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Physical Oceanographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ventus Solutions

Oceanographer

Newport, RI · On-site

You will possess extensive knowledge of physical oceanography, environmental modeling, and the operational impacts of ocean conditions on naval sensors, platforms, and mission effectiveness. This ...

Ventus Solutions

Oceanographer

Newport, RI · On-site

You will possess extensive knowledge of physical oceanography, environmental modeling, and the operational impacts of ocean conditions on naval sensors, platforms, and mission effectiveness. This ...

Ventus Solutions

Oceanographer

Newport, RI

You will possess extensive knowledge of physical oceanography, environmental modeling, and the operational impacts of ocean conditions on naval sensors, platforms, and mission effectiveness. This ...

Ventus Solutions

Oceanographer

Newport, RI · On-site

You will possess extensive knowledge of physical oceanography, environmental modeling, and the operational impacts of ocean conditions on naval sensors, platforms, and mission effectiveness. This ...

ECS

Atmospheric/Ocean Scientist

MS · On-site

MS in Atmospheric Physical, Physical Oceanography, or other earth science. * Must be able to obtain a Public Trust clearance. * 2 years experience in analyzing meteorological and oceanographic ...

U.S. Navy

Oceanography Officer (Reserve)

Redding, CA

Oceanography and Meteorology Officers eventually earn a dual master's degree in meteorology and physical oceanography at Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in Monterey, CA. There are opportunities to ...

U.S. Navy

Oceanography Officer (Reserve)

Bozeman, MT · On-site

Oceanography and Meteorology Officers eventually earn a dual master's degree in meteorology and physical oceanography at Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in Monterey, CA. There are opportunities to ...

U.S. Navy

Oceanography Officer (Reserve)

Seattle, WA · On-site

Oceanography and Meteorology Officers eventually earn a dual master's degree in meteorology and physical oceanography at Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in Monterey, CA. There are opportunities to ...

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Physical Oceanographer information

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$44K

$81.5K

$151K

How much do physical oceanographer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical oceanographer in the United States is $81,521.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do physical oceanographers make good money?

Physical oceanographers typically earn a median salary ranging from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced degrees, research skills, and experience with modeling tools can lead to higher compensation, especially in government or research institutions.

What are the typical collaborative projects or teams that a physical oceanographer works with?

Physical Oceanographers often collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including marine biologists, climate scientists, engineers, and remote sensing specialists. They may work together on research cruises, data modeling projects, or instrument deployment in the field. These collaborations are essential for integrating physical ocean data with broader environmental studies, ensuring comprehensive insights into ocean systems. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as joint efforts often lead to impactful scientific discoveries and publications.

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

To thrive as a Physical Oceanographer, you need a strong background in oceanography, physics, mathematics, and data analysis, typically supported by an advanced degree in oceanography or a related field. Familiarity with oceanographic instruments, remote sensing technologies, and software for data modeling and statistical analysis is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial for collaborating with research teams and presenting findings. These skills enable precise data collection, interpretation, and dissemination, which are vital for advancing our understanding of ocean processes and addressing environmental challenges.

What does a physical oceanographer do?

A Physical Oceanographer studies the physical conditions and processes of the ocean, such as currents, waves, tides, and the interactions between the ocean and the atmosphere. They use instruments and computer models to observe and predict oceanic phenomena. Their work helps us understand climate change, weather patterns, and marine ecosystems, and is vital for navigation, coastal management, and resource exploration. Physical Oceanographers often work for research institutions, universities, government agencies, or environmental organizations.

Are physical oceanographers in high demand?

Physical oceanographers are in moderate demand, primarily in research institutions, government agencies, and environmental consulting firms. Employment opportunities depend on funding for oceanographic research, climate studies, and marine resource management, with skills in data analysis, modeling, and fieldwork being highly valued.

What is the difference between Physical Oceanographer vs Marine Geophysicist?

AspectPhysical OceanographerMarine Geophysicist
CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Oceanography, Marine Science, or related fieldsMaster's or PhD in Geophysics, Earth Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch vessels, ocean observatories, laboratoriesSeismic survey ships, research vessels, laboratories
Industry UsageAcademic, government agencies, research institutionsOil & gas, mineral exploration, academic research
Job FocusOcean currents, waves, climate interactionsSeismic data, Earth's subsurface structures

Physical Oceanographers study ocean dynamics like currents and waves, often working in research and academic settings. Marine Geophysicists focus on Earth's subsurface using seismic data, mainly in exploration industries. While both roles involve ocean-related sciences, their focus areas, credentials, and work environments differ significantly.

More about Physical Oceanographer jobs
What cities are hiring for Physical Oceanographer jobs? Cities with the most Physical Oceanographer job openings:
What states have the most Physical Oceanographer jobs? States with the most job openings for Physical Oceanographer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Physical Oceanographer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Physical Oceanographer jobs are:
Physical Oceanographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physical Oceanographer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,521 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

INTERDISCIPLINARY PHYSICAL SCIENTIST/OCEANOGRAPHER

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Stennis Space Center, MS • On-site

$89K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 537 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

You will serve as a INTERDISCIPLINARY PHYSICAL SCIENTIST/OCEANOGRAPHER in the OCEAN INSTRUMENTATION BRANCH, DATA COLLECTION DIVISION, OCEANOGRAPHIC DEPARTMENT of NAVOCEANO BAY ST LOUISQualifications:In addition to the Basic Requirements for this position, your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-11 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
Experience of the concepts, theories, principles, and practices of Physical Oceanography data processing and validation. Experience of shipboard physical oceanographic instrumentation and data collection techniques. experience with computer software used to collect, process or manage physical oceanographic data. Experience coordinating with external professionals and internal scientific and IT department representatives in support of physical oceanographic data collection and processing applications.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/#url=List-by-Occupational-Series
1301
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/general-physical-science-series-1301/
1360
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/oceanography-series-1360/
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.Education:Applicants must meet the following positive education qualifications requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualifications Standards Manual: Applicants must possess:
General Physical Science Series, 1301
Individual Occupational Requirements
Basic Requirements:
  1. Degree: physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics.
or
  1. Combination of education and experience -- education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

Oceanography Series 1360
Individual Occupational Requirements
Basic Requirements:
  1. Degree: major study of at least 24 semester hours in oceanography or a related discipline such as physics, meteorology, geophysics, mathematics, chemistry, engineering, geology, or biology, plus 20 additional semester hours in any combination of oceanography, physics, geophysics, chemistry, mathematics, meteorology, computer science, and engineering sciences.
or
  1. Combination of education and experience -- course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Applicants who qualify on the basis of major study in biology or geology must have had at least 6 semester hours in the major directly concerned with marine science or 6 semester hours in oceanography; applicants who qualify on the basis of other physical sciences or engineering must have had differential and integral calculus and at least 6 semester hours in physics.
There is no education substitution for this grade.
NOTE: College Transcripts from and Accredited University MUST be submitted by ALL who apply to support Basic Education Requirement as met.Employment Type: OTHER

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