Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
Motorboat mechanics and service technicians repair and adjust electrical and mechanical equipment of inboard or inboard-outboard boat engines.
The mechanic's boat and service technicians start motors and monitor performance for signs of malfunctioning, such as smoke, excessive vibration, or misfiring. The document inspection and test results of work performed. Most of their work, whether on small outboard engines or large diesel-powered inboard motors, is performed at docks and marinas where the repair shop is located.
The boat mechanics' job is to repair mechanical and electrical components of ships and boat engines. They mostly work in repair shops, seaports, docks and marines and repair watercraft of all shapes and sizes, from sport fishing boats to container ships.
To be eligible, one may obtain experience in motorboating in a certificate or associate's degree program. Few schools offer marine mechanic courses that teach the fundamentals. Those considering motorboating as a career option should know that safety is paramount for anyone out boating and that they have to be careful, and the vessels they use should be powerful to operate safely.
To get a service technician salary, a candidate requires skills that are developed through extensive powerboat training dealing with all aspects of safety, navigation, legislation and general maintenance. Essentially, knowledge is key when using a powerboat safely.
Along with excellent knowledge of motor technology, other hard skills that marine mechanics should possess to succeed in this career are good communication skills, and the ability to listen to and follow instructions. The soft skills one should have are to adapt to circumstances, provide customer satisfaction and be a problem solver.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- Diploma Marine Engineering
- B.E. Mechanical Engineering
- B.Tech Marine Engineering
- B.Tech Mechanical Engineering
Tasks
- Disassemble and inspect motors to locate defective parts, using mechanic's hand tools and gauges.
- Mount motors to boats and operate boats at various speeds on waterways to conduct operational tests.
- Start motors and monitor performance for signs of malfunctioning, such as smoke, excessive vibration, or misfiring.
- Document inspection and test results and work performed or to be performed.
- Replace parts, such as gears, magneto points, piston rings, or spark plugs, and reassemble engines.
- Idle motors and observe thermometers to determine the effectiveness of cooling systems.
- Set starter locks and align and repair steering or throttle controls, using gauges, screwdrivers, or wrenches.
- Adjust carburetor mixtures, electrical point settings, or timing while motors are running in water-filled test tanks.
- Repair engine mechanical equipment, such as power tilts, bilge pumps, or power take-offs.
- Inspect and repair or adjust propellers or propeller shafts.
Progression Routes
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