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Ocean Science Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Whoi

Major Gifts Officer

Falmouth, MA

$81K - $105K/yr

WHOI is currently in the public phase of a historic $500 million comprehensive campaign, the largest fundraising campaign in the history of ocean science. This is an exciting opportunity for an ...

Acrnet

Vice President for Ocean Conservation

Boston, MA · On-site

$136 - $180/hr

Staff in the Ocean Conservation program bring deep expertise in law, policy, marine science, and public campaigns. Our record includes helping prevent oil and gas development off New England ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Lowell, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of geology, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy fundamentals, plate tectonics, rock and mineral identification, weathering and erosion, atmospheric processes, climate systems, and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Cambridge, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of geology, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy fundamentals, plate tectonics, rock and mineral identification, weathering and erosion, atmospheric processes, climate systems, and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Boston, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of geology, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy fundamentals, plate tectonics, rock and mineral identification, weathering and erosion, atmospheric processes, climate systems, and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Newton, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of geology, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy fundamentals, plate tectonics, rock and mineral identification, weathering and erosion, atmospheric processes, climate systems, and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Northampton, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of geology, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy fundamentals, plate tectonics, rock and mineral identification, weathering and erosion, atmospheric processes, climate systems, and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Lawrence, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of geology, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy fundamentals, plate tectonics, rock and mineral identification, weathering and erosion, atmospheric processes, climate systems, and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Quincy, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of geology, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy fundamentals, plate tectonics, rock and mineral identification, weathering and erosion, atmospheric processes, climate systems, and ...

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All JobsOcean Science JobsOcean Science Jobs in Massachusetts

Ocean Science information

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.

What are popular job titles related to Ocean Science jobs in Massachusetts?

For Ocean Science jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Ocean Science jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Ocean Science jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Ocean Science job openings:

Ocean Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Science job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 74% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution.

Major Gifts Officer

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Woods Hole, MA • On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is seeking a strategic, relationship-driven Development Director, Major Gifts to manage and grow a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors, with a primary focus on New York City and the broader Tri-State region.
This frontline fundraising role will be responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding individuals capable of making significant philanthropic commitments in support of WHOI's mission. The Development Director will work closely with Advancement colleagues, institutional leadership, scientists, engineers, volunteers, and donors to build meaningful philanthropic partnerships that advance ocean science, technology innovation, education, and solutions for a changing planet.
WHOI is currently in the public phase of a historic $500 million comprehensive campaign, the largest fundraising campaign in the history of ocean science. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced major gifts fundraiser to help expand WHOI's donor base, deepen engagement in a key philanthropic market, and secure transformational support for one of the world's leading ocean research institutions.
The successful candidate will be based within driving distance of Woods Hole, Massachusetts, and will be expected to be onsite regularly. This role also requires travel to the New York/Tri-State region approximately twice per month for donor meetings, events, and related activities, with additional seasonal travel to Florida and other donor markets as needed.
Application Instructions: Please submit a resume and cover letter describing your interest in WHOI and how your experience, skills, and approach to major gifts fundraising would position you for success in this role.
Job Description
Essential Functions & Duties
Major Gift Fundraising & Portfolio Management
  • Manage and grow a portfolio of approximately 125-150 major gift prospects and donors, with a focus on New York City, Connecticut, New Jersey, the Hamptons, and select seasonal markets.
  • Cultivate, solicit, and steward donors capable of making five-, six-, and seven-figure philanthropic commitments.
  • Develop and execute individualized donor strategies that align prospect interests with WHOI's institutional priorities and campaign objectives.
  • Meet or exceed annual goals for fundraising, donor visits, qualifications, solicitations, stewardship, and portfolio management.
  • Identify and qualify new major gift prospects through proactive outreach, relationship building, volunteer engagement, and strategic prospect development.
  • Prepare compelling donor communications, proposals, briefings, and stewardship materials for sophisticated philanthropic audiences.
  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation of donor activity, strategy, and next steps within WHOI's constituent relationship management system.

Donor Engagement & Regional Strategy
  • Serve as a key Advancement representative for WHOI in the New York and broader Tri-State philanthropic communities.
  • Serve as the primary development liaison to WHOI's New York Chapter and its volunteer Steering Committee, building strong and productive relationships with volunteer leaders.
  • Partner with senior leadership, scientists, engineers, and volunteers to design and execute effective cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies.
  • Coordinate meaningful donor engagement opportunities, including individual meetings, small gatherings, institutional events, campaign activities, and mission-focused experiences.
  • Represent WHOI at donor events, regional programs, institutional functions, and other Advancement activities.

Institutional Collaboration & Partnership
  • Collaborate across the Advancement team to ensure donor strategies are coordinated, thoughtful, and aligned with institutional priorities.
  • Partner with Development Events, Advancement Operations, Donor Engagement, and Communications colleagues to support high-quality donor experiences.
  • Use donor insights, prospect research, demographic data, and relationship intelligence to strengthen fundraising strategy and outcomes.
  • Contribute to a collaborative, high-performing Advancement culture focused on excellence, accountability, innovation, and shared success.

Required Experience & Education
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible frontline major gifts fundraising experience, preferably within higher education, science, research, healthcare, cultural, environmental, or other mission-driven nonprofit settings.
  • Demonstrated success cultivating, soliciting, and closing five-, six-, and seven-figure gifts from individual donors.
  • Experience managing a major gift portfolio and using moves management practices to advance donor relationships. Strong understanding of sophisticated philanthropic environments; experience working in or with New York philanthropic networks is strongly preferred.
  • Exceptional relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage, inspire, and influence donors, volunteers, institutional leaders, faculty/scientists, and colleagues.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex ideas into compelling donor-centered messaging.
  • Strong strategic thinking, organizational, and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently and collaboratively.
  • High degree of professionalism, discretion, emotional intelligence, and sound judgment, particularly when working with confidential donor information.
  • Experience using CRM systems, preferably Raiser's Edge/NXT, and proficiency with Microsoft 365.
  • Passion for WHOI's mission and the ability to communicate the urgency, relevance, and impact of ocean science to philanthropic audiences.
  • Willingness and ability to travel regularly, including to the New York/Tri-State region approximately twice per month, and to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed.

Additional Job Requirements
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
This is a hybrid position with regular onsite presence in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, and significant donor-facing travel. The role requires travel throughout the New York/Tri-State region, with additional travel to Florida, the Hamptons, and other donor markets as needed.
This is a moderately sedentary role that may require occasional lifting or carrying of materials up to 25 pounds.
Salary Range: 128,560-150,000
The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package.
WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.
EEO Statement
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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