Marine Technician

Do you love boats and enjoy fixing engines? Marine technicians keep vessels running smoothly on the water. Marine technicians, also called marine mechanics, repair and maintain inboard and outboard engines, propulsion systems, and onboard electronics. They work on everything from small personal boats to yachts and commercial vessels. If you enjoy mechanical systems, diagnostics, and hands-on problem solving, marine technology is a specialized trade tied to the boating industry. Quick answers What does a marine technician do? Marine technicians inspect, service, and repair mechanical and electrical systems on boats and watercraft. They diagnose issues with engines, fuel systems, steering, and electronic controls. Is a marine technician the same as a marine mechanic? On this page, the terms are used interchangeably. Marine technicians (marine mechanics) repair and maintain inboard and outboard engines, propulsion systems, and onboard electronics. Where do marine technicians work? Marine technicians work in boat dealerships and marinas, marine repair shops, and boat manufacturing and assembly plants. They can also work in government and military maintenance facilities or offer independent mobile or dockside repair services. How long does marine technician training take? Many marine technicians train through 1-2 years of vocational or manufacturer-sponsored programs. Apprenticeships or on-the-job training can also be part of the path. Are certifications required? Certifications are optional, but ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) and engine manufacturer certifications (Yamaha, Mercury, Honda) are available. How much does training cost? Program costs vary by school, format, location and certification level. Certification fees vary by organization and are typically under $300. At a glance Role: Repair and maintain engines, propulsion systems, and onboard electronics.Also called: Marine mechanic.Work settings: Marinas, dealerships, repair shops, manufacturers, and government facilities.Training paths: Certificate, associate degree, apprenticeship, or on-the-job training.Costs: program tuition varies widely by school and format; certification fees typically under $300.Certifications: Optional (ABYC or manufacturer programs). Quick Facts: Marine Technician Training and Outlook Median Pay $57,550 $27.67/hr Top 10%: $79,330 Job Outlook (2024-2034) 6.1% 2,600 openings/yr Employment (2025) 23,220 Wage Percentiles 25th $46,750 75th $66,620 Typical Education High school diploma or equivalent On-the-Job Training Moderate-term on-the-job training or apprenticeship Highest Paying States HawaiiMassachusettsAlaska Top Industries Cross-industry Certification Optional (manufacturer or ABYC certification available) 2025 data | SOC 49-3051 | Source: BLS OEWS What motorboat mechanics and service technicians earn across the pay scale Use this chart on your site (free) This chart is free to republish. Copy the code below; it credits TradeCareerPath.com with a link back to this page. Chart by TradeCareerPath.com What Marine Technicians Do Marine technicians inspect, service, and repair mechanical and electrical systems on boats and watercraft. They diagnose issues with engines, fuel systems, steering, and electronic controls. Typical Responsibilities Inspect, repair, and replace marine engines and propeller systemsDiagnose mechanical and electrical malfunctionsMaintain hydraulic, fuel, and cooling systemsInstall GPS, sonar, and navigation systemsPerform seasonal maintenance and safety checks Marine technicians blend mechanical skill and technical know-how to keep marine equipment operating safely and efficiently. Key Skills and Traits for Success Strong mechanical and electrical aptitudeComfort with hand tools and diagnostic instrumentsAttention to detail and safety awarenessProblem-solving and troubleshooting abilityAbility to work in outdoor and marine environments Work Settings for Marine Technicians Marine Technicians Work In Boat dealerships and marinasMarine repair shopsBoat manufacturing and assembly plantsGovernment and military maintenance facilitiesIndependent mobile or dockside repair services How to Become a Marine Technician (5 Steps) Most marine technicians train through 1-2 years of vocational or manufacturer-sponsored programs. Earn a High School Diploma or GED Take courses in math, physics, and shop. These provide a foundation for understanding engines, electricity, and diagnostics. Complete a Marine Technology or Mechanic Program Enroll in a trade school or community college program covering marine propulsion systems, fuel injection, and electronics. Gain Hands-On Experience Work under experienced technicians at a marina, dealership, or boatyard. Real-world training is essential for understanding marine systems and troubleshooting. Earn Certifications Optional certifications from organizations like ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) or engine manufacturers (Yamaha, Mercury, Honda) show advanced technical knowledge. Build Experience and Advance With experience, marine technicians can specialize in electronic