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Underwater Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sr Electronics Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$114K - $141K/yr

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in embedded electronics, power systems, underwater hardware challenges, and a passion for precision engineering in mission-critical environments. Key ...

Sr Robotics Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$114K - $149K/yr

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in embedded electronics, power systems, underwater hardware challenges, and a passion for precision engineering in mission-critical environments. Key ...

Mechanical Engineer

Silverdale, WA · On-site

$65K - $107K/yr

Responsibilities include but are not limited to: * Assist senior engineers in the design ... Conduct research and gather data to support project requirements pertaining to underwater acoustics ...

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Sonar System Engineer

West Wareham, MA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

... underwater sonar systems for applications involving seabed survey, target detection, object ... Collaborate with real-time code developers and modeling/simulation analysts to develop and ...

Project DevOps Engineer

Hanover, MD

$52.50 - $72/hr

... s Engineer serves as a core member of the Oceaneering Technologies (OTECH) software group. This ... OTECH produces and maintains unique underwater systems - typically for US Navy and other US ...

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Underwater Engineer information

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$19.5K

$94.6K

$184.5K

How much do underwater engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for underwater engineer in the United States is $94,629.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $129,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of underwater engineer?

The average salary of an underwater engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled professionals with certifications in diving and underwater construction tend to earn higher wages, especially in offshore or specialized environments.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior specialized engineers such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain software engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or leadership roles. Underwater engineers, who work in subsea environments often requiring advanced certifications and technical expertise, typically have salaries that vary based on experience and project scope but can reach or exceed this level in senior positions or specialized fields.

What is an Underwater Engineer job?

An Underwater Engineer designs, builds, and maintains structures and systems in underwater environments. They work on projects such as offshore oil rigs, underwater pipelines, subsea telecommunications, and marine infrastructure. Their duties often involve diving to inspect equipment, using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and applying specialized engineering principles to ensure structures withstand underwater conditions. These engineers typically have a background in civil, mechanical, or marine engineering and may require diving certifications for hands-on tasks.

What engineers work underwater?

Underwater engineers, such as marine or subsea engineers, design, develop, and maintain underwater systems like pipelines, cables, and offshore structures. They often work in environments requiring specialized skills, certifications, and knowledge of underwater tools and safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Underwater Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underwater Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering disciplines (such as civil, mechanical, or marine engineering), along with specialized knowledge in underwater construction and repair, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and commercial diver certification. Familiarity with tools like remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), underwater welding equipment, and sonar imaging systems is crucial for handling technical underwater tasks safely and efficiently. Excellent problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills, as projects often involve coordinating with multidisciplinary teams in challenging environments. These abilities ensure the safety, success, and reliability of complex underwater projects in areas such as offshore construction, inspection, and maintenance.

What are some typical work environments and team structures for Underwater Engineers?

Underwater Engineers commonly work in dynamic settings that include offshore platforms, underwater construction sites, and shipyards, often splitting time between fieldwork and office-based project planning. Teams are typically multidisciplinary, collaborating with marine biologists, construction specialists, safety officers, and vessel crews to ensure project goals are met safely and efficiently. Daily responsibilities may involve underwater inspections, equipment setup and maintenance, and real-time troubleshooting, both above and below the water. The collaborative and technical nature of the work fosters strong teamwork and clear communication, making adaptability and a proactive attitude valuable in this role.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level responsibilities.
More about Underwater Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Underwater Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Underwater Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Underwater Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Underwater Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Underwater Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Underwater Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Underwater Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $94,629 per year, or $45.5 per hour.
Senior Systems Engineer - Unmanned Underwater Vehicles

Senior Systems Engineer - Unmanned Underwater Vehicles

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc

Quincy, MA • On-site

$109K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 189 rated software companies


Job description

Basic Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering or Mathematics field, plus a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree, plus 6 months of relevant experience.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Department of Defense Secret security clearance is required at time of hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.
Responsibilities for this Position
ROLE AND POSITION OBJECTIVES:
The Autonomous Maritime Platforms Systems Engineering team is looking for a systems design engineer with Undersea Vehicle experience to join our cross functional team responsible for the development, implementation, and testing of advanced autonomous systems. As a senior systems design engineer, you will be given tasks and assignments of increasing responsibility to continue supporting your growth and development as a systems engineer, while providing meaningful progress to mission critical programs.
We encourage you to apply if you have any of these preferred skills or experiences:
  • Strong background in the Undersea Domain and Systems engineer process, concepts, and principles
  • Knowledge of autonomous/unmanned undersea vehicles (AUV/UUVs) technologies, principles, theories and concepts, as well as practical experience
  • Experience with other unmanned/autonomous vehicles, underwater vehicles, robotics, or military technology
  • Design experience including development of drawings, specifications, and/or prototypes
  • Experience working with government/Navy organizations, and/or vendor management experience
  • Proficiency with Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices and tools
  • Modeling and Simulation experience using programs such as MATLAB, MagicDraw/Cameo System Modeler (CSM), and/or OrcaFlex
  • Experience or desire to work in a fast-paced, agile environment designing cutting edge technology

What sets you apart:
  • Clear understanding of systems engineering concepts, principles, theories, and technical standards
  • Clear understanding of requirements management and system modeling tools
  • Creative thinker with ability to grasp and apply new information quickly and handle increasing responsibilities with growing complexity
  • Team player who thrives in collaborative environments and revels in team success
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development for yourself and others
  • Identifies opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation

Our Commitment to You:
  • An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
  • Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation's security
  • Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
  • Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
  • See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:
This position is fully on-site or Hybrid/Flex.
While on-site, you will be a part of the Quincy, MA facility [Our Quincy, MA Office - General Dynamics Mission Systems]
#LI-Hybrid
Salary Note
This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
Combined Salary Range
USD $109,692.00 - USD $121,689.00 /Yr.
Company Overview
General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!
Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

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