Become A Motorboat Mechanic

Motorboat mechanics are responsible for repairing and maintaining electrical and mechanical equipment found on boats. Most of them specialize in boats with portable outboard engines, which run on gasoline and can be taken off boats easily so that much of the work can be done in the repair shop. Some work on larger craft such as cabin cruisers and commercial fishing boats, which contain inboard motors that often run on diesel fuel. Most of these repairs need to be performed on-site at docks or marinas. In addition to engines, motorboat mechanics also work on propellers, steering mechanisms, marine plumbing, and other boat equipment. Many mechanics have corollary duties, such as patching and painting hulls. Most motorboat mechanics are employed by boat dealers and marinas, although a small number of them work for boat rental companies. Hours of work vary by season: heavy in spring and summer, when more than forty hours per week is common; and lean in the winter when many turn to fixing snowmobiles and other machinery.

Education, Certification, Licensing


Employers prefer to hire high school graduates for trainee mechanic positions, especially those who have taken courses in small engine repair, machine shop, electricity, science, and/or math. A growing number of mechanics graduate from formal postsecondary programs in motorboat repair, and these graduates tend to be in higher demand by employers. Most mechanics undergo on-the-job training, learning their trade while working. It typically takes somewhere between 3 to 5 years of on-the-job training before a trainee becomes proficient in all aspects of the repair of motorboat engines.

Manufacturers and distributors of motorboats and outdoor power equipment routinely offer courses geared for mechanics and trainees. These courses usually last several days or as much as a couple of weeks, and allow workers to upgrade their skills and keep up-to-date on new models. Many of the courses focus on the repair of advanced or specialized equipment. Any mechanic who performs warranty work for manufacturers or insurance companies is usually required to have taken one or more of these courses.

By: U Urbano

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

This article on marine mechanic schools and jobs has been provided courtesy of City Town Info.

Please Rate this Article