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Boat Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Small Boat Operator II DoD Secret Clearance Required Location: San Clemente Island, CA Position ... Government defense and civilian agencies with technology, systems engineering, as well as ...

Lead Navier's EE team and grow it into the premier electric boat engineering team. Required Experience & Skills: * Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering (or equivalent) and at least 4 years of ...

Senior Electric Powertrain Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Lead Navier's EE team and grow it into the premier electric boat engineering team. Required ... Experience & Skills: * Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering (or equivalent) and at least 4 ...

Modeling Class A surfaces and boat interiors * Owning hardware from start to finish, including ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related Engineering field * 2+ years of industry ...

Modeling Class A surfaces and boat interiors * Owning hardware from start to finish, including ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related Engineering field * 2+ years of industry ...

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Boat Engineer information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$100.4K

$135.7K

How much do boat engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for boat engineer in California is $100,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $115,000.00 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 in the Boat Engineer position, and why are they important?

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.

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 job categories do people searching Boat Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Boat Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Boat Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Boat Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Boat Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,420 per year, or $48.3 per hour.
Small Boat Operator II

Small Boat Operator II

VETS

San Clemente, CA • On-site

$36.49/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Small Boat Operator II

DoD Secret Clearance Required

Location: San Clemente Island, CA

Position Description:

The Small Boat Operator II operates, maintains repairs, and troubleshoots Watercraft Group small boats and related devices such as electronic transmitting and receiving equipment (e.g., radar, radio, television, telecommunication, sonar, and navigational aids) and launch and recovery equipment (e.g., towing trailers, winches). The successful incumbent operates and troubleshoots small boats and equipment and applies technical knowledge and principles, and applies skill in restoring equipment operation, evaluates performance and reliability and recommends changes to maintain optimal performance and continued small boat operations.

The Small Boat Operator II applies basic and some advanced technical knowledge to solve routine problems by interpreting manufacturers' manuals or similar documents. Work requires familiarity with small boats and maritime procedures, in selecting tools, testing instruments, and is reviewed for compliance with accepted practices. This position works under immediate supervision and achieves technical guidance, as required, from supervisor or higher-level technician.

VETS is an EEO Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability.

Company Description

VETS is a SBA certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB). Based in Ashburn, Virginia, VETS has a Southwest operations office in Sierra Vista, Arizona and contract management sites throughout the United States. VETS supports a growing number of U.S. Government defense and civilian agencies with technology, systems engineering, as well as construction and program management support services.