As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Physical Oceanographer in Alaska is $93,224 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $45.
However, a Physical Oceanographer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Physical Oceanographer's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Physical Oceanographer's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Physical Oceanographer | $91,750 |
| Intermediate Level Physical Oceanographer | $92,192 |
| Senior Level Physical Oceanographer | $93,666 |
| Specialist Level Physical Oceanographer | $95,434 |
| Expert Level Physical Oceanographer | $98,245 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Physical Oceanographers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Physical Oceanographer roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 60% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Healthcare sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Physical Oceanographer positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit or Business Services typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Physical Oceanographer as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $121,191 | $58.0 | 30% |
| Healthcare | $102,546 | $49.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a Physical Oceanographer's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Physical Oceanographer job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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