Boat & outboard engines
Marine Mechanic
Seasonal, well paid, and salt water destroys everything eventually.
Typical pay
$42k-$85k
How you get in
Marine technology program or dealer training
Outlook
Strong; the industry is consistently short of technicians
Marine mechanics service boat engines and systems. It is small engine and diesel work complicated by corrosion, water intrusion and marine electrical, and the seasonal shape of the work is severe in northern markets.
A day in the life
- 7:30aReview the service queue and parts availability
- 8:30aOutboard diagnostic — no start after winter storage
- 11:00aLower unit service and impeller replacement
- 12:30pLunch
- 1:00pMarine electrical troubleshooting on a corroded harness
- 4:00pSea trial to verify the repair
How to get in
Dealer training
Duration
6-18 months
Cost
$0 — paid on the job
Credential
Manufacturer certifications (Mercury, Yamaha, Volvo Penta)
- Get hired at a marina or dealership doing rigging and basic service
- Learn two-stroke, four-stroke and sterndrive systems
- Complete manufacturer certification schools, usually employer-funded
- Brand certifications are what determine your rate
Marine technology program
Duration
9-24 months
Cost
$8,000-$30,000
Credential
Certificate or associate in marine technology
- Complete a marine service technology program
- Learn engines, electrical, hydraulics and corrosion control
- Enter a dealership above helper level
- ABYC certification adds credibility for systems work
Mobile marine service
Duration
2-5 years of experience
Cost
$15,000-$60,000
Credential
Business license, insurance, manufacturer certifications
- Build brand certifications and diagnostic speed
- Buy a service van and tooling
- Serve marinas and private docks where boats cannot easily be moved
- Mobile service commands premium rates and builds loyal customers
What people love
- · Better pay than automotive in most markets
- · Manufacturer certifications raise rates significantly
- · Mobile service business is very achievable
- · You work around boats and water
What wears people down
- · Highly seasonal in northern climates
- · Corrosion makes every job harder than it looks
- · Awkward positions in tight engine compartments
- · Customers are frustrated because boats are recreation