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Boats transport people, power water-based industries, are essential for tourism and recreation, and are viewed by many as one of the coolest forms of transportation around. Marine mechanics keep these impressive vehicles working and get to enjoy time by the water as they do so.
If working in an environment surrounded by boats and water sounds like your dream job, read on to learn the answer to what is a marine mechanic. Get information on a marine mechanic job description, marine mechanic salary and how to become a marine mechanic.
A marine mechanic—also called a marine technician—is a professional who inspects, maintains and repairs watercraft like sport fishing boats, sailboats and motorboats. Marine mechanics work on all types of boats and may work at marinas and for service yards, independent repair shops and yacht centers. Marine mechanics may also work in the military.
Marine mechanics are also employed by businesses that provide boats used for water recreation and scenic and sightseeing transportation. The career also offers lots of ways to merge multiple interests, like a love of entertainment or nature.
Marine mechanics work on all types of marine engines, including inboard motors and outboard motors. They may also fix problems related to hydraulic systems and boat steering.
Marine mechanics use tracks and winches to remove a boat from the water and set it on blocks. They use tools like pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, compression gauges, voltmeters, ammeters and pneumatic tools.
Every day as a marine mechanic brings new types of work and challenges, depending on the vehicle that’s being repaired and the issue that is being fixed. Generally, marine mechanic job duties include:
Most of our grads start out working as entry-level technicians or in other entry-level roles. As with any industry, over time, you may be able to advance in your career with hard work. Here are some of the many entry-level and advanced marine mechanic jobs you may be able to pursue:77
Other marine technicians become entrepreneurs and open their own boat-focused businesses. Whether you want to move up the ranks in marine leadership, become your own boss or work on boats all day, marine mechanic training provides opportunities.
Like most types of motor technicians, a marine mechanic must have excellent hand-eye coordination and be capable of working in a physically demanding job. Marine mechanics must also be effective communicators, since they need to be able to talk with clients and collaborate with co-workers.
Another essential marine mechanic trait is the ability to problem-solve. Marine mechanics are constantly encountering new challenges that require an analytical approach to identify problems and decide on the best solutions.
Marine mechanics must also be detail-oriented, since they need to understand how precise problems affect the complex machines they work on. An eye for detail is also important to ensure safety and high-quality work.
For those new to the marine technician world, the Marine Technician Specialist program at Marine Mechanics Institute (MMI) prepares aspiring marine mechanics for working professionally.1 The 51-week program7 includes inboard, outboard and sterndrive training on five marine brands, so graduates get a comprehensive marine technician education to prepare them for professional work. Students learn courses related to diesel, electrical systems, engines, fuel and lubrication systems, lower units and outdrives, rigging, and service operations.
Each manufacturer-specific course lasts three weeks so students can get in-depth training and learn the technical specificities of each brand, including:
While some marine mechanics have started their careers with on-the-job training, many marine mechanics today seek formal training. This can help them strengthen their résumés when they’re applying for jobs and show employers they’re ready to work with less on-the-job training needed.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for motorboat mechanics and service technicians in the United States was $48,280 in May 2022.31 This means half of marine technicians earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.
As people continue to use boats for recreation and our country relies on them for the transportation of goods, the demand for skilled marine technicians should remain.
If you have a passion for water and want to spend your working life near it, a career as a marine mechanic could be for you. MMI programs start every six weeks in Orlando, Florida, so you can go after your dreams.
Learn more about MMI online. Call 1-800-834-7308 to talk with an MMI representative or request marine technician education information online.
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