ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Ocean Engineering Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

AGF Talent

Be Seen First

Ocean Engineer / Naval Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

S. or M.S. in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or Marine Engineering * Demonstrated ... experience taking a vessel or offshore platform from design through build and deployment

New

AGF Talent

Be Seen First

Ocean Engineer / Naval Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

S. or M.S. in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or Marine Engineering * Demonstrated ... experience taking a vessel or offshore platform from design through build and deployment

New

AGF Talent

Be Seen First

Ocean Engineer / Naval Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

S. or M.S. in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or Marine Engineering * Demonstrated ... experience taking a vessel or offshore platform from design through build and deployment

New

Pae

Sr. UEM Ocean Engineer

Bethesda, MD

$111K - $153K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Ocean Engineering or in a relevant Engineering discipline * (10 +) years of collective technical and management experience with U.S. Navy technical programs/projects, marine and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOcean Engineering JobsOcean Engineering Jobs in Washington, DC

Ocean Engineering information

See Washington, DC salary details

$52.5K

$165.7K

$196.3K

How much do ocean engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean engineering in Washington, DC is $165,718.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,500.00 and $195,200.00 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 Washington, DC?

For Ocean Engineering jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ocean Engineering jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Ocean Engineering jobs in Washington, DC are:

Ocean Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Engineering job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% 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.

Ocean Engineer / Naval Architect

Washington, DC • On-site

AGF Talent
Human Resources Consulting Services • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about AGF Talentexternal

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Ocean Engineer / Naval Architect


Location: Washington, DC (with periodic time at sea)

Type: Full-Time

Compensation: $130,000 - $150,000


AGF Talent is leading the search for an Ocean Engineer / Naval Architect on behalf of a fast-growing company building a first-of-its-kind class of energy-generating infrastructure.


The Opportunity

This organization is building a first-of-its-kind class of energy-generating infrastructure, blending naval architecture, marine engineering, and first-principles problem solving in ways that haven't been done before.


As the Ocean Engineer / Naval Architect, you'll be responsible for making sure the platform floats, survives, and performs in the open ocean. You'll own the hull and structure from concept through test and validation, drive the CAD and simulation environment, and serve as a primary point of contact with classification societies and third-party validators.


If you love ambiguous, hands-on problems and want to build something that's never existed before, this is about as ground-floor as it gets.


What You'll Be Doing

  • Owning platform CAD and detailed design, from concept through fabrication-ready deliverables
  • Leading seaworthiness analysis, including stability, structural loads, motion response, and survivability in extreme sea states
  • Driving all third-party validation efforts, including classification societies, independent engineering reviews, and regulatory approvals
  • Planning and executing physical testing programs, including tank testing, load testing, and at-sea validation of prototype platforms


What You Bring

  • A B.S. or M.S. in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or Marine Engineering
  • Demonstrated experience taking a vessel or offshore platform from design through build and deployment
  • Willingness to spend periodic time at sea as part of platform testing and validation


Nice to Have

  • A track record working directly with classification societies and regulatory bodies


What's In It For You

  • Competitive salary of $130,000-$150,000
  • Meaningful equity in a fast-growing company
  • Generous relocation assistance for candidates relocating from anywhere in the US
  • A seat at the ground floor of an entirely new category of infrastructure


If you're ready to help build something that's never been built before, we'd love to hear from you.