Marine-Industry Employment FAQ

What jobs and career paths exist in recreational boating?

Please visit our career listing, which includes job descriptions and information such as education and skill requirements and job outlook.

What types of education and training do you need to work in the boating industry?

Young people can take advantage of high school vocational courses, as well as numerous college and technical school courses that are available. Someone looking for advanced technical training to prepare for a specific job in boating can also find a great number and variety of industry training, education, certification and professional development opportunities. Learning is a lifelong pursuit. From high school to post secondary to industry continuing-education programs, click here to view a catalog of nationwide training and education programs to find out where you can get the technical education and skills required for the boating industry today and in the future.

Is there any advice for a high school student who wants to enter the marine service technician field?

Yes, here are some important things to consider:

• Familiarize yourself with the marine industry.Work in a boatyard or marina on a part-time basis or during the summer.
• Develop good hand-tool usage skills.
• Take advantage of any technical education in the public school system – especially if they offer diesel, power or electronics courses.
• It is very important to develop an understanding of these areas if you think you’d like to go into the manufacturing/building or maintenance/service side of the industry.
• Investigate post secondary education – collegiate or proprietary (technical school) opportunities.

Is there any advice for a high school graduate or adult who wants to enter the marine service technician field?

There are numerous community, private colleges and technical/vocational schools that offer training. Someone looking for advanced technical training to prepare for a specific job in boating can also find a great number and variety of industry training, education, certification and professional development opportunities. Visit our educational catalog to find the training path that is right for you!

What is the difference between a post secondary collegiate program and a technical or vocational school?

At a college, students complete their general coursework, in addition to their technical coursework/training. You then have the opportunity to complete an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, and have the ability to move into management. At a technical or vocational school, the emphasis is all on the technical coursework. This would allow you the opportunity to get through the training and skills you need and get out into the industry quickly.

Are there any skill sets someone needs to succeed in the marine technician field?

People who enjoy working with their hands and their head, and who enjoy being multi-tasked tend to enjoy working as a marine technician. The technology is getting more sophisticated, so those who are interested in technology will be a great fit for this field.

Are jobs in boating full-time or part-time?

Most are full time positions. There are also summer and part time positions, but boating businesses are full time businesses now, with lots of work to do in the off-season.

What are the working conditions?

Working conditions for the different industry segments can vary. Some technicians work outdoors at docks or marinas, while indoor repair shops and manufacturing plants are well lighted and ventilated. Typically, the marine industry is proud to acknowledge safe and clean working environments that meet or exceed state and federal requirements.

What jobs are people most needed for?

Technicians to service boats are in great demand and short supply. Many positions go unfilled because there are not enough technicians to fill these jobs. Add to the mix that many of the people in the boating industry are aging and the demand is absolutely huge.

What do jobs in the boating industry pay?

Compensation varies with the job and what you can contribute.

What is the future outlook for a technical career in the boating industry?

In today’s hectic world pleasure boating is becoming an important stress reliever. More and more families are turning to recreational boating and, as a result, the industry’s continued growth is developing very stable and rewarding career opportunities for its workers. Unlike the auto industry, recreational vessels are subjected to the elements, such as water, humidity, etc., which in turn, require additional services. As the boating industry continues to expand to meet the needs of its consumers, the employment opportunity for workers and technicians has never been better.