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$11K

$45.5K

$55K

How much do oceanography jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for oceanography in the United States is $45,479.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an oceanographer do?

Oceanographers study the ocean and its processes, including its physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects. Their work involves researching ocean currents, marine life, ecosystems, ocean-atmosphere interactions, and the impact of human activities on the marine environment. Oceanographers may conduct fieldwork at sea, analyze data in laboratories, and use advanced technology like remote sensing and computer modeling. Their research helps us understand climate change, marine resources, and environmental protection.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an oceanographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Oceanographer, you need a solid background in marine science, mathematics, and data analysis, typically supported by at least a bachelor’s degree in oceanography or a related field, with many roles requiring a master’s or Ph.D. Proficiency with scientific instruments, remote sensing tools, GIS software, and data modeling systems is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help oceanographers excel in both fieldwork and research collaboration. These skills are crucial for accurately studying ocean processes, contributing to scientific understanding, and informing environmental policy.

What are some common challenges oceanographers face when conducting field research?

Oceanographers often encounter logistical and environmental challenges during field research, such as unpredictable weather conditions, equipment malfunctions, and limited access to remote marine locations. Coordinating with interdisciplinary teams and adhering to strict safety protocols are also essential aspects of the job. Despite these obstacles, fieldwork provides valuable data and opportunities for collaboration, making adaptability and problem-solving critical skills for oceanographers.

What is the difference between Oceanography vs Marine Biology?

AspectOceanographyMarine Biology
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in oceanography, marine science, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in marine biology, biology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch vessels, laboratories, field studies across oceansMarine habitats, aquariums, research stations, fieldwork in marine environments
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, research institutionsZoos, aquariums, research institutions, environmental organizations

Oceanography and Marine Biology both focus on marine environments but differ in scope. Oceanography studies the physical, chemical, geological, and biological aspects of oceans, while Marine Biology concentrates specifically on the biology and ecology of marine organisms. Both fields often overlap and require similar credentials, but their work environments and research focuses distinguish them.

Do oceanographers get paid well?

Oceanographers typically earn a median annual salary that varies depending on experience, education, and location, with many earning between $50,000 and $100,000. Advanced roles or those in government and research institutions tend to offer higher compensation, especially for those with specialized skills or advanced degrees. Salary prospects can also be influenced by the level of fieldwork and research involved.

Is oceanography a good career?

Oceanography is a scientific field focused on studying the ocean's physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects. It offers opportunities in research, environmental monitoring, and resource management, often requiring advanced degrees and fieldwork. Job prospects depend on specialization, experience, and geographic location, with competitive salaries in academia, government, and private sectors.

What are careers in oceanography?

Careers in oceanography involve studying the physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects of the ocean. Oceanographers often work in research institutions, government agencies, or environmental organizations, using tools like sonar, sampling equipment, and data analysis software. These roles typically require a bachelor's degree in oceanography or a related field, with advanced positions often needing a master's or Ph.D.

What exactly do oceanographers do?

Oceanographers study the physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects of the ocean. They conduct research using tools like sonar, sampling equipment, and data analysis software, often working in the field or laboratories to understand ocean processes and ecosystems.
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Oceanography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oceanography job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,479 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Lecturer (Oceanography)

Honolulu, HI • On-site

University of Hawaii
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 623 rated colleges and universities

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Part-time

This job post has expired 4 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description Title: Lecturer (Communicating Research Results) Position Number: Pending Hiring Unit: Oceanography, SOEST Location:Manoa Campus Date Posted: July 29, 2026 Closing Date: August 17, 2026 Salary Information: Minimum LA $2,053 per credit hour Full Time/Part Time: Part-time Temporary/Permanent: Temporary Other Conditions: The Department of Oceanography seeks a part-time instructor for the Fall 2026 semester. Non-tenure; temporary; part-time work as needed; and contingent upon student enrollment and availability of funding. Duties and Responsibilities Teach one section of the undergraduate course OCN/GES 490 Communicating Research Results (2 credit hours) Collaborate with the lead instructor to refine and maintain the course syllabus and instructional materials Mentor and assist students in developing written, oral, and visual communication skills to present scientific research Support the lead instructor in timely and consistent grading.

Minimum Qualifications Master's degree and 5 years of working experience in Oceanography, Communications, or related field. Demonstrated experience communicating scientific research to technical and non-technical audiences. Familiarity with scientific writing, oral presentation, and data visualization best practices.

Strong teaching or lecturer skills, including the ability to provide constructive feedback on communication products To Apply: Click on the "Apply" button on the top right corner of the screen to complete an application and attach required documents. Applicants must submit the following: (1) cover letter indicating how you satisfy the minimum and desirable qualifications, (2) curriculum vitae, and (3) name, addresses and contact information of three (3) professional references including e-mail address. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Note: If you have not applied for a position before using NeoGov, you will need to create an account. Inquiries: Zak Bramble, Department of Oceanography, bramblez@hawaii.edu EEO, Clery Act, ADA The University of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Institution and is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment, including on the basis of veteran and disability status. For more information, visit: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/policies/ Employment is contingent on satisfying employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986; reference checks of previous employers; and for certain positions, criminal history record checks

In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, annual campus crime statistics for the University of Hawai'i may be viewed at: https://www.hawaii.edu/titleix/help/campus-security/, or a paper copy may be obtained upon request from the respective UH Campus Security or Administrative Services Office. Accommodation Request: The University of Hawai'i complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the EEO coordinator directly

Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. For further information, please refer to the following link: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/accommodation-request/

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About University of Hawaii

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The University of Hawaii, located in Honolulu, HI, US, is an internationally recognized institution of higher learning. Spanning across ten campuses, including one online university, it represents the public system of higher education in the state of Hawaii. Established in 1907, the university operates in the educational services industry, its mission rooted in quality and affordable education for all. It offers over 600 different study programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in a broad spectrum of disciplines. Some of its unrivaled specialties encompass tropical agriculture, tropical medicine, oceanography, astronomy, electrical engineering, volcanology, and Pacific Islands and Asian area studies.

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Honolulu, HI, US

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1907

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