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Ocean Engineering Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Panthalassa

Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

A degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, naval architecture, ocean engineering, or other engineering discipline * 2-5 years experience designing components, structures, and ...

Panthalassa

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR

$110K - $146K/yr

Advanced degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, naval architecture, ocean engineering, or a related field, or 5 years additional experience in lieu of an advanced degree * At least ...

Panthalassa

Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR

$125K - $175K/yr

A degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, naval architecture, ocean engineering, or other engineering discipline * 2-5 years experience designing components, structures, and ...

Panthalassa

Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR

$125K - $175K/yr

A degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, naval architecture, ocean engineering, or other engineering discipline * 2-5 years experience designing components, structures, and ...

Panthalassa

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$110K - $146K/yr

Advanced degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, naval architecture, ocean engineering, or a related field, or 5 years additional experience in lieu of an advanced degree * At least ...

Panthalassa

Senior Computational Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Ocean Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a similar field. * Strong foundation in fluid mechanics ...

Panthalassa

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR

$110K - $146K/yr

Advanced degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, naval architecture, ocean engineering, or a related field, or 5 years additional experience in lieu of an advanced degree * At least ...

Panthalassa

Senior Computational Engineer

Portland, OR

$110K - $152K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Ocean Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a similar field. * Strong foundation in fluid mechanics ...

Panthalassa

Senior Computational Engineer

Portland, OR

$110K - $152K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Ocean Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a similar field. * Strong foundation in fluid mechanics ...

Panthalassa

Fluid Dynamicist

Portland, OR

$18.25 - $22/hr

Bachelor's degree in Ocean Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a similar field. * Strong foundation in fluid mechanics ...

Panthalassa

Fluid Dynamicist

Portland, OR

$18.25 - $22/hr

Bachelor's degree in Ocean Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a similar field. * Strong foundation in fluid mechanics ...

Panthalassa

Fluid Dynamicist

Portland, OR · On-site

$18.25 - $22/hr

Bachelor's degree in Ocean Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a similar field. * Strong foundation in fluid mechanics ...

Panthalassa

Naval Architect

Portland, OR

Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or similar field * 2+ years of professional experience performing stability, seakeeping, and weights/balances analyses ...

Panthalassa

Naval Architect

Portland, OR

Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or similar field * 2+ years of professional experience performing stability, seakeeping, and weights/balances analyses ...

Panthalassa

Senior Naval Architect

Portland, OR

Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or similar field. * 5+ years of professional experience performing stability, seakeeping, and weights/balances analyses ...

Panthalassa

Naval Architect

Portland, OR · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or similar field * 2+ years of professional experience performing stability, seakeeping, and weights/balances analyses ...

Panthalassa

Senior Naval Architect

Portland, OR

Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or similar field. * 5+ years of professional experience performing stability, seakeeping, and weights/balances analyses ...

Panthalassa

Senior Naval Architect

Portland, OR · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or similar field. * 5+ years of professional experience performing stability, seakeeping, and weights/balances analyses ...

Panthalassa

Test Engineering Technician

Portland, OR · On-site

About the Company Panthalassa is a renewable energy and ocean technology company committed to ... About the Job We are seeking a Test Engineering Technician to join our cross-functional Test ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOcean Engineering JobsOcean Engineering Jobs in Portland, OR

Ocean Engineering information

See Portland, OR salary details

$49.3K

$155.8K

$184.5K

How much do ocean engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean engineering in Portland, OR is $155,754.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,500.00 and $183,500.00 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 Portland, OR? For Ocean Engineering jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ocean Engineering jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Ocean Engineering jobs in Portland, OR are:
Ocean Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Engineering job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $155,754 per year, or $74.9 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Panthalassa

Portland, OR • On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

About the Company
We are a renewable energy and ocean technology company committed to rapidly developing and deploying technologies that will ensure a sustainable future for Earth by unlocking the vast energy potential of its oceans. Our focus is on capturing civilizational levels of ultra-low-cost renewable energy for applications including computing and affordable renewable fuels delivered to shore.
The company is a public benefit corporation headquartered in Portland, Oregon and backed by leading venture capitalists, philanthropic investors, university endowments, and private investment offices. We operate as an idea meritocracy in which the best ideas change the company's direction on a regular basis.
About the Job
We are developing a core technology, the "Node", that will operate in the worst conditions the world's oceans have to offer for years at a time without human maintenance or intervention.
As a Mechanical Engineer, you will spearhead the design of numerous mechanical components and assemblies that must withstand extreme loads and a harsh ocean environment. You will support subsystem design through trade studies, CAD modeling, analysis, lab testing, and deployment preparation. This position requires a highly motivated, hands-on engineer who thrives in ambiguity, can execute with autonomy, and is eager to take on end-to-end ownership, defining requirements and architecture and driving through design, prototype testing, and final build. We expect you to be especially strong in analysis and to gravitate toward first-principles, fundamental-physics approaches to problem solving.
Candidates should have strong interpersonal skills and be able to thrive in a creative, scrappy, and collaborative environment. If you are an excellent engineer, regardless of your background, we want you to apply.
Responsibilities
  • Design and analyze mechanical components and assemblies including structures, enclosures, fluid systems, and test equipment
  • Create and maintain component and assembly CAD models using NX and Teamcenter
  • Create detailed component and assembly drawings with a strong grasp of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and tolerance stack-ups
  • Drive design trade studies and engineering reviews, helping document decisions and technical findings
  • Work with, and direct, a skilled technician workforce to carry out prototyping, testing, fabrication, and development of operational and maintenance procedures
Required qualifications:
  • A degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, naval architecture, ocean engineering, or other engineering discipline
  • 2-5 years experience designing components, structures, and assemblies from a variety of materials (steel, aluminum, titanium, plastics, composites, etc.)
  • Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling
  • Strong use of hand calculations for structural analysis
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills; ability to incorporate feedback from engineers, technicians, and suppliers
  • Demonstrated ability to take ownership of tasks and work independently
  • A work history encompassing at least one design, build, test, deploy/release/produce cycle
Desired qualifications:
  • Master's degree in mechanical engineering or related field, or additional industry experience
  • Experience designing packaging for electronics in harsh environments
  • Experience with sheet metal part design
  • Hands-on experience with fabrication, prototyping, or testing
  • Experience with NX/Teamcenter
  • Exposure to instrumentation and controls (sensors, actuators)
  • Programming or scripting skills (Python, MATLAB, Julia, etc.) for analysis and data review
Additional Requirements
  • Travel to vendors and test sites as needed.
  • Intermittently able to work longer hours and weekends to support critical needs. While we expect a lot of each other, we also offer a high degree of autonomy and work-life balance.
Compensation and Benefits
If hired for this full-time role, you will receive:
  • Cash compensation of $125,000 - $175,000.
  • Equity in the company. We're all owners and if we're successful, this equity will be far and away the most valuable component of your compensation.
  • A benefits package that helps you take care of yourself and your family, including:
    • Unlimited, flexible paid time off and flexible working hours.
    • Health insurance (the company pays 100% of gold level PPO plan for full-time employees, their partners, and dependents).
    • Dental insurance (the company pays 33% for full-time employees and 100% for their partners and dependents).
    • Vision insurance (the company pays 100% for full-time employees, their partners, and dependents).
    • Disability insurance (the company pays 100% for a policy to provide long-term financial support if you become disabled).
    • Ability to contribute to tax-advantaged accounts, including 401(k), health FSA, and dependent care FSA.
  • Relocation assistance to facilitate your move to Portland (if needed).
Location
On-site, our offices, lab, shop, and manufacturing facilities are located in and near Portland, Oregon.

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