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Ocean Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sofar Ocean

Staff Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$175K - $222K/yr

You will collaborate with a top-notch team of engineers, ocean scientists and product designers to translate these user needs into high quality software that empowers our users with data to get their ...

Whoi

Major Gifts Officer

Falmouth, MA · On-site

$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 ...

Orchard LLC

Project Manager

Advanced degree in oceanography, marine science, ocean engineering, or related field preferred. * Minimum 10 years of experience in ocean science, technology development, or marine research program ...

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 ...

State of Louisiana

CHEF

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$63K - $87K/yr

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 ...

AtOrchard LLC

Project Manager

Austin, TX · On-site

Advanced degree in oceanography, marine science, ocean engineering, or related field preferred. * Minimum 10 years of experience in ocean science, technology development, or marine research program ...

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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 Jul 16, 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 does an ocean scientist do?

An ocean scientist studies the physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects of the ocean. They conduct research, collect data through fieldwork and laboratory analysis, and use tools like sonar and sampling equipment to understand ocean processes and ecosystems. Their work often involves data analysis, scientific reporting, and collaboration with other researchers to address environmental and climate-related issues.

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.

How much do ocean scientists get paid?

Ocean scientists' salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, but the median annual wage in the field is around $70,000. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced researchers or those with advanced degrees can earn over $100,000. Many ocean scientists work in research institutions, government agencies, or environmental organizations, often requiring specialized skills and fieldwork experience.

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 can you do with an ocean science degree?

An ocean science degree prepares individuals for careers in research, environmental consulting, conservation, and resource management related to marine environments. Graduates can work as marine biologists, oceanographers, environmental analysts, or in policy and education roles, often requiring fieldwork, data analysis, and specialized equipment skills.

What kind of jobs can you get with oceanography?

Oceanography graduates can pursue careers such as marine biologists, oceanographers, marine policy analysts, environmental consultants, and research scientists. These roles often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and the use of specialized equipment like sonar and GIS tools, and may require advanced degrees or certifications depending on the position.

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 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.

More about Ocean Science jobs
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,389 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Staff Software Engineer

Staff Software Engineer

Sofar Ocean

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$175K - $222K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

The Role:
We are looking for a product-driven Staff Software Engineer to join our team as we build a new software product for the maritime transport industry. Our Wayfinder product runs on board the largest shipping vessels in the world, providing critical decision making context for sea captains as they navigate the world's oceans.
You'll need a deep understanding of our customers, their workflows, and critical data they need to operate. You will collaborate with a top-notch team of engineers, ocean scientists and product designers to translate these user needs into high quality software that empowers our users with data to get their work done more efficiently.
Our tech stack includes Typescript and React on the frontend with backend APIs written using Typescript, Express, & Postgres, along with some data processing services written in Python. You will own features across the stack and should be comfortable architecting solutions from data storage layer to UIs. You'll also help work across Sofar's software engineering teams to simplify our stack and build for the future.
About You:
  • Passionate about building a product with a positive impact on the world
  • Passionate about the craft of software engineering. Loves making beautiful, functional interfaces for humans
  • 8+ years experience of professional software development experience.
  • Significant professional experience with modern Typescript and React
  • Curious and experimental in the face of rapid tech change like LLM's
  • Comfortable building in the frontend and backend
  • Owns the full lifecycle of features from conception, development, testing, release, & adoption
  • Clear communicator who enjoys collaborating with other engineers, designers, PMs, and scientists
  • Can rapidly acquire new technical skills and knowledge in a fast-paced, high-delivery environment
  • Excited to be be a part of a small but growing startup team
  • Enjoy mentoring & growing engineers earlier in their technical careers

Estimated Salary Range
  • $175,000 - $222,000
  • 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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