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Small Boat Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 are Small Boat Engineers?

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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Small Boat Engineer jobs
Infographic showing various Small Boat Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Small Boat Engineering Technician Instructor

Amentum

San Diego, CA • On-site

$28.44 - $35.01/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


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 for facility 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 at Labor Laws Posters.