Oceanography Career Guide: Roles, Salary 2025 & Future Scope
Diya NihalaniContent Author
In India, there are several Oceanography career opportunities. These are Oceanographer, Marine Biologist, Marine Geologist, Ocean Engineer, Coastal Zone Manager, Environmental Consultant, etc.
After the graduates have passed Oceanography, they can either go for job profiles or pursue further education such as MSc in Oceanography, PhD in Oceanography, or any online courses and workshops.
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Top Oceanography Careers
Candidates can check the top Oceanography job profiles in the table below.
|
Job Profiles |
Description |
Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
|
Oceanographer |
They study various aspects of the ocean, including its physical properties, currents, temperature, and salinity. |
15.7 LPA |
|
Marine Biologist |
They study marine life, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. |
6.8 LPA |
|
Marine Geologist |
They investigate the geological features of the ocean floor, including the formation of underwater landscapes, minerals, and resources. |
14.5 LPA |
|
Ocean Engineer |
They design and develop equipment and systems for use in the ocean, such as submarines, offshore platforms, and underwater robots. |
13 LPA |
|
Coastal Zone Manager |
They work to protect and manage the coastal areas, which are often vulnerable to erosion and pollution. |
7.2 LPA |
|
Marine Conservationist |
These professionals focus on protecting marine ecosystems and species. |
6.4 LPA |
|
Climate/Ocean Modeler |
Specialists in this field use computer models to simulate and predict changes in ocean dynamics, climate patterns, and their interactions. |
4.2 LPA |
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Specialisation-Wise Oceanography Salary in India
In India, there are several specializations within the field of Oceanography that you can pursue through academic programs and research.
Candidates can check the table below to know the average salary that each Oceanography specialisation offers.
|
Specialisations |
Entry-Level CTC |
Mid-Level CTC |
Senior-Level CTC |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Physical Oceanography |
INR 3.5 - 6 LPA |
INR 6 - 10 LPA |
INR 10 - 20 LPA |
|
Biological Oceanography |
INR 7 - 8 LPA |
INR 8 - 10 LPA |
INR 10 - 20 LPA |
|
Marine Geology |
INR 3.5 - 6 LPA |
INR 6 - 10 LPA |
INR 10 - 20 LPA |
|
Chemical Oceanography |
INR 7 - 8 LPA |
INR 8 - 11 LPA |
INR 11 - 20 LPA |
|
Marine Ecology |
INR 3.5 - 6 LPA |
INR 6 - 10 LPA |
INR 10 - 20 LPA |
|
Marine Remote Sensing |
INR 3.5 - 6 LPA |
INR 6 - 10 LPA |
INR 10 - 20 LPA |
|
Marine Biotechnology |
INR 9 - 10 LPA |
INR 10 - 14 LPA |
INR 14 - 20 LPA |
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Top Oceanography Recruiters
Listed below is the key employment companies for oceanography professionals in India:
|
Key Employment Industries |
|
|---|---|
|
Research Institutions and Government Agencies |
Marine and Coastal Conservation Organizations |
|
Fisheries and Aquaculture Industry |
Naval and Defense Sectors |
Listed below are some of the top recruiters for Oceanography professionals in India:
|
Research Institutions and Government Agencies |
|
|---|---|
|
National Institute of Oceanography |
Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services |
|
Ministry of Earth Sciences |
Council of Scientific & Industrial Research |
|
Marine and Coastal Conservation Organizations |
|
|
The Nature Conservancy and Wildlife Institute of India |
WCS-India Marine Program |
|
Reef Watch Marine Conservation |
Coastal Conservation Foundation |
|
Fisheries and Aquaculture Industry |
|
|
Avanti Feeds Ltd. |
Waterbase Ltd |
|
Apex Frozen Foods Ltd |
Coastal Corporation Limited |
|
Naval and Defense Sectors |
|
|
Apollo Micro Systems |
Avantel |
|
BrahMos Aerospace |
Bharat Forge |
Top Oceanography Colleges: Jobs and Salary
The following is a list of some of the top colleges in India with their average salary package:
|
College Name |
Average Package |
|---|---|
|
12.5 LPA |
|
|
6.75 LPA |
|
|
6.5 LPA |
|
|
2.05 - 4.11 LPA |
|
|
4 LPA |
|
|
3.5 LPA |
|
|
3.5 LPA |
|
|
2.6 LPA |
|
|
2.46 LPA |
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Oceanography Jobs in the Government and Private Sector
Following are the various job profiles as per government and private sector:
Oceanography Jobs in Government Sector
Here are some government agencies and departments that offer Oceanography jobs:
|
Job Profiles |
Description |
Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
|
Oceanographer |
In government agencies, they are involved in a wide range of research activities related to the physical, chemical, geological, and biological aspects of the ocean. |
15.7 LPA |
|
Marine Biologist |
They study marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and the interactions between marine species. |
4.48 LPA |
|
Marine Geologist |
They focus on the study of the geological features of the ocean floor, including underwater landforms, sediments, and geological processes. |
14.5 LPA |
|
Physical Oceanographer |
They specialise in the study of ocean currents, waves, tides, and other physical aspects of the ocean. |
15.7 LPA |
|
Chemical Oceanographer |
They investigate the chemical composition of seawater, including the distribution of elements, nutrients, and pollutants. |
15 LPA |
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Oceanography Jobs in Private Sector
Here are some common job profiles in the private sector for Oceanography professionals:
|
Job Profiles |
Description |
Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
|
Marine Environmental Consultant |
Private environmental consulting firms may hire Oceanographers and marine scientists to assess the environmental impact of projects in coastal and marine areas. |
5.6 LPA |
|
Marine Research and Survey Scientist |
Private research and survey companies specializing in marine and coastal research often hire scientists and researchers to conduct studies, collect data, and analyze findings for commercial and academic purposes. |
7 LPA |
|
Marine Geotechnical Engineer |
Private companies involved in offshore engineering and construction hire marine geologists and geotechnical engineers to assess the seabed and geological conditions for infrastructure development. |
8.4 LPA |
|
Marine Remote Sensing Specialist |
Remote sensing specialists may find positions in private companies that offer services related to remote sensing technology, satellite data analysis, and ocean monitoring for various industries, including shipping and coastal management. |
6.1 LPA |
|
Marine and Offshore Engineer |
Private firms in the maritime and offshore industries often employ marine engineers and oceanographers for ship design, offshore platform construction, and marine equipment development. |
10.4 LPA |
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Oceanography Salary Abroad
Here's a general overview of oceanography salaries in some countries:
|
Country |
Salary Offered |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Oceanography Careers FAQs
