Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
O*NET 49-3051.00 · SOC 49-3051
Motorboat Mechanic is a solid career choice. Median pay is $58k a year with +4.9% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 2,600 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Tune outboard and inboard boat engines for peak performance
- →Inspect and repair boat steering cables and hydraulic systems
- →Diagnose and fix electrical wiring problems on motorboats
- →Replace impellers and water pump components in marine engines
- →Winterize boat engines by flushing and fogging cylinders
Education & How to Get In
Most Motorboat Mechanic positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Motorboat Mechanic involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Motorboat Mechanic?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Motorboat Mechanic Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians is projected to grow 4.9% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·50% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Motorboat Mechanic make?
The median Motorboat Mechanic earns $58k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Motorboat Mechanic jobs?
Our model puts Motorboat Mechanic at 34 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 50% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress; industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Motorboat Mechanic a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 4.9% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 2,600 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Motorboat Mechanic?
Most Motorboat Mechanic roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Motorboat Mechanic?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Motorboat Mechanic career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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