Science Program Officer

Science Program Officer

OceanX

About OceanX:

OceanX is a nonprofit working to unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential. Through a dual focus on science and education, we’re building a new paradigm where humanity and the ocean mutually thrive. Our approach is fueled by exploration, leveraging advanced research, multimedia educational programs, cross-sector partnerships, and advanced technology to help transform how people understand and value the ocean. Our work strives to fortify biodiversity and increase the sustainable use of ocean resources to help ensure the ocean remains a foundation for human wellbeing and potential. OceanX is a nonprofit operating program of Dalio Philanthropies.

For more information, visit www.oceanx.org and follow OceanX on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and LinkedIn.

Position Summary:

OceanX is seeking a Science Program Officer to drive scientific missions aboard the research vessel, OceanXplorer. Reporting directly to the OceanX co-CEO on all science-related matters, this role will play a central part in shaping and managing the science program. The Science Program Officer will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team spanning science, media, education, and marine operations, while serving as a key liaison with the global scientific and ocean exploration communities.

The ideal candidate will collaborate with external research organizations to identify, evaluate, and develop missions that are both scientifically significant and aligned with OceanX’s broader mission. With the support of team members, the Science Program Officer will contribute across the full mission lifecycle- from ideation and proposal review to planning, execution, and post-mission evaluation - ensuring that each expedition delivers meaningful scientific impact and storytelling value.

OceanX is an entrepreneurial environment which values team players who can manage priorities and workstreams simultaneously. To thrive and succeed within our unique culture and work environment, you must demonstrate humility, innate curiosity, and openness to new ideas/approaches. You also must be hard working, composed and goal oriented. All employees are expected to be honest, excited about providing and receiving objective feedback, constantly striving for self-improvement, and committed to the pursuit of excellence

Position Location:

New York City, NY

Duties and Responsibilities:​

• Serve as expedition coordinator onboard the vessel, overseeing all elements of scientific missions
• Act as Head of Scientific Operations while onboard, ensuring scientific missions are effectively executed
• Lead outreach to the scientific and ocean exploration communities to build strategic alliances and partnerships in alignment with OceanX Partnerships
• Evaluate and recommend science mission proposals in collaboration with Digital Programs, Partnerships, and Education teams
• Manage communications on scientific programs and mission outputs with internal Digital Programs/Marketing & Communication teams and external partners (pre-mission, on-mission, and post-mission reporting)
• Oversee planning and logistics to ensure timely delivery of mission enablers (e.g., permitting, scientific equipment, and supplies)
• Direct onboard science and technical teams to ensure missions have the necessary resources and capabilities for success
• Develop and maintain budgets for science operations and projects
• Oversee Science team resources, including contractors, consultants, and onshore/offshore personnel
• Willingness to spend extended periods at sea, with travel comprising up to 35% of the year
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including early mornings or late evenings, to support cross-time zone collaboration
• Adaptable to varying workloads, balancing periods of focused execution with lighter operational phases
• Additional duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• ​​Professional Experience:​
  • Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a related scientific field
  • 7+ years of experience in a comparable organization or domain (e.g., marine research, exploration, conservation, or science operations)
  • Proven experience coordinating or managing offshore missions, field-based research, or marine operations, with a strong professional network in the ocean science or exploration community
  • Background in marine science, oceanography, or related fieldwork; direct experience with oceanographic expeditions strongly preferred
  • Demonstrated success planning and executing complex, multi-stakeholder projects in dynamic and fast-paced environments
• Personal Attributes:
  • Determined, resourceful and practical. An independent, self-starter, with a “roll up your sleeves” attitude and strong work ethic
  • Agility, with a track record of getting things done
  • Organized, reliable, and meticulous
  • Ability to prioritize, meet tight deadlines, anticipate needs, and maintain high quality work
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Comfortable with ambiguity
  • Maintains high standards
  • Highly collaborative

Illustrative Benefits:

• Access to a World Class Exploration Vessel

• 100% company paid medical premiums

• 17 company paid holidays

• Friday summer hours

• Monthly community happy hours

• Hybrid work environment

• 2 One-Month Periods of Remote First Work

• Free catered food services for in-office Thursdays

• Generous PTO offering

• Casual dress code

• 150% 401(k) match up to $7,500 and 100% match above $7,500 ($15k match limit)

• Gym reimbursement, back up childcare services, insurance, financial, and legal services, and much more!

Compensation:

Compensation for the role includes a competitive salary in the range from $135,000 – 160,000 (inclusive of a merit-based bonus, dependent on years of experience, level of education obtained, as well as applicable skillset), potentially a success-driven incentive payment and an excellent benefits package, including a comprehensive employer paid medical plan and generous employer match for 401k.

Please note that we do not provide immigration sponsorship for this position. OceanX is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All correspondence will remain confidential.