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Oceanographers

Life, Physical & Social Sciencesmediumaugment
BLS 2024-34: +5%
Median Wage: $98,560
Employment: 3K

Overall Exposure

42

2025 vs 2023

Theoretical Exposure

61

What AI could do

Observed Exposure

23

What AI actually does

Automation Risk Score

18

Displacement risk

3-Year Outlook (2025 → 2028)

Projected changes in AI automation metrics over the next 3 years based on estimated data.

Overall Exposure

42→56
+14

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Theoretical Exposure

61→73
+12

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Observed Exposure

23→40
+17

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Automation Risk

18→30
+12

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Exposure Metrics (2023 - 2028)

Task Breakdown

Process ocean sensor and buoy data
65%β 1
Conduct deep-sea research expeditions
10%β 0
Build ocean circulation and climate models
50%β 0.5

About This Occupation

If you work as an Oceanographer, AI is augmenting your data processing and modeling work. With an automation risk of 18/100 and overall exposure at 42%, this role faces medium transformation. Sensor data processing sees the highest automation at 65%. BLS projects +5% growth through 2034.

Frequently Asked Questions

With an automation risk score of 18%, Oceanographers has a low risk of AI replacement. Most tasks in this role require skills that are difficult for AI to replicate, such as complex decision-making, physical dexterity, or deep interpersonal interaction. AI is more likely to serve as a supportive tool.

The AI automation risk score for Oceanographers is 18% (2025 data). Overall AI exposure is 42%, with 61% theoretical exposure and 23% observed exposure. The risk trend from 2023 to 2025 is 0 points.

The tasks with the highest automation potential for Oceanographers are: Process ocean sensor and buoy data (65%), Build ocean circulation and climate models (50%), Conduct deep-sea research expeditions (10%). These rates reflect how much of each task current AI systems can handle, based on research data from Anthropic and academic sources.

The BLS projects +5% employment change for Oceanographers from 2024 to 2034. Combined with an overall AI exposure of 42%, this occupation is experiencing both traditional labor market shifts and AI-driven transformation. Workers should monitor both employment trends and AI capability growth.

Since AI primarily augments capabilities in this role, professionals in Oceanographers should embrace AI as a productivity multiplier. Focus on learning to use AI tools effectively, developing higher-order analytical and creative skills, and positioning yourself as someone who can leverage AI to deliver greater value.