Oceanographer Job Description

Oceanographers can follow three different career paths: geological, chemical or physical. All three types of scientists study the ocean and its properties and they often work together as a team on specific projects. They report on the ecological conditions of the ocean and specific ocean phenomena that affect the habitat environment of marine life and the health and safety of humans.

Geological Oceanographers

Geological oceanographers are concerned with the topography of the ocean floor. They study underwater volcanoes, mountains and canyons and other formations to determine the history of the ocean and predict future geological activity. These scientists also study sediment to help determine the movement of the ocean. They work with physical and chemical oceanographers as well as marine biologists to examine fossilized remains of animals and plants and to determine climate history.

Physical Oceanographers

Satellite technology has advanced the field of physical oceanographers in a very significant way. These scientists study the overall physical characteristics of the ocean. Satellites make it possible for them to view the ocean from a large-scale perspective. They are mainly focused on the movement of the ocean and the phenomenon that causes movement such as waves, wind and tides. Physical oceanographers study the temperature, concentration of saline, underwater formations and wind to figure out how and why ocean events such as tsunamis occur. Computer models and satellite observation are used as tools, as are ocean-based studies such as computer programmable buoys.

Chemical Oceanographers

An important area of study for these scientists is pollution. There is great concern about the pollution of the ocean and the sustainability of the environment for marine life. Chemical oceanographers locate pollutants in the ocean such as oil, fertilizers and manufacturing waste. They study the interaction of saltwater, plants and marine animals with various pollutants. Other scientists in this field study global warming. The temperature of the ocean is a good indicator of an increase in carbon dioxide. A variance of even 1 degree in temperature can make a big difference to the plant and animal life in the ocean.

Education

Oceanography is a career within the earth science field. Most oceanographers begin with a bachelor's degree in an earth science discipline and move on to earn a graduate degree in one of the three areas of oceanography.

Work Environment

Oceanographers work in laboratories or offices to conduct the majority of their research. They also go to the ocean for data collection. These scientists typically work a 40-hour week, often conducting research for the government or nonprofit organizations.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Sea Grant Marine Careers