Ocean Explorer information
See Seattle, WA salary details
$16.96 - $18.60
4% of jobs
$18.60 - $20.24
6% of jobs
$20.24 - $21.89
11% of jobs
$22.21 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$21.89 - $23.53
16% of jobs
The median wage is $24.62 / hr.
$23.53 - $25.17
19% of jobs
$26.81 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$25.17 - $26.81
19% of jobs
$26.81 - $28.45
11% of jobs
$28.45 - $30.09
3% of jobs
$30.09 - $31.73
4% of jobs
$31.73 - $33.37
3% of jobs
$33.37 - $35.02
3% of jobs
How much do ocean explorer jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for ocean explorer in Seattle, WA is $25.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.16 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Seattle, WA?
For Ocean Explorer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ocean Explorer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?
The top searched job categories for Ocean Explorer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
