Ocean & Tidal Energy Engineer

Design and develop wave energy converters, tidal stream turbines, and ocean thermal energy conversion systems to harness the vast energy potential of marine environments. Conduct hydrodynamic modelling, structural analysis, and marine environmental impact assessments for offshore energy devices. Collaborate with marine contractors, utilities, and research institutions to advance ocean energy from demonstration to commercial deployment.

Median salary: $125,000. Projected growth to 2033: 15% (faster than average) - driven by DOE water power investments. Typical education: Master's Degree.

At a glance

Median salary
$125,000
Entry-level
$80,000 - $105,000
Senior
$180,000+
Growth by 2033
15% (faster than average) - driven by DOE water power investments
Demand
Growing
Remote
Hybrid
Hours per week
40-55 hours/week
Stress
Moderate

What you'd do

People interaction
Moderate
Team vs solo
60% Team / 40% Solo
Client facing
Sometimes
Impact visibility
High

How to get there

Minimum education
Master's Degree
Licensing
No
Years to mid-career
4-6 years
Years to senior
8-12 years
Career switching
Hard
Typical student debt
$40,000 - $80,000

Skills you'll use

Hard skills

  • Hydrodynamic Modelling (WAMIT / OrcaFlex)
  • Marine Structural Engineering
  • Tidal & Wave Resource Assessment
  • Offshore Mooring & Anchoring Systems
  • Marine Environmental Impact Assessment
  • DOE Water Power Technologies Office Program Requirements

Soft skills

  • Technical Problem-Solving
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Written Communication
  • Scientific Rigor

Technical complexity: Very High

Typical career path

  1. Ocean Energy Engineer
  2. Senior Engineer
  3. Principal Engineer
  4. Director of Ocean Energy Technology

Future outlook

Automation risk
Very Low
AI disruption risk
Low
Salary growth potential
High - 125% growth from entry to senior

How people feel about it

Overall satisfaction
7.8/10
Meaning
8.8/10
Work-life balance
7/10

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