Marine Technician Training - Marine Technician

According to the bureau of Labor Statistics, marine technician employment is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations, and people with marine technician training should enjoy good job prospects.

But always remember, the use of motorboats and outdoor power equipment is seasonal in most areas, so marine technicians may need to service other types of equipment or else work reduced hours in the winter.

Marine Technician Training

Marine technicians specialize in working on small engines that power motorboats and outdoor power equipment that share many characteristics with their larger counterparts.

Specifically, marine technicians repair and adjust the electrical and mechanical equipment of inboard and outboard boat engines. Most small boats have portable outboard engines that are removed and brought into the repair shop.

Larger craft, such as cabin cruisers and commercial fishing boats, are powered by diesel or gasoline inboard or inboard-outboard engines, which are removed only for major overhauls. Most of these repairs are performed at the docks or marinas. Marine technicians also may work on propellers, steering mechanisms, marine plumbing, and other boat equipment.

Due to the increasing complexity of marine equipment, most employers prefer to hire technicians with marine technician training.

During marine technician training, students learn routine service tasks under the guidance of experienced technicians by replacing ignition points and spark plugs or by taking apart, assembling, and testing new equipment. As they gain experience and proficiency, trainees progress to more difficult tasks, such as advanced computerized diagnosis and engine overhauls.

After Marine Technician Training

But even once marine technician training is completed, learning isn’t necessarily over. Employers often send technicians to power equipment manufacturers or distributors. These courses, which last as long as 2 weeks, upgrade the worker’s skills and provide information on repairing new models.

Not a bad life, the life of the marine technician.