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Ocean Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sofar Ocean

Science Engagement Lead

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

Spotter serves ocean scientists, offshore energy operators, coastal engineers, ports, and government agencies. Wayfinder serves commercial shipping fleets and the maritime industry. You will be ...

Orchard LLC

Project Manager-Ocean Exploration Research

$73K - $93K/yr

Serve as the program's technical advisor on ocean science and technology initiatives. * Lead coordination among NOAA laboratories, universities, cooperative institutes, and federal partners.

Whoi

Marine Policy Center Visiting Scholar

Clark, SD · On-site

The VSP emphasizes interdisciplinary exchange and the co-development of ideas that connect ocean science to real-world applications. Scholars benefit from access to WHOI's scientific expertise ...

State of Louisiana

CHEF

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Scientists from all over the world are aboard LUMCON vessels for up to 200 days a year conducting research in support of major ocean science initiatives funded by the National Science Foundation ...

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Ocean Science information

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$11K

$80.4K

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How much do ocean science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean science in the United States is $80,389.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is ocean science?

Ocean science, also known as oceanography, is the study of the ocean and its processes, including the physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects of the marine environment. Ocean scientists investigate topics such as ocean currents, marine life, ecosystems, and how oceans interact with the atmosphere and climate. Their research helps us understand environmental changes, manage marine resources, and protect ocean health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in ocean science, and why are they important?

To excel in Ocean Science, a strong background in marine biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics is essential, typically supported by a relevant degree such as oceanography or marine science. Familiarity with scientific research methods, field sampling equipment, GIS software, and data analysis tools like MATLAB or R is commonly required. Critical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating on research projects and sharing findings with stakeholders. These competencies enable professionals to conduct rigorous research, contribute to marine conservation, and address complex environmental challenges.

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

Ocean scientists often face challenges such as conducting research in remote and harsh marine environments, dealing with limited access to research vessels or equipment, and navigating complex regulatory requirements for sample collection. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and institutions can help overcome logistical hurdles, while staying updated on technological advancements (such as remote sensing and autonomous underwater vehicles) can ease data collection. Building strong communication skills is also crucial, as ocean science frequently involves conveying findings to policymakers, stakeholders, and the public.

What is the difference between Ocean Science vs Marine Biology?

AspectOcean ScienceMarine Biology
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in oceanography, marine science, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in marine biology, biology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch vessels, laboratories, field sites across oceansMarine research centers, aquariums, fieldwork in marine habitats
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, research institutionsResearch institutions, aquariums, environmental organizations

Ocean Science is a broad field focusing on the physical, chemical, and geological aspects of the oceans, while Marine Biology concentrates on the biological and ecological aspects of marine organisms. Both careers often overlap but differ in their primary focus and research methods.

How much do ocean scientists get paid?

Ocean scientists' salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, but typically range from $50,000 to $100,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced researchers or those with advanced degrees can earn higher salaries, especially in government or private sectors involved in research and environmental consulting.

What are jobs that work in ocean science?

Jobs in ocean science include oceanographers, marine biologists, marine chemists, and physical oceanographers. These roles involve studying ocean ecosystems, climate interactions, and marine resources, often requiring fieldwork, data analysis, and specialized equipment like sonar and sampling tools.

What can you do with an ocean science degree?

An ocean science degree prepares individuals for careers such as marine biologist, oceanographer, environmental consultant, or research scientist. Graduates often work in research institutions, government agencies, or environmental organizations, utilizing skills in data analysis, fieldwork, and laboratory techniques.
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What cities are hiring for Ocean Science jobs?

Cities with the most Ocean Science job openings:

What states have the most Ocean Science jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ocean Science jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Ocean Science jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Ocean Science jobs are:

Ocean Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 75% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,389 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Science Engagement Lead

