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Engine Cadet Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Waters Hardware

Small Engine Mechanic- Manhattan

Manhattan, KS · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Job Summary The Small Engine Mechanic is responsible for diagnosing, repairing, servicing, and ... Cub Cadet equipment * Pressure washers * Tillers * Aerators * Concrete equipment * Generators * Air ...

All JobsEngine Cadet JobsEngine Cadet Jobs in Kansas

Engine Cadet information

See Kansas salary details

$10

$19

$33

How much do engine cadet jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for engine cadet in Kansas is $19.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an engine cadet?

Engine Cadets are entry-level trainees on board ships who are pursuing a career as marine engineers. They work under the supervision of licensed engineers to gain practical experience with the operation, maintenance, and repair of a vessel’s engine room and machinery. Their training includes tasks such as assisting with routine maintenance, learning safety procedures, and familiarizing themselves with engine room systems. This hands-on experience is essential for obtaining the certifications required to become a licensed marine engineer.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for an engine cadet during a voyage?

As an Engine Cadet, you’ll typically be involved in assisting licensed engineers with daily maintenance, repair, and operation of the ship’s machinery. This includes tasks such as monitoring engine parameters, performing routine checks, and participating in safety drills. You'll also have the opportunity to learn about the ship’s various mechanical systems, gain hands-on experience with troubleshooting, and develop a solid understanding of maritime safety protocols. Working closely with senior engineers and technical staff, you’ll be mentored throughout your training, which is essential for progressing toward becoming a licensed marine engineer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engine cadet, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engine Cadet, you need a foundational understanding of marine engineering principles, basic mechanical skills, and completion of a maritime academy or approved training program. Familiarity with engine room machinery, maintenance tools, and shipboard safety systems is typically required, along with STCW certifications. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are valuable soft skills that help Engine Cadets excel in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of a vessel's engine department.

What is the difference between Engine Cadet vs Engine Trainee?

AspectEngine CadetEngine Trainee
Required CredentialsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Marine Engineering Diploma or equivalentSTCW Basic Safety Training, Marine Engineering Diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, assisting engine room operationsOnboard ships, assisting engine room operations
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, maritime industryShipping companies, maritime industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Engine Cadet and an Engine Trainee lies in terminology and career progression. Both roles typically require similar certifications and involve assisting in engine room operations onboard ships. The term 'Engine Cadet' is more commonly used in maritime education and training contexts, while 'Engine Trainee' may be used interchangeably in some regions. Both positions serve as entry points for aspiring marine engineers aiming to advance to licensed engineer roles.

What are popular job titles related to Engine Cadet jobs in Kansas?

For Engine Cadet jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Engine Cadet jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Engine Cadet jobs in Kansas are:

Engine Cadet jobs near you

Small Engine Mechanic- Manhattan

Waters Hardware

Manhattan, KS • On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • varies by location
  • Locally owned and operated
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Employee discounts
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Keep Our Customers Working
At Gerken Rent-All & Waters Hardware, our mechanics are critical to the success of our business.
Every repair completed on time helps a homeowner finish a project, keeps a contractor productive,
and ensures our rental fleet is dependable.
If you enjoy diagnosing problems, repairing equipment, solving mechanical challenges, and taking
pride in quality workmanship, we'd like to meet you.
You Might Be a Great Fit If You...
• Enjoy troubleshooting mechanical problems.
• Take pride in doing repairs correctly the first time.
• Like working independently while supporting a team.
• Believe customers deserve dependable equipment.
• Stay organized and manage your workload effectively.
• Enjoy learning new equipment and technologies.
• Value safety and quality workmanship.
Job Summary
The Small Engine Mechanic is responsible for diagnosing, repairing, servicing, and maintaining
customer-owned equipment and our rental fleet. This position performs preventive maintenance,
warranty repairs, equipment inspections, and communicates repair recommendations while
maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient shop.
Primary Responsibilities
• Diagnose mechanical and electrical equipment failures.
• Repair 2-cycle and 4-cycle engines.
• Perform preventive maintenance on the rental fleet.
• Complete work orders accurately and efficiently.
• Communicate repair recommendations to the service team.
• Maintain accurate parts and labor documentation.
• Perform warranty repairs according to manufacturer requirements.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Assist with equipment inspections and rental readiness.
• Support equipment sales by helping customers understand repair and replacement options when
appropriate.
Equipment You'll Work On
• STIHL handheld equipment
• Scag commercial mowers
• Cub Cadet equipment
• Pressure washers
• Tillers
• Aerators
• Concrete equipment
• Generators
• Air compressors
• Rental trailers
• Lawn and landscape equipment
• Additional rental equipment as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
• Mechanical experience with small engines preferred.
• Ability to diagnose and repair mechanical issues.
• Strong troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds frequently.
• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and work safely throughout the day.
• Basic computer skills for work orders and parts lookup.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Valid driver's license preferred.
What Success Looks Like
Our best mechanics are dependable, organized, efficient, and committed to quality. They take pride
in returning every machine in better condition than when it arrived, communicate openly with
teammates, and understand that every repair directly impacts the customer's experience.
Our Standard: Repair it right. Repair it safely. Repair it the first time.