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Ocean Explorer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Research Machinist

Harbor, OR · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

The Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University is seeking a Research ... For details on FAU's amazing offers visit us at Explore Living in St. Lucie County The goal is to ...

Fluid Dynamicist

Portland, OR · On-site

$73K - $99K/yr

About the Company We are a renewable energy and ocean technology company committed to rapidly ... space exploration and operational decision-making. * Develop new analysis methods and identify ...

Fluid Dynamicist

Portland, OR · On-site

$73K - $99K/yr

About the Company We are a renewable energy and ocean technology company committed to rapidly ... space exploration and operational decision-making. * Develop new analysis methods and identify ...

Fluid Dynamicist

Portland, OR · On-site

$73K - $99K/yr

About the Company We are a renewable energy and ocean technology company committed to rapidly ... space exploration and operational decision-making. * Develop new analysis methods and identify ...

Travel Physical Therapist

Gold Beach, OR · On-site

$1.9K - $2.3K/wk

You get to make a real difference in your patients' lives while enjoying the ocean, outdoors, and close-knit community. Helping people move better by day and exploring the Oregon coast after work?

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Ocean Explorer information

See Oregon salary details

$15

$23

$32

How much do ocean explorer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for ocean explorer in Oregon is $23.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $25.14 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.

What are popular job titles related to Ocean Explorer jobs in Oregon?

For Ocean Explorer jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ocean Explorer job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,971 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Research Machinist

Harbor, OR • On-site

Florida Atlantic University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

$28 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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


Key responsibilities

  • Operate and program CNC milling and turning equipment using CAD/CAM software.

  • Collaborate with engineers and scientists to develop, manufacture, and test oceanographic equipment and prototypes.

  • Perform planning, building, testing, and making independent decisions on fabrication tasks related to oceanographic research equipment.


Florida Atlantic University rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

503rd of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Apply now to join FAU, where tomorrow begins.


For more information on everything FAU has to offer, please visit www.fau.edu/jobs.


Note: Current FAU employees must apply as an internal applicant by logging into their existing Workday employee account.

Position Summary:

The Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University is seeking a Research Machinist in Harbor Branch Fort Pierce, FL.

FAU Harbor Branch,locatedin Ft. Pierce, is a research institute focusing on marine science and oceanography with over 200 scientists, staff and students that work and study at the site.

The Research Machinist provides specialized machining and fabrication support for oceanographic research at the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute. Responsible for CNC and manual machining, prototype development, and collaboration with engineers and scientists to design, build, and test advanced oceanographic equipment, while supporting project planning, maintenance, and safe shop operations.

Summary of Responsibilities:

Machining Operations and Equipment:

  • Responsible for programming, setting up, and operating CNC milling and turning equipment using CAD/CAM software, as well as operating manual machinery.

  • Collaborates with FAU HBOI engineers, scientists, and clients to develop, manufacture, and test advanced oceanographic equipment and instrumentation.

  • Contributes manufacturing insights and technical guidance to refine early-stage design concepts. Provides manufacturing advice to researchers designing proof-of-concept prototypes.

Coordinating and planning:

  • Performs tasks related to planning, building, and testing oceanographic equipment, and makes independent decisions on fabrication when necessary.

  • Prepares manufacturing time estimates for project scheduling and procurement. Creates and maintains production schedules.

Preventive maintenance and Repairs:

  • Performs preventative equipment maintenance and coordinates required repairs.

  • Maintains a safe, clean work environment in compliance with FAU HBOI health and safety regulations.

  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

FAU Benefits and Perks

If Benefits & Perks are important to you, then FAU is the place to be! Working at FAU has itsperks! In addition to helping drive change and having a positive impact by supporting our students, staff, and faculty, FAU offers:

  • Excellent benefit packages including Medical (PPO/HMO $50 per month single & $180 per month family), Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending plans, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and much more.

  • State retirement options including tax-deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) plans.

  • State employeesPublic Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)program.

  • Sick Leave Pool Program.

  • Paid time off (eligible employees) including vacation and sick leave, 1 personal day, 9 paid holidays, and paid winter break (atPresident'sdiscretion).

  • Paid Community Engagement Volunteer Service Day

  • Employee Educational Scholarship Program (EESP) for eligible Staff/Faculty - Tuitionassistanceafter 6 months of full-time employment. For in-unit faculty, the EESP program may be extended to spouses and dependent children (eligibility rules apply).

For details on FAU's amazing offers visit us athttps://www.fau.edu/hr/benefits/index.php

Explore Living in St. Lucie County

The goal is to provide local employers and new employees in theareaa comprehensive guide with places to live. View it here: St Lucie County, FL Things to Do, Restaurants & More - Treasure Coast

Minimum Qualifications:

Completion of an approved machinist apprenticeship program; or a high school diploma and five years of appropriate experience including CNC Machine programing of mill and lathe, setup and operation of CNC mill and lathe, and manual mill and lathe experience required.
Appropriate vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.
Required Qualifications and Skills:
Must have valid Florida Driver's license and acceptable driving record.
Basic knowledge of machining plastics and aluminum.
Ability to read and interpret design blueprints and mechanical drawings.
Must be able to communicate effectively with all levels of employees and managers.
Must be able to work flexible schedule as determined by supervisor.
Generate designs and blueprints using CAD software.
Program and operate CNC machining equipment.

Salary:

$28.00-$32.00 per hour

College or Department:

HBOI: Engineering Services

Location:

Harbor Branch (HBOI)

Work Days and Hours:

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM -5:00 PM

Application Deadline:

2026-09-01

Special Instructions to Applicant:

This recruitment has been reopened; all previous applicants are still under consideration and need not reapply. This position may close without prior notice.
VETERANS' PREFERENCE:
Applicants may claim Veterans' Preference on their application. The applicant claiming preference is responsible for providing required documentation at the time of making an application in Workday for a vacant position, or prior to the closing date of the vacancy announcement. If an applicant qualifies for Veterans' Preference and the SP position, they are shown preference by the guarantee of an interview. Veterans' Preference does not guarantee a job. For additional information, please visit https://www.fau.edu/jobs/resources/veterans/. For assistance, please contact Recruitment Services at empl@fau.edu.
APPLICATION DOCUMENTS REQUIRED:
Resume
Cover Letter
OFFICIAL SEALED TRANSCRIPTS REQUIRED:
Final candidate will be required to have official, sealed transcripts and original NACES evaluation, if applicable, sent from their educational institution to Human Resources prior to the start of employment.
PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENINGS REQUIRED:
Selected candidates must successfully complete and pass all employment screenings prior to the start of employment. Employment screenings may include a criminal background check (level I and level II), motor vehicle check, credit check, reference checks, alcohol, and drug screening check.
REQUEST FOR ACCOMMODATIONS:
Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations may contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX at 561-297-3004 or send an email at accommodate@fau.edu. To contact Human Resources, please call 561-297-3057. For communication assistance call 7-1-1.

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