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Oceanographic Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pae

Sr. UEM Ocean Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$111K - $153K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Ocean Engineering or in a relevant Engineering discipline * (10 +) years of collective technical and management experience with U.S. Navy technical programs/projects, marine and ...

Amentum

Sr. UEM Ocean Engineer

Ijamsville, MD · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Ocean Engineering or in a relevant Engineering discipline * (10 +) years of collective technical and management experience with U.S. Navy technical programs/projects, marine and ...

Applied Physical Sciences and General Dynamics

Successful candidates will have a BS degree in ocean engineering or a related field and will focus on building foundational skills and proficiency within their domain. They will be responsible for ...

Pae

Sr. UEM Ocean Engineer

Ijamsville, MD · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Ocean Engineering or in a relevant Engineering discipline * (10 +) years of collective technical and management experience with U.S. Navy technical programs/projects, marine and ...

Applied Physical Sciences and General Dynamics

Successful candidates will have a BS degree in ocean engineering or a related field and will focus on building foundational skills and proficiency within their domain. They will be responsible for ...

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Oceanographic Engineering information

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How much do oceanographic engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for oceanographic engineering in the United States is $33.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.44 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is oceanographic engineering?

Oceanographic engineering is a specialized field that focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of equipment and technology used to explore and study the ocean. Oceanographic engineers work on creating submersibles, underwater sensors, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), buoys, and other instruments to collect data about the marine environment. Their work supports scientific research, environmental monitoring, and marine resource management. Oceanographic engineering combines principles from mechanical, electrical, and environmental engineering, often requiring innovative solutions for challenging underwater conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an oceanographic engineer?

To thrive as an Oceanographic Engineer, you need a solid background in oceanography, marine engineering, and applied mathematics, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in ocean engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, data acquisition systems, and underwater robotics, as well as certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial for collaborating on complex projects at sea. These skills and qualifications are vital for developing innovative solutions and ensuring the safety and success of oceanographic missions.

What are some common challenges faced by oceanographic engineers during fieldwork at sea?

Oceanographic engineers often encounter challenges such as harsh weather conditions, limited access to supplies, and the need for precise coordination with multidisciplinary teams during fieldwork at sea. Equipment deployment and retrieval can be physically demanding and require problem-solving skills when unexpected technical issues arise. Additionally, extended periods away from shore may necessitate adaptability and strong communication skills to ensure successful data collection and collaboration with scientists and vessel crew.

What is the difference between Oceanographic Engineering vs Marine Engineering?

AspectOceanographic EngineeringMarine Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ocean Engineering, Oceanography, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, or Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch vessels, ocean observatories, coastal facilitiesShips, offshore platforms, shipyards
Industry UsageResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental consultanciesShipbuilding, offshore oil & gas, maritime industry

Oceanographic Engineering focuses on studying and understanding ocean systems, often involving research and environmental monitoring. Marine Engineering centers on designing, building, and maintaining ships and offshore structures. While both roles involve working with maritime environments, Oceanographic Engineering emphasizes scientific research, whereas Marine Engineering is more engineering and construction-oriented.

Are oceanographic engineers in demand?

Oceanographic engineers are in steady demand due to the need for expertise in marine environments, climate research, and offshore engineering projects. Employment opportunities are often found in research institutions, government agencies, and private companies involved in renewable energy, underwater exploration, and environmental monitoring, with skills in data analysis, modeling, and specialized equipment being valuable. Job growth can vary based on technological advancements and funding for marine research initiatives.

Do oceanographic engineers make good money?

Oceanographic engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced engineers with specialized skills in data analysis, modeling, or subsea technology can earn higher wages, often supplemented by benefits and opportunities for advancement.

What do oceanographic engineers do?

Oceanographic engineers design and develop equipment and systems to study and explore the ocean environment, including sensors, submersibles, and data collection tools. They often work in research vessels or laboratories, applying engineering principles to solve problems related to oceanography and marine technology.

What jobs can I get with an oceanographic engineering degree?

An oceanographic engineering degree prepares individuals for roles such as ocean engineer, marine systems engineer, or research scientist, often involving designing and maintaining underwater equipment, ships, or offshore structures. These jobs typically require knowledge of fluid dynamics, marine environments, and technical skills with tools like CAD and sonar systems, and may involve fieldwork or laboratory research.
More about Oceanographic Engineering jobs

What states have the most Oceanographic Engineering jobs?

States with the most job openings for Oceanographic Engineering jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Oceanographic Engineering jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Oceanographic Engineering jobs are:

Oceanographic Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oceanographic Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,760 per year, or $33.1 per hour.

Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Ocean Systems

Triton Systems

Chelmsford, MA • On-site

$108K - $143K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Ocean Systems

Company Summary

Triton combines 30+ years of experience with exciting growth and innovation opportunities within product development and R&D space. We support Government and commercial markets by delivering advanced solutions across applications in defense, security, aerospace, energy, environmental sustainability, and human health. Where we see a larger opportunity, we create new companies to scale these solutions into businesses. Our teams thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment where we tackle complex challenges, meet our customers' toughest requirements, and deliver high-impact results on time, on budget and have fun while doing it.

Triton is developing exciting new products for the subsea and ocean environment. We are seeking a hands-on engineer with an interest in ocean systems prototyping and development.

Triton is developing unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), UUV components, unmanned surface craft, submarine systems, wave energy systems, aerial systems, and acoustic systems for the defense and energy sectors. Innovation and technical problem solving with a diverse team of researchers will be a major part of your work life.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead project teams and serve as Principal Investigator on projects where mechanical and systems engineering is critical.
  • Design, build, and test mechanical systems for the ocean environment. Integrate electrical and software systems.
  • Rapidly develop high-quality CAD in SolidWorks for fabrication and manufacturing from concept-level sketches and CAD
  • Formulate and solve analysis problems using available software and resources to support quantitative design. Conduct engineering design reviews.
  • Design & execute experiments and field tests, including in-water field tests. Analyze performance data. Communicate progress and results to the customer.
  • Take responsibility for growing internal capabilities and professionalism in the lab
  • Develop new concepts and write project proposals around your expertise and the company's experience

Basic Qualifications:

  • 4-year degree in Mechanical Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent; MS a plus
  • 10+ years of industry ocean engineering experience
  • Candidates must have demonstrated interest and ability to design, build, and test control systems for machinery and/or robots

Desired Qualifications:

  • Direct experience with listed job responsibilities
  • Hands on experience in a machine shop or other fabrication expertise.
  • Desire to take ownership of all aspects of project success and take a systems engineering mindset
  • Experience designing for the ocean environment, subsea systems, unmanned systems, electric motors, hydraulic systems, propulsion, undersea connectors.
  • Experience with DoD R&D projects, Navy programs, and/or SBIR
  • Familiarity with a wide range of analysis tools for Ocean Engineering.

Due to the nature of our business and information associated with this position, interested candidates must be US Citizens and may be subject to a security investigation.

Come join our success and grow with the strength of these fascinating new technologies. We are looking for individuals with confidence and the right stuff. We offer a competitive salary with full benefits package.

Triton Systems is a U. S. Government contractor; therefore we are required to gather applicant information for Government reporting purposes.

Triton Systems, Inc. Headquarters is located at 330 Billerica Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and we remain committed to hiring and retaining a talented and diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

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