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Boat Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Terral RiverService

BOAT ENGINEER

Lettsworth, LA · On-site

Terral RiverService, Inc. is currently looking for a Boat Engineer for our line boats to operate, repair and maintain the various systems aboard a vessel. This position reports to the Captain on duty ...

TerralRiver Service

Terral RiverService, Inc. is currently looking for a Boat Engineer for our line boats to operate, repair and maintain the various systems aboard a vessel. This position reports to the Captain on duty ...

Terral River Service Inc

BOAT ENGINEER

Lettsworth, LA · On-site

Terral RiverService, Inc. is currently looking for a Boat Engineer for our line boats to operate, repair and maintain the various systems aboard a vessel. This position reports to the Captain on duty ...

Bowhead

Small Boat Operator

Charleston, SC · On-site

Minimum of one (1) year boat engineer experience in a waterborne environment being highly desired. Physical Demands: * Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds * Must be able to stand and walk for ...

Boomtown Bossier City

Boat Engineer In Charge

Bossier City, LA · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

BRING US YOUR BEST. - These skills and abilities are typically acquired through ten (10) years of experience as a Marine Engineer demonstrating the ability to handle growing levels of responsibility ...

Boomtown Bossier City

Boat Engineer In Charge

Bossier City, LA · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

BRING US YOUR BEST. - These skills and abilities are typically acquired through ten (10) years of experience as a Marine Engineer demonstrating the ability to handle growing levels of responsibility ...

Boomtown Bossier City

Boat Engineer In Charge

Bossier City, LA · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

BRING US YOUR BEST. - These skills and abilities are typically acquired through ten (10) years of experience as a Marine Engineer demonstrating the ability to handle growing levels of responsibility ...

Boomtown Bossier City

Boat Engineer In Charge

Bossier City, LA · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

BRING US YOUR BEST. - These skills and abilities are typically acquired through ten (10) years of experience as a Marine Engineer demonstrating the ability to handle growing levels of responsibility ...

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Boat Engineer information

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$39K

$101.8K

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How much do boat engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for boat engineer in the United States is $101,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a boat engineer do?

A Boat Engineer is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and overseeing the mechanical and electrical systems of a vessel. They ensure that engines, propulsion systems, generators, and other critical components function properly. Their duties may also include performing routine inspections, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring compliance with maritime safety regulations. Boat Engineers work on various types of vessels, including fishing boats, yachts, and commercial ships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a boat engineer?

Boat Engineers require strong mechanical and electrical engineering knowledge, typically with a marine engineering degree or technical certification. Familiarity with marine propulsion systems, diagnostic software, safety regulations, and relevant certifications such as STCW are highly valued. Effective problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills are essential for addressing on-board issues and working with crew. Mastery of these skills ensures the safety, efficiency, and compliance of the vessel’s operation.

Do boat engineers make a lot of money?

Boat engineers typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, certifications, and the type of vessels they work on. According to industry data, salaries can range from moderate to high, especially for those with specialized skills or working on large commercial ships. Many boat engineers also receive benefits such as overtime pay and opportunities for advancement.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for a boat engineer?

Boat Engineers can advance to senior engineering positions such as Chief Engineer, or transition into shore-based roles like technical superintendent, project manager, or fleet maintenance manager. Gaining additional certifications and experience with larger or more complex vessels can lead to higher-level responsibilities and increased compensation. There are opportunities to specialize in specific systems or vessel types, and many employers support ongoing training and professional development. Collaboration with other engineers, captains, and shipyard professionals is common, providing a strong foundation for future leadership roles.

What does a boat engineer do on a boat?

A boat engineer is responsible for maintaining and repairing the vessel's engines, mechanical systems, and electrical equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation. They perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and may operate tools and diagnostic devices, often working in challenging environments and requiring relevant certifications. Their work is essential for the vessel's safety, performance, and compliance with maritime regulations.
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What states have the most Boat Engineer jobs?

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Boat Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

BOAT ENGINEER

Terral RiverService

Lettsworth, LA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Position Summary:
Terral RiverService, Inc. is currently looking for a Boat Engineer for our line boats to operate, repair and maintain the various systems aboard a vessel. This position reports to the Captain on duty under the supervision of the Port Engineer.
Essential Job Functions:
Applicants must be able to work a 28-day-on, 14-day-off or a 28-day-on, 28-day-off schedule.
Job duties are as follows, but not limited to:
  • Operate a vessel's propulsion systems according to the Captain on duty, which includes, but is not limited to refueling, starting the engines, and regulating engine speed and power as directed.
  • Engineers perform routine propulsion maintenance; isolate malfunctions observed during operation and perform repairs.
  • Perform minor repairs on vessel systems (engines, generators, etc.)
  • Performs general maintenance and repair work which includes, but is not limited to
  • electrical, refrigeration, plumbing, ventilation, heating and cooling systems.
  • Record and maintain engineering logs, such as speed and direction change orders and gauge readings.
  • Maintain a vessel's inventory of mechanical parts and supplies.
  • Communicate concerns & job-related issues to the Port Engineer and Captain.
  • General boat cleaning and upkeep.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements
Basic requirements:
  • Must be a high school graduate or equivalent.
  • Must have or be able to obtain and maintain a TWIC.
  • Must have at least (1) one year of qualifying experience operating and maintaining Caterpillar (CAT) and Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD) diesel engines and power generators.
  • Extensive knowledge of marine equipment, engines, and boat systems is preferred.
  • Must have and maintain a valid/current Driver's license.
  • Must have dependable transportation to designated TRS locations, no exceptions.
  • Must be able to work various hours/holidays/weekends.

Physical Requirements
  • The employee must pass a "fit for duty" and be able to meet physical requirements, including (but not limited to) walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, climbing ladders and stairs, and negotiating uneven or moving surfaces.
  • Must be able to work in difficult conditions with exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, wind, heat, etc.)
  • Must be comfortable working aboard boats and barges.
  • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and work at protected heights up to 40 feet.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Note:
This job description provides a general overview of the typical responsibilities and qualifications for a Boat Engineer. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and industry standards.
About Terral RiverService, Inc:
Terral RiverService (TRS) is a Family-owned business with a continually growing footprint of boats and barges throughout most of the inland waterway system of the US. We specialize in bulk storage, material handling, river, road and rail logistics along the Mississippi River system, the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway and the inland waterways of Louisiana and southern Arkansas. With our growing fleet of push boats, river barges, and modern dock operations strategically located throughout the Lower Mississippi River Valley, we are outfitted to transport, handle, and store virtually any commodity needed in the marketplace. TRS has over 600 employees and has operations in multiple states.

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