If you love working with your hands and have a passion for boats and marine equipment, a career as a marine technician could be for you. Marine technicians, also called marine mechanics, maintain and repair outboard and inboard engines, vessels, sterndrives and diesel engines. They diagnose problems, perform routine maintenance, test engines and fix issues.
Working on marine equipment can be a fulfilling job. You may work on equipment that powers global trade, repairing ships that transport goods and products around the world. Some marine technicians repair boats for individuals or businesses that rely on them. In any case, you get to be surrounded by open water and skilled in using some of the world’s most powerful equipment.
Keep reading to learn more about how much marine mechanics make!
Key points
- Marine technicians, also known as marine mechanics, are responsible for maintaining and repairing various marine equipment, including outboard and inboard engines, vessels, sterndrives and diesel engines. They diagnose problems, perform routine maintenance and fix issues, making this a fulfilling career for those passionate about working with their hands and boats.
- Universal Technical Institute (UTI) offers training for those interested in pursuing a career as a marine technician, with programs that include training on products from five major manufacturers in the marine industry.1
- The demand for marine technicians is driven by various factors, including the need for maintenance and repair of recreational boats, commercial vessels and equipment used in industries such as fishing, tourism and transportation, highlighting the importance of skilled technicians in supporting both local economies and global trade.
How Much Do Marine Mechanics Make?
What is a marine mechanic's salary? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for motorboat mechanics and service technicians in the United States was $54,950 ($26.42 hourly) in May 2024.31 This means half of marine technicians earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that a marine technician's salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.
In the following list, you’ll find the 2024 annual median wages, reported in May 2024, for marine mechanics throughout the United States (You can find data on the BLS website for all states except for West Virginia, Wyoming and the District of Columbia.) Let’s dive in!
Boat Mechanic Salary Growth Over Time & Career Progression
A boat mechanic salary often increases as technicians gain hands-on experience, expand their skills and pursue industry certifications. Entry-level technicians typically start by assisting senior mechanics, focusing on preventive maintenance and diagnostics.
Over time and with experience, technicians who specialize in areas like diesel engines, electrical systems or marine electronics can command higher pay. Some advance into roles such as these77:
- Marine electrician
- Marine propulsion technician
- Outboard motor mechanic
- Marine refrigeration and air conditioning technician
- Marina service manager
- Rig shop manager
- Shop manager
- Shop owner
Technicians who complete brand-specific or manufacturer-backed training, such as that included in the Marine Technician Specialist program offered through UTI, learn advanced brand-specific skills that can make them more competitive in the job market.
UTI’s manufacturer relationships give students the opportunity to train on products from major brands like Yamaha Marine, Mercury Marine and Honda Marine, helping them develop deeper product knowledge that can support long-term career growth in the marine industry.
Certifications & Skills That Can Boost Your Pay
Marine mechanics who continue learning throughout their career are often the ones who earn the most. Here are several ways to increase your earning potential:
- Earn manufacturer certifications. Specialized training on major brands such as Mercury Marine, Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda Marine and Volvo Penta can make you more competitive.
- Develop strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills. Employers value technicians who can identify issues quickly and accurately.
- Stay up to date on technology. Modern boats rely heavily on computerized systems, so training on marine electronics or fuel injection systems can help increase your value.
- Gain experience with different vessel types. Working on both recreational and commercial boats broadens your expertise.
Annual Median Boat Mechanic Salaries of Top 10 States
1. Alaska: $77,310
With fishing and tourism being top industries in Alaska, marine mechanics are needed to help keep the state’s economy running. Beyond that, the amount of wildlife and beauty you can find in Alaska might leave you wanting to get out there yourself, making it a great place to work and live.
2. Hawaii: $77,270
The islands of Hawaii are a prime area for boating. There are marine mechanic needs for both recreational and businesses. Hawaii is a significant producer and exporter of goods like sugar and pineapples, and another main industry here is defense. All of these require marine technicians to keep things running smoothly.
3. Washington: $70,000
Washington is a nature lover's dream, with plenty of forests and mountains to explore. According to the Washington State Department of Commerce, Washington’s key industries include agriculture, maritime, military and defense and tourism. These factors make marine mechanics an important role in Washington, and with Seattle’s bustling entertainment scene, there will be plenty of things to do.
4. California: $65,030
California has an extensive coastline, which spans over 800 miles and includes bustling marinas and ports. The state's thriving boating culture, with communities like Newport Beach, Marina del Rey and San Diego help fuel the need for marine maintenance and repair. The tourism industry, paired with a significant number of luxury yachts and recreational boats, also contributes to that demand.
5. Massachusetts: $64,310
Massachusetts is another coastal state where boats and ships abound. One of the state’s top industries is fishing, and food processing and storage is a major economic driver here. Tourism is also a big industry in Massachusetts. Marine mechanics are needed to power export services and boats for locals and vacationers in the area.
6. Connecticut: $62,620
Connecticut’s coastal location makes it a prime area for boating, sailing and fishing. Aerospace and defense is one of Connecticut’s growing industries! Marine mechanics here can work on motors and parts for all types of boats and ships.
7. Nevada: $61,440
While not located on the coast, Nevada has a thriving recreational boating scene centered around destinations like Lake Mead and Lake Tahoe. The state’s warm climate and active tourism industry help sustain steady demand for technicians who can service personal watercraft and maintain boats used for recreation and water sports. Marine mechanics here may work for marinas, resorts or independent repair shops that cater to residents and visitors alike.
8. Maryland: $61,190
The Chesapeake Bay area in Maryland is one of the largest and most active boating regions in the country. From private marinas and sailing clubs to fishing and charter operations, there are many environments where marine mechanics may apply their skills. The area’s strong boating culture and seasonal activity help support consistent repair and maintenance needs for a variety of vessels.
9. Virginia: $60,580
Virginia’s economy features a mix of maritime industries, including shipbuilding, defense and recreational boating. Marine mechanics in the region may work on engines and systems for private vessels, tour boats or smaller commercial fleets. With major waterways like the Chesapeake Bay and James River, technicians trained in marine technology can find diverse ways to apply their skills within Virginia’s active boating and marine service sectors.
10. Vermont: $60,520
Vermont is known for its beautiful natural landscape, including Lake Champlain in the northwest part of the state. Boating is popular among visitors, which opens the door to different opportunities for skilled marine technicians.
Train for a Marine Mechanics Career at UTI
If working in jobs and within industries like those mentioned above interests you, consider enrolling in the Marine program at UTI.1 At UTI, students receive training on the products of five major manufacturers that are part of the marine industry.
To learn more, visit our Marine Technician Specialist training program page and request information to get in touch with one of our Admissions Representatives today.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.