Oceanography
Performs professional oceanography work including ocean research, data analysis, and marine science.
💰GS-1360 Salary Information
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
| GS-14 | $106,382 | $109,928 | $113,474 | $117,020 | $120,566 | $124,112 | $127,658 | $131,204 | $134,750 | $138,296 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-1360
Degree: major study of at least 24 semester hours in oceanography or a related discipline such as physics, meteorology, geophysics, mathematics, chemistry, engineering, geology, or biology, plus 20 additional semester hours in any combination of oceanography, physics, geophysics, chemistry, mathematics, meteorology, computer science, and engineering sciences.
or
Combination of education and experience -- course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Applicants who qualify on the basis of major study in biology or geology must have had at least 6 semester hours in the major directly concerned with marine science or 6 semester hours in oceanography; applicants who qualify on the basis of other physical sciences or engineering must have had differential and integral calculus and at least 6 semester hours in physics.
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ⚠️Note: Degree required for this series.
📝How to Qualify for GS-1360
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal oceanography position
- 1
Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
- 2
Determine Your Grade Level
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
🎖️Military to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-1360
Oceanography Officer
Oceanography expertise.
Cryptologic Technician Interpretive
While primarily focused on intelligence, CTIs with a focus on environmental data analysis can transition to oceanography roles by leveraging their data interpretation skills.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct oceanographic research
- •Analyze ocean data
- •Study marine ecosystems
- •Operate oceanographic equipment
- •Prepare scientific reports
- •Model ocean processes
🎯Key Competencies
Knowledge of ocean circulation and dynamics.
Understanding of marine ecosystems and organisms.
Skill in analyzing oceanographic data.
Knowledge of oceanographic sampling and measuring equipment.
Ability to develop and use ocean circulation models.
Skill in conducting oceanographic cruises and surveys.
Knowledge of satellite oceanography techniques.
Ability to prepare research papers and reports.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-1360
What is an Oceanographer?
A GS-1360 Oceanographer studies ocean systems—physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects of marine environments. These scientists conduct oceanographic research, analyze ocean data, model ocean circulation, operate oceanographic equipment during research cruises, and prepare scientific reports for agencies like NOAA, Navy, Coast Guard, and EPA to support marine resource management and national security.
How much does a federal Oceanographer make?
Federal Oceanographers earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $138,296 (GS-14 Step 10) on the 2025 GS scale. Most positions are at GS-9 through GS-13. A GS-12 Oceanographer earns $75,706-$98,422. NOAA and Navy are primary employers. Research cruise positions may include sea pay differentials and extended travel benefits.
What are the requirements for GS-1360 positions?
GS-1360 requires a degree with at least 24 hours in oceanography or related science (physics, meteorology, geophysics, math, chemistry, engineering, geology, or biology), plus 20 additional hours in oceanography, physics, geophysics, chemistry, math, meteorology, computer science, or engineering. Biologists/geologists need 6 hours in marine science or oceanography; physical scientists need calculus and 6 hours of physics.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-1360?
The required degree cannot be substituted with military experience alone. However, Navy veterans with oceanography degrees and operational experience are exceptionally qualified. Experience in anti-submarine warfare, ocean survey ships, meteorology/oceanography (METOC) divisions, or Naval Oceanographic Office provides directly relevant background when combined with required education.
What is the career progression for Oceanographer?
Oceanographers follow the GS-5/7/9/11/12 progression with journey level at GS-12. Senior scientists and research leads reach GS-13/14. Career paths include specializing in physical oceanography, biological oceanography, or marine geology. Some transition to research vessel operations management or headquarters ocean policy positions at NOAA or Navy.
How do I apply for GS-1360 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Oceanographer" under series 1360. NOAA (largest employer), Naval Oceanographic Office, Office of Naval Research, and Coast Guard are primary employers. Highlight research cruise experience, ocean modeling skills, instrumentation proficiency, and publications. Include specific software (ocean circulation models, remote sensing) in your federal resume.
Ready to Apply for GS-1360?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.