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Oceanographic Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Foth

Lead Coastal Engineer

Jupiter, FL · On-site

$100K - $132K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Civil, Ocean, or Coastal Engineering or related engineering degree from an EAC/ABET accredited program * 10+ years of coastal engineering experience in the areas of feasibility ...

Foth

Lead Coastal Engineer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Civil, Ocean, or Coastal Engineering or related engineering degree from an EAC/ABET accredited program * 10+ years of coastal engineering experience in the areas of feasibility ...

L3 Harris

Lead, Ocean Engineer

Palm Bay, FL · On-site

$87K - $115K/yr

Job Title: Lead, Ocean Engineer Job Code: 38037 Job Location: Palm Bay, FL Job Schedule: 9/80 ... In this role, you will provide program support and technical leadership across the full engineering ...

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Oceanographic Engineering information

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How much do oceanographic engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

In the field of oceanographic engineering, senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in areas like subsea systems or offshore technology can reach or exceed a $300,000 annual salary. High-level roles often require leadership, project management, and expertise with complex instrumentation or environmental modeling.

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, and why are they important?

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 do oceanographic engineers do?

Oceanographic engineers design and develop equipment and systems to study and explore the ocean environment, including sensors, underwater vehicles, 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 oceanography degree?

An oceanography degree can lead to careers such as oceanographic researcher, marine scientist, environmental consultant, or marine technician. These roles often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and use of specialized equipment like sonar and sampling tools, and may require relevant certifications or advanced degrees for certain positions.

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.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

In engineering fields, senior roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain specialized software engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees. Compensation varies by industry, location, and company size.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,760 per year, or $33.1 per hour.
Lead Coastal Engineer

Lead Coastal Engineer

Foth

Jupiter, FL • On-site

$100K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Foth is a 100% member-owned science and engineering consulting firm headquartered in Wisconsin, with over 85 years of success. Our 750 members across 33 locations are dedicated to solving our clients’ toughest science and engineering challenges. Consistently ranked by Engineering News Record in the top 150 firms, we offer a values-based, collaborative, and flexible work environment with professional growth opportunities. If you thrive working alongside a smart and caring team, Foth may be the place for you.
Join our team and experience the Foth difference that contributes to our impressive 92+% member retention rate! Learn more at foth.com/careers. 


Foth is looking for a Lead Coastal Engineer will lead and execute complex coastal and waterfront projects, including beach nourishment, shoreline stabilization, and coastal analysis efforts. This role is highly technical and collaborative, involving numerical modeling, data analysis, design calculations, and development of reports and construction documents, while translating complex findings into clear insights for clients and stakeholders. You will take ownership of projects from inception through delivery - coordinating resources, supporting permitting and construction efforts, mentoring junior staff, and serving as a client-facing technical expert. 

This position is intended to be based in our Jacksonville, FL office, with consideration for candidates in the Palm Beach County area, with a future in-office expectation.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Lead with Expertise: Take the helm as lead your team on diverse waterfront and coastal projects, guiding client interaction, design, and execution with your knowledge and creativity
  • Innovate and Implement: Stay ahead of the curve by identifying and implementing cutting-edge design and engineering technologies that set new industry standards
  • Analyze and Design: Use your skills to perform intricate calculations and analyses, crafting and reviewing design drawings for a variety of beach nourishment and shoreline stabilization projects
  • Drive Projects to Success: Collaborate with Project Managers to oversee project lifecycles, ensuring budgets, schedules, and quality standards are met
  • Craft and Contribute: Develop comprehensive analytical and construction documents and contribute to Foth's growing technical library in coastal engineering
  • Engage and Expand: Play a pivotal role in client relations and business development, from crafting compelling proposals to nurturing lasting relationships.  Communicate complex topics to non-technical stakeholders effectively
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil, Ocean, or Coastal Engineering or related engineering degree from an EAC/ABET accredited program
  • 10+ years of coastal engineering experience in the areas of feasibility, design, and/or construction management
  • Professional Engineer license (or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire)
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master’s degree in Coastal or Oceanographic Engineering from an EAC/ABET-accredited program
  • 10+ years of experience, preferably within a coastal engineering consultancy
  • Experience integrating engineering and environmental sciences across coastal projects
  • Experience preparing project deliverables, including scopes of work, cost proposals, procurement responses (RFQs/RFPs), construction documents (plans and specifications), and technical reports
  • Experience with construction processes, field and construction inspection, and contract management for coastal projects such as beach nourishment, shoreline stabilization, coastal structures, and dredging/disposal
  • Proficiency in numerical modeling and coastal analysis tools (e.g., Delft3D, MIKE21/DHI, SMS, ADCIRC, XBeach, UNIBEST, SWAN) and mapping/design software (e.g., AutoCAD, MATLAB, Python, ArcGIS, Grapher, Surfer)
  • Experience leading geotechnical investigations and designing sand borrow areas for beach renourishment
  • Demonstrated success navigating State and Federal regulatory processes, including permitting, compliance, and funding grant applications (including post-storm disaster assessments)
  • Experience developing and presenting technical work at conferences or professional seminars
All Foth Companies are equal opportunity employers, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. Qualified women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. All locations are tobacco-free.  Subject to applicable state law, all applicants who have received a written offer of employment and a copy of Foth’s Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace Program Policy, will be required to undergo testing for commonly abused controlled substances. Applicants must complete the required drug testing within two business days of offer acceptance.  Foth will pay for all drug testing, which will be conducted by a licensed independent medical laboratory that follows testing requirements in accordance with applicable state law.
 
Colorado Residents: In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
 
Notice to Third Party Recruiters/Agencies: Foth does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiting firms. Absent a signed recruiting agreement coordinated through Foth, Foth reserves the right to pursue and hire candidates without financial obligation to third party recruiters or agencies.
 
Artificial Intelligence: Foth uses artificial intelligence and other technology-assisted tools in connection with parts of our recruiting and hiring process, including to assist with reviewing application materials, identifying potentially qualified candidates, sourcing candidates, and supporting interview preparation.  These tools are used to support, but do not replace, human decision-making, and all employment decisions are made by qualified human reviewers.  Where required by law, we will provide additional information regarding the use of these tools, and applicants may contact us with questions or request reasonable accommodation regarding their use.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.