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Watercraft Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operate power boats and watercraft for field sampling and monitoring activities. * Work outdoors in ... Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Environmental Engineering, Chemistry ...

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Watercraft Engineer information

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$25

$42

$76

How much do watercraft engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for watercraft engineer in the United States is $42.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.97 and $51.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a watercraft engineer do?

A Watercraft Engineer is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and overhauling watercraft engines and systems, including boats, ships, and other marine vessels. They work on mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic components to ensure the safe and efficient operation of watercraft. Watercraft Engineers may work for the military, commercial shipping companies, or private marine services, and they often perform inspections, troubleshoot issues, and perform scheduled maintenance. Their expertise helps prevent breakdowns and extends the life of watercraft.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a watercraft engineer?

To thrive as a Watercraft Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, knowledge of marine systems, and typically a relevant engineering degree or military training. Familiarity with marine engines, propulsion systems, diagnostic software, and repair tools is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help you excel in maintaining and repairing complex watercraft systems. These competencies are crucial for ensuring vessel safety, operational efficiency, and mission readiness.

What challenges do watercraft engineers face in maintenance and repair projects?

Watercraft Engineers often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex mechanical or electrical issues in vessels, especially when working within tight spaces or in variable weather conditions. Additionally, sourcing specialized parts for older or custom watercraft can cause project delays. Effective communication with crew members and other engineers is vital to coordinate repairs and ensure safety standards are met. Adapting to new marine technologies and staying updated with regulatory requirements are also important aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Watercraft Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectWatercraft EngineerMarine Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in naval architecture or marine engineeringEngineering degree, certifications in marine systems or naval architecture
Work EnvironmentDesign, build, and test watercraft in shipyards or manufacturing facilitiesMaintain and repair ships and marine systems on vessels or in repair facilities
Employer & IndustryShipbuilders, naval architecture firms, marine manufacturingShipping companies, naval services, marine repair yards

Watercraft Engineers focus on designing and constructing watercraft, while Marine Engineers primarily maintain and repair ships and marine systems. Both roles require similar credentials and often work within the maritime industry, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

How much do watercraft engineers make?

Watercraft engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized engineers with certifications and extensive skills can earn higher salaries, especially in maritime or defense sectors.
More about Watercraft Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Watercraft Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Watercraft Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Watercraft Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Watercraft Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Watercraft Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Watercraft Engineer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Watercraft Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,286 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Senior Technical Writer-Moss Point, Mississippi

Bollinger Shipyards

Gulf Park Estates, MS

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Bollinger Shipyards rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Title: Senior Technical Writer
Location: Moss Point, MS
Position Overview:
The Senior Technical Writer develops, writes, and edits material for reports, manuals, briefs, proposals, instruction books, catalogs, and related technical and administrative publications in print or electronic media.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Writes technical manuals as per government and military standards.
  • Reads and comprehends government contracts, standards, etc.
  • Shipboard validation lead.
  • Enters into configuration status accounting system.
  • Manages ECPs.
  • Researches and comprehends maintenance tasks and operational procedures on commercial equipment loaded aboard watercraft vessels.
  • Other duties assigned or requested by Management.
  • Travels when requested for job related functions, such as publications research and shipboard validation.

Qualifications:
  • A minimum of 5 years of technical writing experience.
  • Experience in developing content for damage control and/or system manuals.
  • Ability to review and comprehend Engineering drawings.
  • General knowledge of watercraft vessels and their installed components.
  • B.S. degree in English or Technical Writing is preferred.
  • Extensive computer knowledge, preferably in Arbortext (Epic) Editor or Adobe Frame Maker and Microsoft Office software.

Skills and Abilities:
  • General understanding of watercraft vessels and their installed components.
  • Knowledge of military publications and specifications, especially for the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Army and/or U.S. Navy preferred.
  • Knowledge of SGML/XML software preferred.
  • Knowledge of Interactive Electronic Technical Publications preferred.

Bollinger is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to minorities, females, veterans and disabled individuals, and without regard to sexual orientation and gender identity.

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