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Submarine Engineering Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN

Bremerton, WA · On-site +1

$62K - $108K/yr

... submarines). * You will apply different established methods, procedures, and techniques to ... engineering procedures or work methods to identify operational problems or work control ...

ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN

Bremerton, WA · On-site +1

$83K - $130K/yr

... or submarine system repair, overhaul or maintenance projects. FOR GS-11: Your resume must ... Engineering Technical Series 0802 (opm.gov) Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience ...

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Submarine Engineering information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$37K

$71.7K

$108.7K

How much do submarine engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for submarine engineering in Seattle, WA is $71,670.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is submarine engineering?

Submarine engineering is a specialized field of engineering focused on the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of submarines and other underwater vehicles. It involves multiple disciplines such as mechanical, electrical, and marine engineering, as well as knowledge of hydrodynamics, materials science, and advanced navigation systems. Submarine engineers work to ensure that submarines are safe, efficient, and capable of performing their required missions, whether for military, research, or commercial purposes. This field requires strong technical skills and an understanding of how to operate in challenging underwater environments.

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

To thrive as a Submarine Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical, electrical, or marine engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and security clearance. Familiarity with specialized design software (like AutoCAD or SolidWorks), knowledge of submarine systems, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) are typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help engineers collaborate effectively in high-pressure, safety-critical environments. These competencies are vital to ensuring the reliability, safety, and performance of complex submarine systems.

What are some common challenges faced by engineers working in submarine engineering projects?

Engineers in submarine engineering often face challenges related to designing systems that can withstand extreme underwater pressures and limited space. They must also ensure that all components are highly reliable and maintainable, as access for repairs is restricted once the vessel is submerged. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including electrical, mechanical, and software engineers, is essential to integrate complex systems such as propulsion, navigation, and life support. Adhering to strict safety and regulatory standards is another key aspect of the role.

What is the difference between Submarine Engineering vs Marine Engineering?

AspectSubmarine EngineeringMarine Engineering
CredentialsEngineering degree, specialized training in submarine systemsEngineering degree, marine systems certification
Work EnvironmentUnderwater, confined spaces, naval or defense settingsShips, ports, offshore platforms, commercial vessels
Industry UsageNaval defense, submarine design, underwater technologyCommercial shipping, shipbuilding, offshore energy

Submarine Engineering focuses on designing, maintaining, and operating underwater vessels specifically submarines, often within defense or research sectors. Marine Engineering covers a broader range of maritime vessels and systems, including ships and offshore platforms. While both roles require engineering credentials and involve maritime environments, submarine engineering is specialized for underwater, confined spaces, and defense applications, whereas marine engineering is more diverse in ship types and commercial industries.

How much do submarine engineers make?

Submarine engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of certification. They often work in specialized environments requiring knowledge of naval systems, propulsion, and safety protocols.

What kind of engineers work on submarines?

Submarine engineering involves various engineers such as mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, systems engineers, and nuclear engineers, depending on the submarine's design and propulsion system. These engineers work on designing, maintaining, and improving submarine systems, often requiring specialized certifications and knowledge of marine environments and safety protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Submarine Engineering jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Submarine Engineering jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Submarine Engineering jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Submarine Engineering jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Submarine Engineering job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,670 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

$83K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

You will serve as an ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN in the Structural Engineering Branch, Ocean Engineering Department, of PSNS and IMF.Qualifications:FOR GS-12: Your resume must 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: providing technical engineering services including job planning, material research and procurement, or developing technical instructions for ship or submarine system repair, overhaul or maintenance projects.
FOR GS-11: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the (GS-10) grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: providing technical engineering services including analyzing work flow, material procurement, and technical instructions to identify issues and develop or modify work methods or procedures for ship or submarine system repair, overhaul, or maintenance projects.
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
IOR: Engineering Technical Series 0802 (opm.gov)
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:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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