Q. Is Oceanography a good career?
A. Yes, Oceanography is a very good career for students. Below is the list of some of the factors that you have to consider before joining the course -
- Academic and career considerations
- Personal and professional suitability
- Educational path and preparation
Q. What is the salary for BSc Oceanography?
A. BSc Oceanography grads can start their careers in entry-level positions. Here is a rough estimate of the salary range for BSc Oceanography graduates in India -
- Entry-Level: Rs. 2.5 - 4.5 LPA
- Mid-Level: Rs. 4.5 - 7 LPA
- Senior-Level: Rs. 7 - 20 LPA
Q. What is the highest-paid oceanographer?
A. The highest-paid senior-level oceanographers in India can get salaries above Rs. 20 Lakh per year. People who are in top roles like research directorsor academic professors so on can even get higher salaries, mostly in big organisations. The highest paid oceanographers in India are those with a good level of experience, advanced degrees such as a PhD and have expertise in a particular area of oceanography.
Q. What are the highest-paying oceanography jobs?
A. Some of the highest-paying Oceanography jobs in India can be found in the following sectors-
|
Job Profile |
Average Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
|
Research Scientist/Principal Scientist |
Rs. 12 L to Rs. 30 L or more |
|
Academic Professor/Researcher |
Rs. 10 L to Rs. 25 L or more |
|
Environmental Consultant |
Rs. 8 L to Rs. 20 L or more |
|
Offshore Engineer |
Rs. 10 L to Rs. 25 L or more |
|
Government Researcher |
Rs. 10 L to Rs. 25 L or more |
|
Marine Technology Specialist |
Rs. 8 L to Rs. 18 L or more |
|
International Collaboration |
Salaries can differ widely based on specific projects and funding |
|
Leadership Roles (e.g., Project Manager or Department Head) |
Rs. 15 L to Rs. 35 L or more |
Source - External Site and may vary.
Q. Can oceanographers work at NASA?
A. Yes, while NASA primarily focuses on space exploration and aeronautics, there are opportunities for oceanographers to work with the agency in specific areas related to Earth science and remote sensing.
Here are some ways oceanographers can work with NASA:
- NASA Earth Science Division: NASA's Earth Science Division conducts research related to the Earth's atmosphere, climate, and oceans.
- Remote Sensing and Satellite Missions: NASA develops and operates satellites and instruments that monitor Earth's oceans and provide valuable data for oceanography.
- Collaborative Research: Oceanographers may collaborate with NASA scientists and researchers on joint projects.
- NASA Earth Observing System (EOS): NASA's EOS program includes a series of satellites designed to study Earth's systems.
- NASA Earth Science Research Opportunities: Oceanographers can apply for research grants and funding opportunities offered by NASA's Earth Science Division to conduct research that aligns with NASA's mission and goals.
Q. Which is better: Oceanography or Marine Biology?
A. Oceanography is a broader field that encompasses the study of the entire ocean environment, including physical, chemical, geological, and biological aspects. Marine biology, on the other hand, specifically focuses on the biology of marine organisms and their interactions with the marine environment.
Candidates can check the table below to see the comparison between the two.
|
Parameters |
Oceanography |
Marine Biology |
|---|---|---|
|
Course Level |
UG, PG, Doctorate |
UG and PG |
|
Course Duration |
2-3 years |
2-3 years |
|
Course Fees |
INR 336 - 2.6 Lakh |
INR 50,000 per year (approx) |
|
Entrance Exams |
||
|
Popular Colleges |
UoH, Alagappa University, Cochin University of Science and Technology, etc. |
Cochin University of Science and Technology, Annamalai University, Pondicherry University, College of Science and Technology, etc. |
|
Job Profiles |
Oceanographer, Ocean Freight Manager, Ocean Import Manager, Maintenance Assistant, etc. |
Marine Ecologist and dive, Operations Manager, Reef Restoration Project Manager, Marine Biology Technician, Research Assistant, etc. |
|
Average Salary |
INR 4 LPA - INR 9 LPA |
INR 1.13 LPA to INR 40 LPA |
|
Top Recruiters |
Geological Survey of India, Meteorological Survey of India, Coal India, Mineral Exploration Authority, etc. |
Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Il India, Meteorological Survey of India, etc. |
Q. Who earns more: Oceanographer or Marine Biologist?
A. The average salary range of an Oceanographer in India ranges between INR 2.5 - 4.5 LPA, while that of a Marine Biologist is INR 2.5 - 7 LPA.
The earning potential for oceanographers and marine biologists in India can vary based on several factors, including qualifications, experience, specialization, location, and the specific employer. In general, the salaries for both oceanographers and marine biologists in India are competitive, but the actual earnings may differ.
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