What is it like as an oceanographer?

Hello Luke,

Oceanographers use their knowledge of biology, chemistry, physics and geology to study the seas and oceans. In this job, you may carry out research into the effects of climate change or explore the impact of pollution and offshore engineering on marine life. If you love maths and science, and would like to work in the environment, this could be the career for you.

You’ll use your observational skills to collect data and track changes in the marine environment that you’re researching. A practical approach and good problem solving skills will help you deal with hands on research at sea.

Most new oceanographers have a degree in oceanography or a related subject and a postgraduate master's degree. Some employers will also expect you to have, or be working towards, a relevant PhD.

Work activities:

As an oceanographer you may work across a range of sciences including chemistry, biology, geology and physics. You can specialise in one of the four branches of oceanography which are:

• biological – studying marine plants and animals


• physical – exploring water temperature, density, wave motion, tides and currents


• geological – examining the structure and make-up of the ocean floor


• chemical – analysing the chemicals in sea water and the impact of pollutants

Working hours and conditions:

Your hours of work can vary depending on the project you’re working on. You could spend time in a lab or office as well as several days, or even months, at sea. When carrying out research, you may work away from your lab or office on a ship or an offshore platform in a remote location. Conditions may be hazardous and physically demanding.
This work often includes using diving equipment or submersible vehicles.

Oceanography is mostly a research based career. Most new oceanographers have a degree in oceanography or a related subject followed by a postgraduate master's degree in oceanography. Some employers will also expect you to have, or be working towards, a relevant PhD. Relevant degree subjects include:

• oceanography


• ocean science


• maths


• geology


• biology


• chemistry


• environmental science

Skills and knowledge: As an oceanographer you will need:

• strong mathematical and scientific skills


• good observational skills


• practical skills


• good problem solving skills


• a flexible approach to work


• accuracy and attention to detail


• good physical health and fitness for practical research work


• the ability to work alone and as part of a team


• excellent spoken and written communication skills

Read more in: https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/advice/planning/jobprofiles/Pages/oceanographer.aspx

All the Best!

Luke,

I am an oceanographer for the U.S. Navy, and thoroughly enjoy, and have enjoyed, the different jobs I've had. Naval Oceanographers are also hydrographers and meteorologists, and have to answer seismological and volcanological questions as well. We really are the Navy's experts on environmental impacts to operations.

When it comes to strictly oceanography, we deal primarily with physical and acoustical oceanography. These sub fields directly influence safety of navigation and anti-submarine warfare, hence the Navy's focus on those in particular. Understanding chemical and biological oceanography will help you in determining cause and effect, but you won't be working in those fields directly.

For your education, a general oceanography or a focus on physical oceanography with a few courses in underwater acoustics would serve you well. Additionally, some courses in atmospheric processes would lend understanding to the climatological and meteorological consequences of physical oceanography.

A slightly different view of it - as that is a great answer. First, seek out some prominent oceanographers and see where it leads you, because not all are the same. Some do research, some do habitat protection, etc. Read anything and everything by Sylvia Earle - she's amazing. Also look at the Cousteaus and at both Wood's Hole Oceanographic Institute (Massachusetts) and Scripps out in San Diego.

Also, there are a lot of things other than being an oceanographer that can keep you close to nature. Many nonprofits work on habitat preservation. Social and environmental responsibility programs at various companies may have a tie to working with these groups or with oceanographers.