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Oceanographer Job Description

What does an Oceanographer do?

An oceanographer is a scientist who studies the physical, chemical, geological, and biological aspects of the ocean. They use a wide range of techniques and tools to collect data and gather information about marine life and ecosystems. Oceanographers analyze ocean dynamics and currents, map the seafloor, study marine organisms and ecosystems, and explore the effects of climate change on the ocean. They typically work in research institutions, government agencies, or the private sector and may have a specialization in areas such as marine biology, physical oceanography, or marine geology.

Our Oceanographer job description includes the Oceanographer responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.

Oceanographer Example


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If you need an example job description for an Oceanographer download the one below, alternatively we have many other Science job description samples and a job description library with over 3000 job descriptions templates that you can download for free.

What does an Oceanographer do?

An Oceanographer is a scientist who studies the physical and biological properties of the oceans. They use a range of techniques to investigate the ocean’s physical, chemical, geological and biological processes, as well as the interactions between them. Oceanographers may work in laboratories, on ships or in the field, collecting data and analysing samples. They may also use remote sensing equipment, such as satellites, to monitor the ocean’s environment. Their findings are used to inform policies and management strategies, as well as to develop new technologies to protect and preserve the ocean’s resources.

Oceanographer Role Purpose

The purpose of an Oceanographer is to study the physical and chemical characteristics of the ocean, including its currents, waves, and tides, as well as the distribution and abundance of marine plants and animals. They may also study the impact of human activities on the ocean, such as climate change, ocean pollution, and coastal erosion. Oceanographers may work with other scientists to develop new technologies, improve existing methods and practices, and protect the marine environment. In addition, they may also educate the public about the importance of marine conservation and the impacts of human activities on the ocean.

Oceanographer Role

Oceanographer is a scientist who studies the physical and biological characteristics of the ocean and its inhabitants. They research topics such as ocean circulation, tides, currents, marine pollution, climate change and ocean resources. They may also be involved in mapping the seafloor and exploring marine life.

Oceanographer Duties

  • Carry out research on oceanic phenomena, such as currents, waves and marine life
  • Analyse data collected from experiments, surveys and fieldwork
  • Design and develop instruments, measurement systems and sampling methods
  • Write reports, papers and articles detailing research findings
  • Collaborate with colleagues, both in the field and in the office
  • Develop models to predict the behaviour of oceans, their inhabitants and their ecosystems

Oceanographer Requirements

  • A degree in a relevant field such as oceanography, marine biology, physical geography or earth sciences
  • Knowledge of the physical and biological characteristics of the ocean and the interactions between them
  • Knowledge of the principles, techniques and instrumentation used in oceanography
  • Ability to analyse and interpret data
  • Excellent communication, organisational and IT skills

Oceanographer Skills

  • Plan and conduct scientific investigations at sea and in the laboratory
  • Collect and analyse data and interpret results
  • Develop and deploy new equipment and techniques to measure ocean processes
  • Prepare research papers, reports and presentations
  • Collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders
  • Stay abreast of developments in oceanography

Oceanographer Personal Traits

  • Excellent problem solving skills
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills
  • Highly analytical and logical thinking
  • Strong numeracy and IT skills
  • Ability to work on own initiative

How to write an Oceanographer Job Advert

Use our job advert template to write a job advert for posting on job sites and job boards. Our job advertising templates are carefully created to help you reach your audience and beat the competition to the best talent.

A job description informs the reader about a job, whereas a job advert’s main objective is to sell the job opportunity to attract as many suitable applicants possible. A job advert maybe the first touch-point a candidate has with your company so it is important to create a great impression.

Job Advertisements should enticing, so considering using short, exciting language which get the reader’s attention.

How to write an Oceanographer Job Description

To write a job description, we recommend starting with a job description template from our job description library, which contains examples for 800+ positions and professions. Our job description examples include a job summary with duties and responsibilities and skills and requirements, which can be personalised for your job vacancy.

Job Description Advice - Guidance on How to Personalise an Oceanographer Job Specification

The hiring process and recruiting new employees to fill your key roles requires a degree of personalisation if you are to attract the best employees in a competitive employment market. The right person for a crucial role or more senior roles will likely have other employers targeting them. As your job description will be the first point of contact, you need to nail your pitch and provide the best possible service.

Job Description Tips - Help on formatting an Oceanographer Job Specification

When creating your bespoke description and advert, you should cover and promote these points:

Job title: This should accurately reflect the role and include keywords that top talent might be using to search for jobs.

Job duties: The day to day duties, such as administrative tasks, which vary depending on the company and inform the candidate if they can complete the role.

Technical skills: These are the hard skills required through training, such as proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Soft skills: These include the interpersonal skills and general abilities the right candidates will possess. For example, the competency to prioritise multiple tasks, handle customer queries and customer complaints, work alone, or build a good relationship with coworkers.

The company's culture: Highlighting your company culture and values ensures employees thrive and find outstanding job satisfaction. Candidates that are not the right fit won’t waste their time completing the application process, meaning you can focus on qualified individuals and hire in a more timely manner.

Career progression: Including the career path will entice candidates looking for career growth. 

Training and development programs: Smaller companies may need employees with previous experience or provide educational assistance over internal training offered by larger organisations with more significant resources. 

Employee benefits: Compensation and benefits often fail to appear in job ads and while you may want to hold your cards close to your chest, failing to include them is a mistake. Consider answering common questions, such as working hours and paid leave. Researching the average salary for the role in these early stages will ensure you don’t waste your interviewer’s and the candidate’s time.

Skill gaps: Your company may need to bring in new skills beyond those required to complete the key role and duties. Thinking on an organisational level can be beneficial when contemplating skills diversity.

Legal requirements: Ensure your job advert and description does not ask for inappropriate or discriminatory personal details, such as age, marital status, or religion.

How to Hire an Oceanographer

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