ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Ocean Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tamus

Research Specialist I-III

Corpus Christi, TX

Bachelor's degree in Oceanography, Environmental Science, or related field of study. * Four (4) ... Research Specialist II * Bachelor's degree in Oceanography, Environmental Science, or related field ...

Williammary

Research Scientist

Gloucester Point, VA

$65K/yr

D. in Coastal Engineering, Oceanography, Civil/Environmental Engineering, Marine Science, Applied Mathematics, or closely related field Experience * Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed research and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOcean Research Jobs

Ocean Research information

See salary details

$50K

$98.6K

$173.5K

How much do ocean research jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean research in the United States is $98,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Ocean Researcher, you need a strong background in marine biology, oceanography, data analysis, and typically a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in marine science. Familiarity with technical tools like GIS software, underwater sampling equipment, and data modeling systems is often required, along with certifications in diving or vessel operation. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help researchers collaborate effectively and present findings to diverse audiences. These skills and qualities are vital for conducting accurate research, ensuring safety, and contributing meaningful insights to the scientific community and environmental management.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in ocean research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in ocean research often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, limited accessibility to remote marine locations, and the logistical complexities of deploying and maintaining research equipment at sea. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, data analysts, and vessel crews, is essential for overcoming these hurdles. Building strong communication skills and adaptability helps researchers address evolving field conditions and ensures that data collection remains accurate and reliable.

What is ocean research?

Ocean research is the scientific study of the ocean's physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects. Researchers in this field investigate topics such as marine ecosystems, ocean currents, climate change, and underwater geology. Their work helps us understand the health of the oceans, discover new marine species, and develop strategies for conserving marine environments. Ocean research is vital for addressing global challenges like sea level rise, pollution, and the sustainable use of ocean resources.
More about Ocean Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Ocean Research jobs? Cities with the most Ocean Research job openings:
What states have the most Ocean Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Ocean Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ocean Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ocean Research jobs are:
Ocean Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,569 per year, or $47.4 per hour.
Research Associate (postdoctoral researcher)

Research Associate (postdoctoral researcher)

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Dartmouth College rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
Position Summary
This postdoctoral position is part of a project funded by the NASA Sea Level Change Team (https://sealevel.nasa.gov/science-team/overview/) recently awarded to Dartmouth College. Join this growing, multidisciplinary team to help advance new understanding of polar regions and improve projections of sea level rise.
Position Description
Now in its fourth iteration, the NASA Sea Level Change Team (N-SLCT) has the goal of improving our understanding of regional relative sea-level change on a range of timescales and including a diverse set of physical processes that interact and combine in potentially complicated ways across a range of timescales. The N-SLCT relies heavily on NASA satellite observations in addition to reanalysis and modeling efforts to advance our understanding of sea level change in the past, present and future. As part of this team, our project uses novel understanding and observations of ice-ocean interaction at grounding line boundaries, combined with high-resolution ocean and ice sheet modeling to improve the projections of sea level change in key sectors of West and East Antarctica and provide a comprehensive view of sea level change contributions from Antarctica in decades to come.
We are specifically looking for researchers with a background in ice sheet modeling, ocean modeling, or other polar processes. Computational experience running numerical simulations is required for this position and experience in the development or improvement of software is highly desirable. This position will provide the opportunity to work with a team of collaborators with expertise in ice sheet modeling, oceanography, and remote sensing, as well as to take part in the NASA Sea Level Change Team effort. Compensation for this position is competitive. Applicants should have a PhD or plan to finish their PhD in glaciology, physical oceanography, Earth Sciences or a related field.
Key Accountabilities
  • Designs and conducts experiments to investigate evolution of ice and polar oceans.
  • Performs numerical simulations of ice sheet contribution to sea level.
  • Analyzes and interprets acquired data.
  • Implements changes in numerical software as needed.
  • Stays current on relevant literature.
  • Conducts day-to-day research activities independently.
  • Shares objectives, results, interpretation, and conclusions with the research team.
  • Prepares, submits and shepherds journal manuscripts
  • Presents results at international conferences
  • Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness through actions, interactions, and communications with others.
  • Performs other duties as required.

Qualifications
Requirements
  • PhD in a relevant field (physical oceanography, glaciology, Earth Sciences, engineering or a related field) with a publication history
  • Experience running numerical simulations of Earth Science processes
  • Interest in working on computationally intensive projects
  • Demonstrated strong written and interpersonal communication skills

What Dartmouth College employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply