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Oceanographic Engineering Jobs in Washington (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 ...

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Oceanographic Engineering information

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$19

$37

$54

How much do oceanographic engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for oceanographic engineering in Washington is $37.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.95 and $43.27 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.

What are popular job titles related to Oceanographic Engineering jobs in Washington?

For Oceanographic Engineering jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Oceanographic Engineering jobs in Washington are:

Oceanographic Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oceanographic Engineering job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,878 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Sr. UEM Ocean Engineer

Pae

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$111K - $153K/yr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Amentum has an opportunity for a Senior Ocean Engineer to provide technical advisory support for all phases of Magnetic Silencing Facility (MSF) and/or Underwater Electro-magnetic (UEM) System of Interest (SOI) for continued lifecycle support including, but not limited to conceptual design, detailed design, hardware implementation, as-built drawings, site implementation modifications, procurement, integration and testing, test data, reports and retirement. The candidate shall provide Amentum MSF management technical advisory support to include, but not limited to, mechanical, electrical and electromagnetic (EM) systems engineering.

The candidate shall provide Amentum MSF management with UEM technical advice for system lifecycle decision gates and technical milestones including, but not limited to, system requirements review (SRR), system functional review (SFR), preliminary design review (PDR), critical design review (CDR) and test readiness review (TRR) all in support of projects defined by Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division (NSWCCD) Code 75, or other organizations associated with, or sponsors of NSWCCD Code 75.

Minimum Requirements:

  • 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 ocean engineering experience or project of similar scope.

  • Must have an active secret clearance. Note: U.S. Citizenship is required to obtain a secret clearance.

Desired qualifications:

(10+) years of relevant Engineering design support for U.S. Navy underwater electromagnetic (UEM) measurement or equivalent system installations, upgrades, and repairs to include:

  • Quality Control Reviews

  • Design and Component options for UEM systems

  • Advanced Development emergent UEM sensor systems

  • Design and Development of UEM array sensors, power anddata acquisition cables

  • Design Recommendations for new, modified or existing calibrated sources units in validating UEM systems

Compensation Details:

$124,000 - 136,000

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

07/29/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.

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