The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ocean Exploration offers a wide range of career opportunities for students, recent graduates, early-career professionals, and experienced scientists interested in ocean science, marine technology, environmental research, and exploration.
Whether you’re seeking a federal career, an internship, a fellowship, or opportunities aboard NOAA research vessels, NOAA provides multiple pathways to contribute to ocean discovery, conservation, and scientific innovation.
About NOAA Ocean Exploration
NOAA Ocean Exploration leads efforts to explore and understand the world’s oceans through scientific research, advanced technologies, and strategic partnerships.
The organization supports careers across numerous disciplines, including marine science, engineering, communications, education, archaeology, data analysis, and program management.
Career Opportunities
NOAA Ocean Exploration recruits professionals in areas such as:
- Marine Biology
- Oceanography
- Maritime Archaeology
- Data Analysis
- Program Management
- Communications
- Education and Outreach
- Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Technology Development
Federal Employment
Federal positions are advertised through the USAJOBS recruitment platform.
These positions may include careers in:
- Ocean Science
- Marine Research
- Environmental Policy
- Scientific Analysis
- Project Management
- Technical Operations
At the time of publication, NOAA Ocean Exploration reports that there are currently no federal positions available. Interested applicants are encouraged to monitor future vacancies.
Contractor Opportunities
NOAA also works with contractors supporting its ocean exploration mission.
Career opportunities may be available through partner organizations such as:
- University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR)
- Groundswell
These organizations recruit professionals for technical, scientific, and operational support roles.
NOAA Corps and Professional Mariners
Individuals interested in serving aboard NOAA’s fleet of research ships and aircraft can explore opportunities through the NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO).
Career pathways include:
- NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps
- Professional Mariners
- Ship Operations
- Marine Engineering
- Navigation
- Aviation Support
Expedition Personnel
Expedition personnel supporting NOAA Ocean Exploration missions are recruited through the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute (OECI) and other partner organizations.
These opportunities support scientific expeditions and marine research activities.
Internships and Fellowships
Students and recent graduates can explore NOAA’s internship and fellowship opportunities through NOAA’s Student Opportunities programmes.
These opportunities provide practical experience in:
- Marine Science
- Ocean Exploration
- Environmental Research
- Technology
- Data Science
- Public Outreach
Interested applicants can contact NOAA’s Internship Coordinator for additional information regarding student opportunities.
NOAA Career Resources
NOAA offers several resources to help prospective applicants explore careers, including:
- NOAA Career Information
- USAJOBS Federal Employment
- Student Opportunities
- Marine Science Career Resources
Partner Organizations
NOAA collaborates with several organizations that regularly recruit professionals in marine science and ocean exploration.
These include:
- Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute (OECI)
- Ocean Exploration Trust
- National Marine Sanctuary Foundation
- Schmidt Ocean Institute
These organizations frequently advertise research, engineering, technology, and expedition opportunities.
Ocean Science Job Boards
Professionals interested in marine and environmental careers can also explore specialized job boards, including:
- NOAA Sea Grant Job Openings
- American Geophysical Union Career Center
- Blue Jobs Board
- Coastal & Estuarine Research Federation (CERF)
- Conservation Jobs Board
- Earth Science Women’s Network
- Marine Technology Society Career Center
- Schmidt Marine Job Board
- The Oceanography Society Job Board
- Underwater Archaeology and Maritime History Job Board
Who Should Apply?
NOAA career opportunities are suitable for:
- Students
- Recent Graduates
- Marine Scientists
- Oceanographers
- Environmental Scientists
- Engineers
- Data Analysts
- Communications Specialists
- Maritime Professionals
- Archaeologists
- Technologists
Why Work with NOAA?
Working with NOAA offers opportunities to:
- Contribute to global ocean exploration.
- Advance marine science and environmental research.
- Support conservation of marine ecosystems.
- Work with cutting-edge scientific technologies.
- Participate in research expeditions.
- Collaborate with leading scientists and engineers.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should:
- Monitor USAJOBS for federal vacancies.
- Check contractor websites for support positions.
- Explore NOAA OMAO careers for shipboard and aviation opportunities.
- Review internship and fellowship opportunities through NOAA Student Opportunities.
- Monitor partner organizations for expedition and research vacancies.
Current Recruitment Status
According to NOAA Ocean Exploration, there are currently no open federal or contract vacancies within the office. However, prospective applicants are encouraged to regularly monitor NOAA, USAJOBS, and partner organization websites for future opportunities.
Why Explore NOAA Careers?
NOAA Ocean Exploration careers provide an opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific discoveries while protecting and understanding Earth’s oceans. Whether through internships, federal employment, marine operations, or research partnerships, NOAA offers rewarding pathways for individuals passionate about ocean science, technology, conservation, and exploration.
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