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Boat Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Record and maintain engineering logs, such as speed and direction change orders and gauge readings ... General boat cleaning and upkeep. * Performs other related duties as assigned. Requirements Basic ...

Record and maintain engineering logs, such as speed and direction change orders and gauge readings ... General boat cleaning and upkeep. * Performs other related duties as assigned. Requirements Basic ...

Record and maintain engineering logs, such as speed and direction change orders and gauge readings ... General boat cleaning and upkeep. * Performs other related duties as assigned. Requirements: Basic ...

Senior Electric Powertrain Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$121K - $158K/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 years of ...

Amentum, a global leader in advanced engineering, technical, and professional services serving the US government, allies and critical infrastructure sectors, is seeking a Boat Engineerto support ...

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 years of ...

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 ...

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Boat Engineering information

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$17

$33

$47

How much do boat engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat engineering in the United States is $33.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.44 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by boat engineers during vessel maintenance and how can they be addressed?

Boat engineers often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex mechanical issues, accessing hard-to-reach components, and working in variable weather or sea conditions. Effective troubleshooting skills and a thorough understanding of marine systems are essential. Regular preventive maintenance, clear communication with the crew, and staying updated on the latest maritime technologies can help address these challenges and ensure smooth vessel operations.

What boat jobs pay the most?

In boat engineering, senior roles such as marine chief engineers and project managers tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions require extensive experience, certifications, and technical skills in systems maintenance, safety standards, and vessel operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Boat Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boat Engineer, you need a solid background in marine engineering, mechanical systems, and electrical maintenance, often supported by a degree in marine engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, engine diagnostic tools, and certifications like STCW are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the safety, efficiency, and reliability of vessel operations in challenging marine environments.

What engineers make $500,000?

In the field of boat engineering, senior engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-demand sectors like luxury yacht design or offshore engineering. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, management responsibilities, and working in regions with high living costs or premium markets.

What is the difference between Boat Engineering vs Marine Engineering?

AspectBoat EngineeringMarine Engineering
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in Marine or Mechanical Engineering, with certifications in boat design and maintenanceRequires a degree in Marine Engineering, often with additional certifications in ship systems and safety
Work EnvironmentDesign, build, and maintain boats and small vessels, often in workshops or shipyardsFocuses on ship systems, propulsion, and overall vessel operation, working in shipyards, ports, or onboard ships
Industry UsageUsed mainly in recreational, commercial, and small vessel industriesApplied in large ships, cargo vessels, and naval ships

Boat Engineering and Marine Engineering share overlapping skills and certifications, but Boat Engineering primarily focuses on smaller vessels and design, while Marine Engineering deals with larger ships and complex systems. Both roles are essential in the maritime industry, with distinct work environments and specializations.

What is boat engineering?

Boat engineering is the field of designing, building, and maintaining boats and other marine vessels. It combines principles of mechanical, electrical, and marine engineering to ensure that boats are safe, efficient, and seaworthy. Boat engineers work on propulsion systems, hull design, electrical systems, and onboard technology, adapting designs for different types of vessels such as yachts, ferries, or cargo ships. They may also be involved in repairs, upgrades, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

What engineers work on boats?

Boat engineering involves various engineers such as marine engineers, naval architects, and mechanical engineers who design, build, and maintain ships and marine vessels. These professionals often work with specialized tools and require knowledge of maritime regulations, materials, and propulsion systems to ensure vessel safety and efficiency.

Do marine engineers get paid well?

Marine engineers, a key role in boat engineering, typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in shipyards, ports, or onboard vessels, with salaries generally reflecting the specialized skills and technical knowledge required for designing, maintaining, and repairing marine systems.
More about Boat Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Boat Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Boat Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Boat Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Boat Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Boat Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,760 per year, or $33.1 per hour.
Small Boat Engineering Technician Instructor

Small Boat Engineering Technician Instructor

Pae

San Diego, CA

$28.44 - $35.01/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Amentum is actively seeking a Small Boat Engineering Technician Instructor with expertise in small craft and shipboard propulsion and auxiliary systems. This position is ideally suited for individuals with Engineering Department experience, proficient in Marine Propulsion, Electrical, Auxiliary and control systems. Work is performed at a Navy Training Command located at Naval Amphibious (NAB) Coronado, CA.
Responsibilities:

  • Conduct preventive and corrective maintenance

  • Operate and control casualties of propulsion systems in-port and underway on small navy watercraft

  • Execute pre-start and post-operation checks

  • Adhere to Amentum's Ethics Program, Workplace Environment, and Occupational Safety standards

  • Maintain cleanliness of assigned work areas or craft


Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be able to obtain and maintain facility credentials/authorization. Note: US Citizenship is required forfacility credentials/authorization at this work location.

  • Six (6) years of experience as a Navy Engineman/Navy Construction Mechanic/Navy Electrician's Mate OR equivalent civilian experience

  • Experience as a Navy Engineman/Navy Construction Mechanic/Navy Electrician's Mate OR equivalent civilian experience

  • Ability to perform classroom instruction, underway laboratory training, preventative and corrective maintenance of Navy craft and support equipment

  • Qualified as a Navy Second Class Swimmer or equivalent

  • Availability to work alternate schedules as required by training needs

  • Willingness to work occasional overtime

  • Ability to work in both indoor and outdoor environments and conditions

  • Ability to perform limited travel, as needed


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior experience as a Navy Engineman, Electrician or Electronics Technician with Improved Navy Lighterage System (INLS), Maritime Prepositioning Force Utility Boat (MPFUB), Lighter Amphibious Resupply Cargo (LARC), Combat Rubber Raiding Craft (CRRC) or Amphibious Bulk Liquid Transfer System (ABLTS).

  • Familiarity with CAT C18 & C4.4, John Deere 6081, Cummins QSM-11, Evinrude Outboard Engines, Hamilton and Wartsila Waterjets, hydraulic and electrical systems.

  • Experience with 460 and 115 Vac distribution systems, 24 Vdc, diesel engine electronic control systems and programmable logic controllers.

  • Experience performing preventive and corrective maintenance and preservation of Navy small craft.

  • Military Instructor certification.


Service Contract Act (SCA) Compensation & Benefits:
This is an hourly, overtime-eligible position that falls under the Service Contract Act (SCA). In accordance with the Health and Welfare provisions of the SCA, and in addition to your base hourly rate, you may be eligible to receive an additional health and welfare payment for each hour you work to ensure compliance with the minimums set forth by the act. The amount you are entitled to receive will vary depending upon the fringe benefits you select now and in the future.

Service Contract Act (SCA) Compensation & Benefits:

This is an hourly, overtime-eligible position that falls under the Service Contract Act (SCA). In accordance with the Health and Welfare provisions of the SCA, and in addition to your base hourly rate, you may be eligible to receive an additional health and welfare payment for each hour you work to ensure compliance with the minimums set forth by the act. The amount you are entitled to receive will vary depending upon the fringe benefits you select now and in the future.

Compensation Details:

$28.44 - 35.01

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

03/18/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.