable field. 
  • Self-motivated, quick learning, curious, and resourceful, with a common-sense approach to problem solving and workload management. 
  • A genuine interest in working for a marine-focused organization, and an appetite for regular field work and travel. 
  • Experience working on vessels and conducting hydrographic or land surveys. 

Preferred experience and qualifications: 

  • Experience operating and towing survey vessels. 
  • Experience with marine survey software such as HYPACK, QINSy, Qimera, SESWin, Discover, or other hydrographic survey programs. 
  • Experience using Global Mapper, AutoCAD, or other CAD software. 
  • Experience with magnetometer, side scan sonar, sub-bottom profiling, or USBL positioning systems. 
  • Experience with LiDAR mapping and processing, including terrestrial or airborne systems. 
  • Experience gathering GPS data with Trimble GPS hardware and software, including data processing. 
  • Working knowledge of geodesy and experience generating PPK solutions. 
  • Experience with 3D visualization. 
  • Working toward Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) licensure. 

None of the above is required on day one. We regularly hire people with a variety of backgrounds and give them adequate training on all of these topics, but candidates who already have exposure to any of it is preferred. 

Benefits You Will Love

Certified as a Great Place to Work, Woolpert is one of the fastest-growing architecture, engineering, and geospatial companies in the world. With over 75 offices and countless projects around the globe, you'll work on meaningful assignments that improve quality of life around the world. In addition to offering competitive pay, we provide employees with a robust set of unique benefits, including:

  • Freedom to Work program: Set your own schedule and location (as appropriate).
  • Principal program: Earn the opportunity to become an owner of the firm.
  • Flexible paid time off/vacation: Take time off when it makes sense for you and your team.
  • Career development: Explore a wide range of learning and growth opportunities within and across industries.
  • Health, life, vision, and dental insurance: Cover all your medical bases.
  • Paid sick time, retirement plan, fitness reimbursement, pet insurance, identity protection, technology stipend, employee assistance program, and more!

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