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Ocean Engineering Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Ocean Spray is hiring for a(n) Environmental Engineer! We're a team of farmers, thinkers, creators, and doers. Whatever your title, whatever your role - it always comes back to this: we're a farmer ...

Vessel Engineering Manager

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$132K - $190K/yr

We also offer the top two ocean shipping services in the world's largest trade lane - Asia to the U ... Learn more at matson.com. About the Role The Vessel Engineering Manager provides strategic ...

Prepare ocean, sea and waterway charts and maps for anything from basic navigation to search-and ... engineering. All candidates must also be U.S. citizens, eligible for a secret security clearance ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Ocean Engineering information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$52.9K

$167.2K

$198.1K

How much do ocean engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean engineering in Seattle, WA is $167,234.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,700.00 and $197,000.00 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 Seattle, WA? For Ocean Engineering jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ocean Engineering jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Ocean Engineering jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various Ocean Engineering job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $167,234 per year, or $80.4 per hour.

Senior or Principal Coastal Engineer

Natural Desires Landscaping

WA • On-site, Remote

$142K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

We are excited to announce an opportunity for a Senior or Principal level coastal engineer to join our team at NSD, a team of scientists and engineers who strive to have a positive impact through landscape scale restoration of ecosystems. We are looking for a mission driven and experienced individual to lead and grow the design side of our coastal program. Founded in 2003, we are an interdisciplinary team of over 50 people with office locations in Seattle, Bellingham, and Port Angeles, Washington.


Position Summary:


We are looking to expand our Coastal Group leadership as we grow our backlog of innovative coastal and nearshore analysis and restoration projects. This position is an excellent opportunity to provide leadership in your design practice with the support of our existing engineers and scientists - including coastal geomorphologists, hydrologists, and biologists - focused on ecosystem restoration. We work primarily with agencies, tribal clients, and non-profits, providing them with coastal and nearshore expertise to restore more functional and resilient nearshore habitats.


Our current coastal services include:

  • Coastal, nearshore, beach, lake shore, and estuary assessment and restoration
  • Coastal structure and nature-based design
  • Coastal engineering, ecological assessment, and effectiveness monitoring
  • Sea level rise/coastal flooding analysis, vulnerability assessment, and adaptation design


As a Senior or Principal, you will:

  • Manage and deliver coastal and nearshore design projects.
  • Provide leadership and strategic direction within our coastal group.
  • Lead or co-lead business development efforts tomaintainour existing relationships and position for new clients and projects.
  • Mentor and develop junior engineering staff, fostering a culture of growth and excellence.


Qualifications:

  • Minimum10+ years of experience in coastal engineering.
  • Proventrack recordof project delivery for coastal and nearshore design projects.
  • Management experience within an organization.
  • Experience with project management on complex projects.
  • Collaborative workstyle within multidisciplinary project teams.
  • Experience with business development, proposal preparation, and project interviews.
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and business development skills.
  • A commitment to restoration and innovation in science-led engineering solutions.
  • Experience with nature-based design solutions.
  • Familiarity with gravel and mixed gravel-sand beach dynamics and beach design.
  • Experience with construction oversight of coastal projects
  • Registered Washington PE or ability to receive within 6 months.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Puget Sound region professional experience in coastal engineering.
  • MS. or Ph.D. in coastal, civil, or ocean engineering, oceanography, or related discipline.
  • Preferred candidates will have more than 15 years of coastal design project and management experience.
  • Proficiencywith analysis of aerial imagery data and other coastal mapping, LiDAR data, and long-termMetOceandata.
  • Proficiencyof developing design concepts/alternatives in ACAD or other drafting software.
  • Coastal modeling experience, including experience with SWAN,XBeach, Delft 3D,GenCade, USACE Coastal Modeling System, SMS, etc.
  • Basic understanding of ESRI ArcGIS Pro, includingacquiringand importing geospatial and remote sensing data, geospatial analysis.
  • Demonstrated understanding of and sensitivity to a range of perspectives on relationships and interconnections with the natural world and traditional cultures, such as local indigenous knowledge.

Position Location:

Seattle, Bellingham, or Port Angeles, Washington; and/or Remote


NSD is currently using a hybrid model of in-office and remote work from home. For this position, our preferred candidate islocatednear one of our three office locations, but we are open to a fully remote working location anywhere in the Puget Sound Region for the right candidate with the commitment of some travel, when needed, to one of our Washington office locations and field sites.

Compensation:

NSD offers competitive salary and benefits, including up to a 4% match on 401(K), 8 paid days off, and a generous tiered paid time off policy. Wage ranges are negotiated based on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and sector knowledge (fluvial, coastal, etc.). They are Senior: $120k - $130k, Associate Principal: $130k - $150, Principal: $150k - $165k.

Start Date:

Negotiable depending on the right candidate.

Hours:

We trust each other as professionals and respect each other as people. For us, this means staff have the autonomy to manage when they come into the office and when they work from home. Our staff have flexibility as exempt hourly positions. Hourly means when needed you could work less than a 40-hour week and conversely, additional hours worked beyond 40 hours are compensated at a 1.5x hourly rate. Some variable travel to project sites and office locations is expected.

Closing Date:

Applications accepted until hiring needs are met.

We are an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who identify with groups that are frequently underrepresented in the science, engineering, technology, and math fields are highly encouraged to apply. All candidates will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or protected veteran or disabled status or any other category protected under law. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.

Why NSD? Here are a few reasons why you might want to work with us:

Advocacy and Actions:

We take pride in our work to make the world a better place, and we advocate, with our clients, for the actions needed to make that happen.

Challenging Projects with Rewarding Clients:

We have a constant stream of challenging and interesting projects with great clients. We solely work on projects that benefit the environment and communities and only select project partners for collaboration that align with our vision and values.

Culture:

We strive to be an inclusive, welcoming, and understanding group of individuals who are proud of our culture, passionate about our clients, and dedicated to the impact-driven purpose of our work. We're clear on who we are, why we're here, and what we want most to experience in our daily lives.

Flexibility:

How, when, and where you work best - works best for us. We invest in honesty and integrity, with each of us holding personal responsibility. We are accountable to ourselves, each other, and our clients.

Innovation and Excellence:

We have developed a regional reputation for being purpose-driven and delivering innovative and excellent work. Our projects require holistic, innovative problem solving, and are often ones that don't follow a linear development path. Here is where you will find us excel.

Interdisciplinary Teams:

We work in highly interdisciplinary teams and aim to consider ecological, geomorphic, hydrological, and engineering perspectives on every technical challenge. We rely on team values in all aspects of our work, and share knowledge and experience with, and across, project teams.

Investment in Growth:

We are invested in the wellbeing of our staff, and support professional growth in technical skills, soft skills, leadership opportunities, and overall career advancement. We encourage initiative and openness to learning new things.

Knowledge of Washington Waters:

We know the waters of Washington State. We help shape the landscapes and communities in the places we work and live in.

Restoration and Resiliency:

We work exclusively on aquatic and floodplain habitat restoration, watershed analysis, and restoration planning and design, including integration of climate change risk and resiliency.

Trust and Respect:

Clear is kind. We trust each other as professionals and respect each other as people. We communicate with empathy, active listening, and timely follow up, and follow through on our deliverables.