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Oceanographic Software Engineer Jobs in Baltimore, MD

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Jessup, MD ยท Hybrid

$161K - $222K/yr

Senior Embedded Software Engineer Liquid Robotics is seeking a Senior Embedded / Robotics Software ... Our platforms operate in challenging ocean environments for extended deployments (3+ month missions ...

... Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas ... As a member of the Software Engineering department you'll work in a fast-paced team environment ...

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Oceanographic Software Engineer information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$63.1K

$146.6K

$204.2K

How much do oceanographic software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for oceanographic software engineer in Baltimore, MD is $146,585.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,200.00 and $171,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Oceanographic Software Engineer, you need a strong background in software development, data analysis, and a relevant degree in computer science, engineering, or oceanography. Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or C++, and experience with oceanographic data systems or remote sensing tools are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with scientists and interpret complex datasets. These skills are essential to develop reliable software solutions that advance oceanographic research and ensure accurate, actionable insights from large-scale marine data.

What are some typical challenges faced by oceanographic software engineers when developing software for marine data collection?

Oceanographic Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring software reliability in harsh and unpredictable marine environments, dealing with intermittent connectivity, and integrating diverse sensor data formats. They must also prioritize efficiency and robustness to handle real-time data processing on resource-constrained equipment. Close collaboration with oceanographers, hardware engineers, and data analysts is essential to ensure that the software meets scientific requirements and performs accurately during field deployments.

What is the difference between Oceanographic Software Engineer vs Marine Data Analyst?

AspectOceanographic Software EngineerMarine Data Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Oceanography, Computer Science, or related fields; programming skillsBachelor's or higher in Marine Science, Data Analysis, or related fields; statistical skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, oceanographic institutions, field data collectionData centers, research institutions, environmental agencies
Employer & Industry UsageOceanographic research, environmental monitoring, marine technology companiesMarine research, conservation organizations, government agencies

While both roles involve marine science, Oceanographic Software Engineers focus on developing software for oceanographic data collection and analysis, requiring programming expertise. Marine Data Analysts primarily interpret marine data to inform research and policy, emphasizing statistical and analytical skills. Both roles are vital in marine science but differ in technical focus and daily tasks.

What is an oceanographic software engineer?

Oceanographic Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain software systems used in the study of oceans. They create tools for data collection, analysis, and modeling that help oceanographers understand marine environments. Their work often involves programming, working with sensors or remote instruments, and collaborating with scientists to solve complex problems related to oceanography. These engineers play a crucial role in advancing research and technology in the marine sciences.

What job categories do people searching Oceanographic Software Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Oceanographic Software Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

Infographic showing various Oceanographic Software Engineer job openings in Baltimore, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,585 per year, or $70.5 per hour.

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Liquid Robotics

Jessup, MD โ€ข Hybrid

$161K - $222K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Senior Embedded Software Engineer
Liquid Robotics is seeking a Senior Embedded / Robotics Software Engineer to develop mission-critical software for autonomous maritime robotic systems. This hybrid role is based in the Jessup, MD and reports to our Software Manager. Our platforms operate in challenging ocean environments for extended deployments (3+ month missions), requiring exceptionally reliable and fault tolerant software.
Essential Responsibilities
  • Derive requirements for, design, develop, and maintain reliable embedded software for long-duration autonomous maritime operations (90+ day uptime requirements).
  • Integrate COTS and custom robotic components including servos and actuators, power management systems (batteries, solar charging), satellite radios and maritime communication equipment, and environmental and navigation sensors (GPS, IMU, depth sensors, cameras, acoustic sensors, etc.).
  • Implement fault-tolerant architectures with watchdog systems, automated recovery, and graceful degradation to meet mission uptime and reliability goals.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including systems, mechanical, electrical, quality assurance, production, and product management to ensure integrated system performance.
  • Work within a structured software development lifecycle combining Agile methodologies with V-model validation processes; participate in requirements, design, code reviews, and system integration testing.
  • Develop and maintain device drivers, middleware, and mission code for ARM-based embedded Linux platforms (e.g., NVIDIA Tegra/Jetson, Raspberry Pi) in Debian-based environments.
  • Design for real-time constraints, deterministic behavior on Linux, and power-aware sleep/wake strategies to maximize mission duration.
  • Create and execute Software-In-Loop, Hardware-In-Loop, and on-device test methods; develop CI/CD pipelines, automated tests, and release artifacts to support multiple overlapping product lines.
  • Troubleshoot and root-cause hardware/software interactions; capture diagnostic data and coordinate corrective actions across engineering disciplines.
  • Produce and maintain clear technical documentation including design notes, runbooks, test plans, and procedures.
Key Attributes
  • Deep systems thinker who can analyze, explain, and close the loop from sensors through actuators and human-in-the-loop components.
  • Detail-oriented and methodical with strong software engineering and test discipline.
  • Practical hands-on experience integrating and troubleshooting embedded hardware and sensors in harsh environments.
  • Strong communicator, able to convey complex software and system behaviors to engineering, Manufacturing, and QA.
  • Comfortable working cross-functionally and responding to integration, production, and field deployment priorities.
  • Autonomous, pragmatic, and focused on delivering robust, maintainable solutions for safety- and mission-critical systems.
Minimum Qualifications
  • BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related discipline; advanced degree or technical credentials a plus.
  • 10+ years of professional embedded software architecture, design, and development experience.
  • Proven experience shipping robotic or autonomous systems with long-duration uptime requirements and fault-tolerant architectures.
  • Strong programming and architecture skills in C++ and Java for mission code; Python for tools, scripts, and automation.
  • Deep understanding of Linux system architecture, device drivers, and managing deterministic/real-time behavior on Linux.
  • Experience with serial protocols (RS-232, RS-485), CAN bus, USB, UDP/TCP networks, and satellite communication systems (Iridium, Starlink).
  • Experience with version control (Git), CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and managing complex build systems across product lines.
  • Knowledge of sensor fusion, error correction, and degraded-mode operation strategies.
  • Understanding of power management, thermal constraints, and environmentally robust software design.
  • Experience with power-aware software design, sleep/wake strategies, and long-duration mission planning.
  • Familiarity with Software-In-Loop, Hardware-In-Loop, and on-device testing methodologies.
U.S. Person status required.
Ability to obtain a US Secret Clearance required. Preference given to candidates with active security clearance at time of hire.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, market and business considerations, and the role's geographic location
Summary pay range: $161,600 - $222,200
Liquid Robotics designs and manufactures Wave Gliders, the first wave and solar powered autonomous ocean robots. With our partners we address many of the planet's greatest challenges, by transforming how to assess, monitor, and protect the ocean. We solve critical problems for defense, commercial, and science customers.
Visit us atwww.liquid-robotics.comto learn more.
Liquid Robotics is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.