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Small Boat Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bowhead

Small Boat Operator

Charleston, SC · On-site

Bowhead is seeking a Small Boat Operator to support an upcoming proposal effort of fleet ... Minimum of one (1) year boat engineer experience in a waterborne environment being highly desired.

VETS

Small Boat Operator II

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$36.49/hr

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 ...

Munson Boats

Aluminum Boat Builder

Burlington, WA

$24 - $36/hr

Munson Boats manufactures world class, purpose engineered fire/rescue boats, research boats and ... In the role of Aluminum Boat Builder, you will work amongst a small team of 3-4 personnel to fit up ...

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Small Boat Engineer information

What is the difference between Small Boat Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectSmall Boat EngineerMarine Engineer
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Small Vessel CertificationSTCW Basic Safety Training, Marine Engineering Certification
Work EnvironmentSmall boats, recreational vessels, offshore platformsLarge ships, commercial vessels, offshore oil rigs
Job FocusMaintenance and repair of small boats, propulsion systemsDesign, maintenance, and repair of large marine engines and systems
Employer & IndustryMarinas, yacht clubs, offshore companiesShipping companies, naval, offshore oil & gas

Small Boat Engineers specialize in maintaining and repairing small vessels like yachts and tenders, often working in recreational or offshore environments. Marine Engineers focus on large ships and commercial vessels, handling complex propulsion and power systems. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in vessel size and scope of work.

What is a small boat engineer?

Small Boat Engineers are skilled professionals responsible for the maintenance, repair, and operation of the mechanical and electrical systems on small boats, such as patrol boats, rescue vessels, or workboats. They ensure that the boat’s engines, navigation systems, and other critical components are functioning safely and efficiently. Their duties often include troubleshooting technical issues, performing routine inspections, and keeping detailed maintenance records. Small Boat Engineers play a vital role in ensuring the reliability and safety of marine operations, especially in challenging environments.

What are some common challenges faced by small boat engineers, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Small Boat Engineers often encounter challenges such as diagnosing mechanical issues in remote locations, working in confined spaces, and maintaining equipment under varying weather conditions. Being proactive with regular maintenance checks and keeping detailed logs helps prevent unexpected breakdowns. Strong communication skills are also essential, as engineers frequently coordinate with captains and crew to ensure safety and efficient operations. Adapting to changing situations and staying current with marine technology can further enhance performance and job satisfaction.

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

To thrive as a Small Boat Engineer, you need strong mechanical aptitude, hands-on experience with marine engines and electrical systems, and typically a relevant technical qualification or certification in marine engineering or mechanics. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, engine management software, and regulatory safety standards is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or as part of a crew are critical soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure reliable vessel operation, quick troubleshooting, and safe maritime journeys.
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Small Boat Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Boat Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Small Boat Operator

Bowhead

Charleston, SC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Overview

Small Boat Operator (JBC-2026-25826):

Bowhead is seeking a Small Boat Operator to support an upcoming proposal effort of fleet maintenance. If awarded we will provide all labor, materials, consumables, equipment, transportation, and any other items necessary to perform cleaning, Preventative Maintenance Inspections (PMI), and repair services, to all vessels and support equipment to include mechanical and electrical components of equipment

Responsibilities

Duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Installs, rigging/de-rigging, diagnosing, and conducting repairs on outboard engines, boats, and trailers. 
  • Repairs, maintains, and conducts maintenance and overhauls of outboard engines, boats, and trailers.
  • Modifies and/or installs Hull, Mechanical and Electrical (HM&E) systems.
  • Repairs fiberglass and aluminum hulls and outboard propulsion systems. 
  • May be called upon to complete aluminum hull welding repairs.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • A High School Diploma or GED is required at a minimum.
  • NAVEDTRA 43606-A or equivalent certification required
  • Yamaha or Honda Marine certifications highly preferred
  • Certifications from Mercury Marine are preferred.
  • Employed continuously by a marine factory authorized warranty facility for the preceding 12 months.

  • Certified in one of the following areas by a marine factory authorized facility; gasoline powered I/0, outboard, inboard, and diesel-powered engines.

  • Completed a minimum of two years' experience working full-time as a marine mechanic.
  • Must have knowledge of and experience with repairing, maintaining, and conducting complete maintenance and overhauls of boats, including installing or modifying Hull, Mechanical, and Electrical (HM&E) systems and other equipment installed on boats.
  • Experience must include work completed on fiberglass and aluminum hull boats as well as outboard propulsion systems.
  • Experience conducting fiberglass and aluminum repairs is a plus.
  • Having the capability to conduct aluminum hull weld repairs in accordance with American National Standards Institute/American Welding Society standard - ANSI/AWS D3.7 is desirable but not required.
  • A valid driver's License is required, and qualified candidates must be able to obtain a U.S. passport.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of employees and outside contacts, ability to work well with Customers.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Familiarity with U.S. Navy Organizations, functional missions, and environment.
  • 2-3 Years' experience related to Marine Equipment repairs.
  • Experience with Shipboard-installed Equipment - Marine Diesel Engines, Generators, Transmissions (10SV2000M92 MTU Diesel Engines, QSB5.9 Cummins Diesel Engines, HM521 and MJ-292 Hamilton Jet Marine Propulsion Units).
  • Experience with ship/fleet sustainment support services
  • Experience with complex Navy drawings / vessel specifications highly desired.
  • 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 prolonged amounts of time
  • Must be able to twist, bend and squat periodically

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: There are currently no Security Clearance requirements for this position; however, candidates must be able to successfully pass a background check.  Due to the location of this work, US Citizenship is required.  Bowhead reserves the right to change this requirement if necessitated by business needs or contractual obligations. 

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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