systems, diesel engines, or management roles at service centers or dealerships. Compare training programs near you Browse program lengths, formats, and start dates from accredited schools that match your goals. See programs near you ↑ Education and Training Paths Pathway Typical Duration Outcome Certificate or Diploma Program 6-12 months Basic marine repair training Associate Degree in Marine Technology 2 years In-depth technical training Apprenticeship or On-the-Job Training 1-3 years Real-world mechanical experience Certification (ABYC, Manufacturer) Variable Industry-recognized technical credentials Career Growth and Advancement Projected job growth for motorboat mechanics and service technicians Use this chart on your site (free) This chart is free to republish. Copy the code below; it credits TradeCareerPath.com with a link back to this page. Chart by TradeCareerPath.com Marine Technicians Can Move Into Senior Technician or Service Manager - leads repair teams and service operationsMarine Systems Specialist - focuses on electronics, navigation, or diesel systemsManufacturer Technician Trainer - teaches dealership or manufacturer classesIndependent Contractor - runs a mobile or dockside marine repair business Cost and Duration of Training Program Cost: varies by school, format and location depending on program and certification levelDuration: 1-2 years for most programsCertification Fees: vary by organization, typically under $300 Marine technology is a specialized trade that combines passion for the water with technical expertise. It’s a great choice for mechanically minded people who enjoy working outdoors. Pros and Cons Pros Hands-on, technical, and outdoor workOpportunity to work with boats and marine equipmentHigh demand in coastal and recreational areasPotential for self-employment or specialization Cons Seasonal work in some regionsPhysically demanding and sometimes outdoor conditionsRequires continual learning of new marine technologies Take the First Step Toward a Marine Technician Career If you enjoy mechanics and the marine environment, training as a marine technician is a specialized trade path in the boating and watercraft industry. Industry Organizations & Certifying Bodies These are the recognized national organizations, unions, certifying bodies, and regulatory authorities that shape this trade. They issue the credentials, sponsor the apprenticeships, publish the codes, and represent workers and employers. American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) Industry-standard marine technician certifications (Diesel, Electrical, Gasoline, Systems, A/C & Refrigeration, Composites).National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Marine industry trade association supporting workforce development.Marine Industry Training and Certification (MITC) Florida-based marine technician training and certification program. Wage and Employment Charts Annual Wage by Percentile, United States - Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians annual wage percentiles, BLS OEWS May 2025 P10 $36950, P25 $46750, P50 $57550, P75 $66620, P90 $79330. 10th $36,950 25th $46,750 50th (median) $57,550 75th $66,620 90th $79,330 Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians annual wage percentiles Percentile Annual wage 10th $36,950 25th $46,750 50th (median) $57,550 75th $66,620 90th $79,330 Top-paying states for motorboat mechanics and service technicians Use this chart on your site (free) This chart is free to republish. Copy the code below; it credits TradeCareerPath.com with a link back to this page. Chart by TradeCareerPath.com Projected employment growth, United States, Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians, 2024-2034 Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians employment 2024 vs 2034 projection, BLS Employment Projections 2024 employment 26200; 2034 projected employment 27800; percent change +6.0%. 2024 26,200 jobs 2034 (proj.) 27,800 jobs Change: +6.0% Source: BLS Employment Projections, 2024-2034 Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians employment projection 2024 to 2034 Year Employment 2024 26,200 2034 projected 27,800 Percent change +6.0% Compare training programs near you Browse program lengths, formats, and start dates from accredited schools that match your goals. See schools near you ↑ Workplace Safety Snapshot BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses data (2023-2024) report approximately 120.2 days-away, restricted, or transfer cases per 10,000 full-time-equivalent workers in motorboat mechanics and service technicians (about 1.20 per 100 FTE). Source: BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses, Table R98. Frequently Asked Questions How long does marine technician training take? It typically takes typically 6 months to 2 years of training. The most common entry path is through a certificate or associate degree program. A high school diploma or GED is generally required to get started. How much do marine technicians make? The median annual salary for marine technicians is $57,550 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025). Entry-level