Sofar Ocean

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

The Role
We are looking for a science storyteller and brand activator to help the world see the ocean the way we do: alive, dynamic, and central to the planet's future.
This is not a traditional marketing role. You will bridge science and storytelling, creating ideas that resonate globally and spark engagement across YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, and other social platforms.
You will work across both sides of our business. Spotter serves ocean scientists, offshore energy operators, coastal engineers, ports, and government agencies. Wayfinder serves commercial shipping fleets and the maritime industry. You will be comfortable speaking to all of them.
You will develop creative, data-driven content concepts, rally our science and design teams to bring them to life, and lead campaigns that make Sofar's mission tangible. You will identify the events, stages, awards, and partnerships that matter most for global visibility and ensure Sofar shows up with energy, consistency, and purpose.
What You'll Do
Brand Storytelling and Content Leadership
  • Develop original, science-driven content ideas that inspire and educate audiences across both the Spotter and Wayfinder customer bases, from research institutions and coastal agencies to offshore energy, engineering firms, ports, and shipping fleets.
  • Translate complex ocean and climate data into engaging narratives for digital and live platforms, including building or directing the data visualizations that carry those narratives.
  • Collaborate with Sofar's scientists, engineers, and designers to ensure scientific accuracy and compelling visual storytelling.
  • Move fast. Some stories are tied to a storm, a deployment, or a news cycle and need to ship in days, not weeks.
  • Use AI tools to accelerate drafting, iteration, and production without sacrificing accuracy or voice.
  • Be comfortable serving as an authentic voice or spokesperson for Sofar when appropriate, and just as comfortable behind the camera.
Partnerships and Co-Marketing
  • Lead partnership development for co-marketing initiatives with scientific and regional organizations.
  • Build joint content, campaigns, and moments that extend Sofar's reach through partner audiences.
  • Own the relationship management that keeps these partnerships productive over time.
Global Awareness and Event Strategy
  • Identify and evaluate high-impact conferences, summits, and global events for Sofar's participation across both scientific and commercial maritime audiences.
  • Write and submit speaking proposals.
  • Partner with the marketing and design teams to define the messaging and creative direction for event presences, including booth design, storytelling themes, and visual experiences.
  • Coordinate with internal teams or vendors to ensure successful event execution.
Awards, Campaigns, and Brand Moments
  • Research and submit to global innovation, sustainability, and ocean-focused awards.
  • Craft compelling submissions that connect Sofar's science to measurable impact.
  • Develop integrated campaigns around key moments including launches, award wins, and major environmental observances.
Performance and Learning
  • Review performance metrics across channels to understand what resonates and apply insights to future storytelling.
  • Partner with Growth and Marketing Ops teams to evaluate awareness KPIs and inform campaign direction.
About You
  • Background in ocean science or maritime industry with strong creative instincts.
  • Proven experience developing multimedia content (video, written, or visual) that bridges science and storytelling.
  • Able to work on fast turnarounds and use AI tools to generate and iterate on content.
  • Comfortable working with data visualization tools to turn scientific insights into visual stories.
  • Able to speak credibly to a range of audiences, from ocean scientists to offshore energy operators to shipping fleet managers.
  • Comfortable leading production or creating yourself, whether that means writing scripts, shaping campaigns, or hosting content.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to scientific accuracy.
  • Strategic thinker with a curiosity for metrics, able to learn and iterate based on audience response.
  • Experience working with design and production partners to bring ideas to life.
  • Passionate about making ocean science accessible, engaging, and globally relevant to both Spotter and Wayfinder audiences.
  • Nice to have: experience working with environmental geospatial data.
Estimated Salary Range
  • $80,000 - $115,000
  • The range listed is what we reasonably expect to pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and may be modified in the future. Actual compensation packages are based on several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, experience, and equity package.
Our Approach to AI in the Hiring Process:
At Sofar, we use AI tools in our day-to-day work, and we don't expect our hiring process to be any different. Here's how we think about it:
Applying: Write your own first draft - we want to hear your voice and understand your real experience. AI is fine for refining and polishing, not for generating your story.
Take-home assessments: Complete these on your own unless we've explicitly said otherwise. We'll always be upfront about it when AI is allowed.
Interview prep: Go for it. Use AI to research Sofar, practice your responses, and sharpen your thinking before we meet.
During interviews: This is you. We're a small team and we move fast - live conversations are how we get to know you, and we're genuinely curious how you think in real time.
A note on transparency: We're a lean People team, and we use AI to help with things like drafting job descriptions, preparing interview questions, and candidate communications. We don't use it to make hiring decisions - those are always ours.
The through line: use AI to show more of yourself, not less :)
About Working at Sofar:
Hybrid work: We're a hands-on team building hardware and software that operates in the real world - so being together matters. We ask that most team members are in office at least 70% of the time, though some roles (like field technicians or hardware engineering) may require more. Fully remote roles are designated as such in the job posting.
Visa sponsorship: We do sponsor visas and retain an immigration lawyer to support the process. While we can't guarantee sponsorship for every role or situation, if we make you an offer, we'll make every reasonable effort to make it work.
A note on applying: We mean it when we say we want the strongest people - not the most credentialed ones. If you're excited about this work but don't check every box, please apply anyway. Research consistently shows that underrepresented candidates are more likely to self-select out, and that's a loss for everyone. Sofar operates at the intersection of ocean science, climate, and technology - the problems we're solving are consequential, and the perspectives we bring to them matter. We're actively working to build a team that reflects that.

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