1

Biological Oceanography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate III

Clark, SD · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Job Summary The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Associate III to study biological processes involved in ocean carbon flux attenuation ...

New

Biological Technician

$38K - $47K/yr

Technicians collect and process biological samples and environmental data during fishery ... Operate electronic data acquisition systems for fisheries and oceanographic sampling. * Assist with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

biological oceanography information

See salary details

$31K

$42.1K

$56K

How much do biological oceanography jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for biological oceanography in the United States is $42,105.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $46,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a biological oceanography?

A Biological Oceanography job involves studying marine organisms, their interactions with the environment, and how they respond to changes in ocean conditions. Professionals in this field conduct research on topics like ocean ecosystems, plankton dynamics, and the impact of climate change on marine life. They often work in academia, government agencies, or environmental organizations, collecting and analyzing data from ocean expeditions, laboratory experiments, and computer models.

What does a biological oceanographer do?

A typical workday for a Biological Oceanographer can vary depending on the project phase but often involves a mix of laboratory analysis, data processing, and report writing when on land. During fieldwork, days may start early and include collecting water or biological samples from research vessels, deploying sensors, and monitoring marine life in various oceanic conditions. Collaboration is common, as you'll work closely with other scientists, technicians, and sometimes policy makers to interpret data and share findings. Flexibility and adaptability are important since research priorities can shift due to weather, funding, or emerging discoveries. This dynamic environment provides the opportunity to contribute meaningful insights into ocean ecosystems and to advance within academic, governmental, or private research organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biological oceanographer?

To thrive in Biological Oceanography, you need a strong background in marine biology, ecology, and chemistry, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a master's or Ph.D. in oceanography or a related field. Proficiency with specialized software for data analysis (like R or MATLAB), laboratory techniques, and oceanographic field equipment (such as CTDs or plankton nets) is often required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills are essential to interpreting findings and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These abilities are critical for successfully conducting research, publishing results, and informing environmental policy or conservation efforts.

How much do biological oceanographers get paid?

Biological oceanographers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with advanced degrees, research experience, and positions in government or private sectors, often involving fieldwork and laboratory analysis.

Is biological oceanography a high paying job?

Biological oceanographers typically earn moderate to high salaries depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced professionals with advanced degrees and research skills can earn higher salaries, especially in government or private sector roles. Overall, it is considered a well-paying scientific career compared to many other research fields.
More about biological oceanography jobs

What cities are hiring for Biological Oceanography jobs?

Cities with the most Biological Oceanography job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Biological Oceanography jobs?

The most popular types of Biological Oceanography jobs are:

What states have the most Biological Oceanography jobs?

States with the most job openings for Biological Oceanography jobs include:

Infographic showing various Biological Oceanography job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,105 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Tenure-Track: Assistant Professor - Biological Oceanography

Texas A&M University

College Station, TX • On-site

$90 - $140/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Texas A&M University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Tenure-Track: Assistant Professor - Biological Oceanography Oceanography Location

College Station, Tx

Open Date

7/27/2026

Position ID

187591

Description

The Department of Oceanography in the College of Arts and Sciences at Texas A&M University is seeking applications for one full-time tenure-track faculty position with a 9-month academic appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor. This position has an anticipated start date of August 1, 2027. We welcome applications from individuals with broad interests in Biological Oceanography, including but not limited to those studying marine organism influence on global biogeochemical cycles, phytoplankton ecology and biogeography, blue economy (e.g., bioprospecting), life in extreme environments, and carbon sequestration, with special interest in researchers who can connect multiple trophic levels.

The successful applicant will be expected to develop and maintain an independent, externally-funded research program; teach courses in the Department of Oceanography at the graduate and undergraduate levels; advise and mentor graduate and undergraduate students; participate in departmental and college activities; and serve the discipline of oceanography. The Department of Oceanography, located in College Station, Texas, is part of an alliance of Ocean Sciences that includes the Marine Sciences and Marine Biology Departments at TAMU Galveston, the Geochemical and Environmental Research Group, the Scientific Ocean Drilling Coordination Office (SODCO) and Gulf Coast Repository, the Gulf of AmericaCoastal Ocean Observing System, and Texas Sea Grant. This alliance of Ocean Sciences represents a unique concentration of educational and research resources. Texas A&M University is a land-, sea-, and space-grant university, with a dynamic and international community of over 250,000 people. Information about the Department of Oceanography can be found at:https://ocean.tamu.edu/ .

The University is aware that attracting and retaining exceptional faculty often depends on meeting the needs of two careers and therefore implements policies that contribute to work-life balance, including the Dual-Career Program.

Qualifications

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Oceanography or related field at the time of appointment. Postdoctoral experience is desirable but is not required. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required.

  • Personal statement for the candidate's philosphy and plans for research (3 pages), teaching (2 pages) and service as applicable.
  • Names and contact information for three references

Informal inquiries or requests for more information may be sent via email to the Search Committee Chair: Dr. Jason Sylvan at jasonsylvan@tamu.edu . Applications will be reviewed beginning on 25 September 2026, but the position will remain open until filled.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer. The University is aware that attracting and retaining exceptional faculty often depends on meeting the needs of two careers and therefore has a Dual Career Program .

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What Texas A&M University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom