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Oceanographic Engineering Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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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 20, 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:

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.

Principal or Sr. Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer-Annapolis,Maryland

NORTHROP GRUMMAN

Dunkirk, MD

$108K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

89th of 542 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: SCI
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Join Northrop Grumman on our continued mission to push the boundaries of possible across land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace. Enjoy a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real-life solutions to our world's biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today.
The Naval & Oceanic Systems business unit headquartered in Annapolis, MD is seeking dependable individuals willing to work in a collaborative environment and that are interested in expanding their horizons. The Mechanical Engineering Department is seeking a Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer or Senior Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals.
Essential Functions:
This position tasking includes concept development, problem solving, structural analysis, technical planning, design development and integration & testing of undersea hardware. The applicant will translate customer requirements into systems solutions that acknowledge technical, schedule, and cost constraints.
The candidate must be able to collaborate in a team environment, prioritize and adjust tasks to accomplish the project result, prioritize multiple responsibilities and/or accomplishing them simultaneously, and comprehend and analyze complex problems and develop solutions. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required.
This position can be filled at a Principal or Senior Principal level.
Basic Qualifications Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer:
  • BS degree in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering, Ocean Engineering or equivalent STEM) and a minimum of 5 years of experience or MS degree with 3 years of experience.
  • Proficiency in using common engineering design, production, analysis, and office tools.
  • Experience with Finite Element Analysis tools, bolted joint analysis, and structural hand calculations
  • Ability to work on site at Annapolis, MD campus.
  • US citizen with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI and pass a polygraph.

Basic Qualifications Senior Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer:
  • BS degree in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering, Ocean Engineering or equivalent STEM) and a minimum of 8 years of experience or MS degree with 6 years of experience.
  • Proficiency in using common engineering design, production, analysis, and office tools.
  • Experience with Finite Element Analysis tools, bolted joint analysis, and structural hand calculations
  • Ability to work on site at Annapolis, MD campus.
  • US citizen with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI and pass a polygraph.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Able to work in a fast-paced environment where multiple projects are being developed and deployed simultaneously.
  • Proficiency in using Finite Element Analysis tools (ANSYS, FEMAP/Nastran), bolted joint analysis, and structural hand calculations.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance.

NGFeaturedJobs
Primary Level Salary Range: $108,800.00 - $163,200.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939