Also called: Marine Robotics Engineer, Underwater Vehicle Engineer
Designs the underwater robots that explore, inspect, and work in the deep ocean.
Robotics engineers design waterproof thrusters, robotic arms, and control systems, then test vehicles in tanks and at sea. Teams at places like Woods Hole, MBARI, Anduril, and Saildrone are building the next generation of ocean robots.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Master's degree, about 6 years after high school. Bachelor's in mechanical, electrical, or ocean engineering; many have a master's.
Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school. Training cost: $60k – $150k.
Majors to look at: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Robotics.
Growing faster than average (about 5% over 10 years).
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. AI design and simulation tools speed work; building robots that survive real ocean pressure and grime stays human-led.
Classes: AP Physics, AP Calculus, AP Computer Science.
Official data: O*NET occupation 17-2199.
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