workers earn around $36,950, while those in the 90th percentile earn over $79,330. Pay varies by state, experience, and specialization. What is the job outlook for marine technicians? The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6.0% employment growth for this occupation from 2024 to 2034, which is about as fast as average. Approximately 2,600 job openings are expected each year due to growth, retirements, and workers leaving the field. Do you need a college degree to work as a marine technician? No. A college degree is not required to work as a marine technician. Most people enter the field through a certificate or associate degree program. A high school diploma or GED is typically the only educational prerequisite. Which states pay marine technicians the most? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 OEWS), the highest-paying states for marine technicians are Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Alaska. Median annual wages: Hawaii ($77,740); Massachusetts ($74,160); Alaska ($72,520). Which states employ the most marine technicians? BLS reports the largest concentrations of marine technicians in Florida, Michigan, and New York. Employment levels: Florida (4,810 workers); Michigan (1,480 workers); New York (1,470 workers) (May 2025). How much do experienced marine technicians earn? The top 10% of marine technicians earn more than $79,330 per year, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Experienced workers in this band typically hold senior credentials, supervisory roles, or specialty certifications. What is entry-level pay for marine technicians? BLS reports the bottom 10% of marine technicians earn under $36,950 per year. New workers often start near this level and see pay rise as they accumulate experience and credentials. How many marine technicians work in the United States? BLS reports approximately 23,220 marine technicians employed nationwide as of May 2025. How many job openings are expected for marine technicians each year? BLS projects approximately 2,600 openings per year for marine technicians from 2024 through 2034, including new positions, retirements, and workers transitioning out. The occupation is projected to grow 6.0% from 2024 to 2034, classified as faster than average growth. Is marine technician a growing career? Yes. BLS projects 6.0% employment growth for marine technicians between 2024 and 2034, classified as faster than average. Employment is projected to rise from approximately 26,200 jobs in 2024 to 27,800 in 2034. How much do marine technicians make per hour? The median hourly wage for marine technicians is $27.67, according to BLS (May 2025). Hourly pay ranges from about $17.76 (bottom 10%) to $38.14 (top 10%). How Marine Technician Pay Compares to Similar Trades Side-by-side comparison of Marine Technician and the closest related careers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data (May 2025 OEWS + 2024-2034 Employment Projections). Career Median Pay 10-Year Growth Annual Openings Marine Technician this guide $57,550 +6.0% 2,600 Mechanic & Engine Technician $50,620 +4.2% 70,000 Maintenance Technician $49,590 +3.8% 159,800 Electrician $63,190 +9.5% 81,000 Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics + BLS Employment Projections. Related Careers Mechanic & Engine TechnicianMechanic & Engine TechnicianMaintenance TechnicianElectrician Sources U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025)U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2024-2034U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (2023-2024, Table R98)U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division, Davis-Bacon General Wage Determinations (2026) Marine Technician Salary by State BLS OEWS, May 2025 Filter states State Median annual Top 10% annual Kentucky $50,920 $123,410 Virginia $63,450 $103,840 Alaska $72,520 $102,070 Hawaii $77,740 $97,860 Massachusetts $74,160 $94,500 Washington $63,020 $93,810 Oregon $66,460 $88,410 Texas $53,290 $87,500 Nevada $49,630 $84,220 Colorado $57,050 $83,610 New York $58,940 $83,260 California $62,330 $81,320 Connecticut $63,480 $79,410 New Jersey $71,880 $79,040 Pennsylvania $51,520 $78,960 Minnesota $61,010 $78,780 Vermont $72,350 $78,710 Missouri $43,580 $77,670 Florida $55,680 $77,120 North Carolina $51,430 $76,920 Maryland $60,310 $76,720 Georgia $49,850 $76,070 Rhode Island $58,470 $75,400 Maine $60,510 $75,190 Wisconsin $56,920 $74,550 North Dakota $60,990 $74,490 Arizona $59,390 $74,120 Indiana $51,200 $72,650 Louisiana $53,080 $71,880 Ohio $52,450 $71,400 New Hampshire $56,160 $70,810 Delaware $60,230 $70,790 Alabama $45,250 $69,420 Mississippi $43,800 $68,680 Iowa $49,930 $66,700 Nebraska $45,400 $65,890 South Carolina $49,080 $64,620 Arkansas $45,860 $64,280 Michigan $47,900 $64,020 Montana $52,160 $62,490 Idaho $47,740 $61,540 Tennessee $49,120 $60,880 Oklahoma $39,920 $60,850 Illinois $47,840 $59,780 Utah $46,470 $59,290 Kansas $47,720 $57,770 South Dakota $46,840 $56,560 West Virginia $36,480 $56,160 New Mexico $36,510 $40,030 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.