Explorer Careers in Canada's Blue Economy
Discover pathways to meaningful, future-ready jobs across Canada’s ocean sectors—from marine conservation to ocean tech and sustainable fisheries.
What is a Blue Economy Career?
Learn about the growing demand for ocean-based roles that contribute to sustainable development, innovation, and coastal resilience. These careers span science, technology, conservation, and more. Read our career profiles below to get informed.
Explore Career Profiles by Interest or Sector
Manufacturing Assembler
Assembles, tests, and calibrates marine equipment like sensors and sonar devices to ensure high-performance ocean technologies. Supports research and conservation by building precise, reliable systems for marine deployment.
Acoustic Engineer
Designs and analyzes underwater sound technologies to monitor marine environments and reduce noise pollution. Supports sustainable ocean practices through sonar systems, acoustic modeling, and environmental research.
HSE Specialist
Implements health, safety, and environmental protocols to protect people and ecosystems in coastal tourism. Conducts risk assessments, emergency planning, and regulatory compliance to ensure safe, sustainable marine experiences.
Fishing Vessel Master
Leads commercial fishing operations with expertise in navigation, crew management, and sustainable fishing practices. Balances productivity and stewardship while safeguarding marine ecosystems and coastal traditions.
Fisheries Biologist
Studies and monitors fish populations to support sustainable fisheries and habitat restoration. Uses data-driven research and collaboration to protect aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity.
Dockworker
Supports global marine logistics by loading, unloading, and securing cargo at ports and terminals. Ensures safety and efficiency in fast-paced shipping environments using forklifts, cranes, and inventory systems.
Aquaculture Technician
Supports healthy aquatic life in hatcheries and farms by managing water quality, feeding, and habitat conditions. Helps grow sustainable seafood and protect marine ecosystems.
Wind Turbine Technician
Performs inspections, maintenance, and repairs on wind turbines in coastal regions. Supports safe, efficient renewable energy systems that power sustainable communities.
Software Developer
Designs and maintains software that powers marine research, monitoring, and underwater tech. Builds tools to analyze ocean data, control robotics, and protect marine ecosystems.
ROV Technician
Operates and maintains remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for underwater inspections, data collection, and repairs. Supports research, aquaculture, and offshore industries with hands-on subsea work.
Outdoor Animator
Leads eco-activities that educate and inspire visitors through hands-on experiences in marine and natural environments. Shares environmental knowledge, ensures group safety, and promotes sustainable tourism.
Navigational Officer
Charts safe routes, manages bridge operations, and guides vessels through open and coastal waters. Navigates, interprets weather and ensures crew and cargo are secure on every voyage.
Marine Technician
Maintains and repairs engines, electronics, and onboard systems that keep marine vessels running smoothly. Supports safe, efficient tourism operations on the water with technical expertise and hands-on problem-solving.
Marine Systems Engineer
Designs, operates, and maintains complex propulsion, electrical, and onboard systems to keep marine vessels running safely and sustainably. Supports innovation in clean marine transport and offshore operations.
Fisheries Compliance Officer
Monitors fishing activity on land and at sea to ensure compliance with federal and provincial fisheries laws. Conducts inspections, gathers evidence, and enforces regulations to protect fish stocks and marine habitats. Builds trust with harvesters and communities while promoting sustainable, responsible fishing practices.
Fisheries Observer
Collects scientific data on harvested fish aboard vessels and at dockside to support sustainable fisheries management. Reviews licences, inspects gear, and records species information to verify compliance with regulations. Provides unbiased monitoring that helps protect marine ecosystems and maintain healthy fish populations.
Logistics Analyst
Improves the flow of goods across marine and coastal supply chains through data-driven planning and analysis. Tracks shipments, optimizes routing, and evaluates performance to reduce costs and environmental impacts. Supports resilient, sustainable logistics systems essential to the blue economy.
Marine Spatial Planner
Guides how ocean space is used by coordinating ecological, economic, and community priorities. Analyzes marine data, engages stakeholders, and develops strategic plans that minimize conflict and maximize sustainability. Ensures marine activities are aligned, balanced, and future focused.
Naval/Ship Architect
Designs and tests marine vessels and offshore structures using engineering, hydrodynamics, and advanced modeling tools. Develops hulls, systems, and layouts that meet safety, performance, and regulatory requirements. Enables innovation and efficiency across commercial shipping, defense, energy, and marine research sectors.
Ocean Literacy Specialist
Creates and delivers educational programs that help the public understand ocean systems, marine ecology, and human-ocean relationships. Designs engaging workshops, tours, and exhibits that inspire stewardship and behaviour change. Works with partners to improve ocean awareness and support sustainability efforts.
Supply Chain Manager
Oversees procurement, transportation, storage, and distribution across marine-based industries. Builds resilient, sustainable supply chains that adapt to environmental, logistical, and regulatory challenges. Ensures efficient movement of goods from ocean to market while supporting sector-wide sustainability goals.
Water Quality Specialist
Tests and analyzes water conditions in marine, coastal, and freshwater environments to assess ecological health. Conducts field surveys, evaluates environmental impacts, and prepares scientific reports that inform regulatory decisions. Supports conservation and sustainable development by ensuring reliable, high-quality environmental data.
ESG Specialist
Integrates environmental, social, and governance principles into marine-sector operations to advance sustainable ocean use. Analyzes data, evaluates risks and opportunities, and develops ESG strategies aligned with industry standards and regulations. Engages stakeholders to support responsible decision-making and long-term sustainability.
Oceans Policy Analyst
Researches, evaluates, and develops policies that guide fisheries management, marine conservation, and oceans governance. Synthesizes scientific and socio-economic information to inform legislation, programs, and strategic decisions. Works with governments, Indigenous partners, industry, and NGOs to support sustainable ocean management.
Help Validate Canada’s Blue Economy Competency Profiles
We’re seeking subject matter experts to review and validate new Blue Economy competency profiles. By sharing your expertise, you’ll help shape workforce tools that support Canada’s ocean and marine sector—ensuring skills and training meet tomorrow’s industry needs.
Mentorship Opportunities
OAC’s mentorship network helps bridge the gap between learning and leadership.
We connect emerging professionals with experienced leaders across Canada’s ocean sector—supporting career growth, knowledge exchange, and inclusive development. Mentorships are aligned with SBEP designation levels and learning streams to ensure meaningful, skills-matched guidance.
Be Part of Canada's Ocean Future
Join our national alliance of professionals, researchers, and employers building a sustainable ocean workforce.