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Ocean Explorer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Orchard LLC

Project Manager-Ocean Exploration Research

$73K - $93K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Project Manager-Ocean Exploration Research Remote with the ability to travel to Silver Spring, MD About @Orchard: @Orchard is a growing Woman-Owned Small Business and ...

Axiom Consultants

Education Coordinator

Rockville, MD · Remote

This work includes developing objectives and agendas, developing workshop materials (including design and development of presentations, handouts, supply guides, etc.), curating NOAA Ocean Exploration ...

Axiom Consultants

Communication Specialist

Rockville, MD · Remote

$54K - $72K/yr

Coordinating the development of a unique brand identity for NOAA Ocean Exploration for education products produced in print and shared online; performing the graphic design of new educational ...

Orchard LLC

Senior Web Developer

NOAA Ocean Exploration website is a primary gateway through which the public, educators, scientists, and other stakeholders experience ocean exploration. The Senior Web Developer helps transform ...

AtOrchard LLC

Senior Web Developer

Austin, TX · On-site

NOAA Ocean Exploration website is a primary gateway through which the public, educators, scientists, and other stakeholders experience ocean exploration. The Senior Web Developer helps transform ...

AtOrchard LLC

Machine Learning Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

The Machine Learning Engineer will develop and apply machine learning capabilities to help NOAA Ocean Exploration analyze the large volumes of scientific data and video generated during ocean ...

AtOrchard LLC

Benthic Biologist

Austin, TX · On-site

Benthic Biologist provides scientific expertise supporting NOAA Ocean Exploration initiatives focused on deep-sea ecosystems, benthic habitats, and marine biodiversity. Working alongside ...

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How much do ocean explorer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for ocean explorer in the United States is $22.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ocean explorer?

Ocean explorers are scientists, researchers, or adventurers who study and investigate the world's oceans. They use specialized equipment like submersibles, remotely operated vehicles, and sonar mapping to discover new marine species, map the seafloor, and learn about underwater ecosystems. Their work helps us understand the ocean's role in Earth's climate, biodiversity, and resources, and often leads to exciting discoveries about our planet's last great frontier.

What are some of the main challenges ocean explorers face when conducting underwater research?

Ocean explorers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, limited underwater visibility, and the technical difficulties of operating specialized equipment like submersibles and remotely operated vehicles. In addition, working at great depths can pose physical and psychological stresses, requiring thorough training and strict safety protocols. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including marine biologists, engineers, and data analysts, is also essential to overcome these obstacles and ensure the success of research missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ocean explorer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ocean Explorer, you need a strong background in marine science, oceanography, or related fields, often supported by advanced degrees and field research experience. Proficiency in using submersibles, sonar mapping systems, SCUBA equipment, and data analysis software is typically required. Curiosity, problem-solving, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for adapting to challenging environments and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are vital for conducting safe, effective research and advancing our understanding of ocean ecosystems.

How do you become an ocean explorer?

To become an ocean explorer, individuals typically need a background in marine science, oceanography, or related fields, often requiring a bachelor's degree at minimum and advanced degrees for research roles. Gaining experience through internships, certifications in scuba diving or submersible operation, and developing skills in data collection and analysis are also important for pursuing this career.

How much do ocean explorers get paid?

Ocean explorers' salaries vary widely depending on experience, funding, and the organization they work for. Entry-level positions may start around $40,000 to $60,000 annually, while experienced explorers or those working for government agencies or private companies can earn over $100,000 per year. Specialized skills, certifications, and access to advanced equipment can influence compensation levels.
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Ocean Explorer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Explorer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,318 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Project Manager-Ocean Exploration Research

Orchard LLC

Remote

$73K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Project Manager-Ocean Exploration Research Remote with the ability to travel to Silver Spring, MD
About @Orchard:
@Orchard is a growing Woman-Owned Small Business and federal prime contractor delivering mission-critical science, data, technology, program management, and workforce solutions. Since 2010, we have built high-performing teams and disciplined delivery systems that help federal agencies launch complex programs, sustain performance, and achieve meaningful mission outcomes.
Position Summary:
@Orchard is seeking an experienced Project Manager to support a highly visible contract with NOAA's Office of Ocean Exploration and Research (OER).
The Project Manager will serve as a key subject matter experience supporting NOAA's Office of Ocean Exploration and Research by coordinating multi-agency scientific partnerships, research funding initiatives, and strategic ocean exploration programs. The successful candidate will provide expertise in ocean technology and the marine environment while facilitating the National Oceanographic Partnership Program (NOPP) and its partnership with the U.S. Navy Office of Naval Research (ONR). This role is responsible for coordinating collaborative research initiatives, supporting federal funding activities, and ensuring successful execution of complex scientific programs.
This position is contingent upon contract award.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the program's technical advisor on ocean science and technology initiatives.
  • Lead coordination among NOAA laboratories, universities, cooperative institutes, and federal partners.
  • Develop and maintain integrated project plans, schedules, milestones, and deliverables.
  • Coordinate development and submission of Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs) and Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs).
  • Manage documentation and administrative activities related to IAAs, MOUs, spend plans, budget tracking, fund distribution, grants, and Cooperative Institute task orders.
  • Monitor project schedules, funding allocations, risks, milestones, and performance metrics.
  • Facilitate communications among partner organizations and provide regular status briefings to Government leadership.
  • Identify program risks, recommend mitigation strategies, and track corrective actions.
  • Monitor funded research projects to ensure documentation, reporting, and contractual requirements are satisfied.
  • Contribute to strategic planning for future ocean exploration and research initiatives.

Requirements
  • Advanced degree in oceanography, marine science, ocean engineering, or related scientific discipline is preferred.
  • Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience supporting ocean science, technology development, or marine research program management.
  • Demonstrated success coordinating multi-institutional research partnerships involving federal agencies, academia, and research organizations.
  • Knowledge of federal research funding mechanisms, including BAAs, NOFOs, cooperative agreements, grants, and interagency agreements.
  • Excellent technical writing, stakeholder engagement, and executive communication skills.
  • Experience supporting NOAA, ONR, NSF, NASA, BOEM, USGS, or similar federal science organizations is highly desirable.

Compensation: The anticipated salary range for this position is depending on the candidate's qualifications, and relevant project management experience.
What We Offer:
Competitive base salary with opportunities for advancement, career growth and professional development, work-life balance, comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), generous PTO, and paid federal holidays.
If you are a motivated and experienced professional with a passion for scientific and environmental research and project management, we want to hear from you!
@Orchard is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.
To learn more about our other exciting opportunities, visit our Jobs Page at www.atorchard.com .

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