If you have heard about Diesel Mechanics, you must have heard that there are different types of diesel mechanics that specialize in a variety of aspects and settings involving diesel engines.
If you’re also someone who likes the idea of venturing deep into the waters, you should know that there is a diesel mechanic career specifically built for you.
What are Marine Diesel Mechanics?
Marine Diesel Mechanics are skilled technicians who repair and service mechanical and electrical equipment on a variety of marine vessels.
They also help with the maintenance and repair of all types of marine engines, such as inboard and outboard motors and large diesel ship engines.
Why Are Marine Diesel Mechanics Important?
Marine diesel mechanics are technicians that inspect, maintain, and repair important machinery and equipment that helps in keeping the boat or ship running. Marine diesel mechanics are known to fix any arising issues within the mechanical systems of the boat, such as issues with overheating or a stuck fuel rack.
Marine Diesel Mechanics help in keeping the boat running smoothly, and their services can range from working on the fanciest yacht to the most basic fishing boat.
Other types of diesel mechanics are heavy-duty diesel mechanics & mobile diesel mechanics.
Marine Diesel Mechanic Salary & Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average diesel technician salary was reported to be $48,690. Since these government figures are only available for diesel mechanics in general and not marine diesel mechanics, the figures may vary slightly.
According to the figures pulled from job board sites, such as salary.com, the average marine diesel mechanic salary across the country was $72,010, which is significantly higher than the average national salary for a general diesel mechanic.
It is also important to note that these salary figures are highly dependent on a variety of factors, such as education, number of certifications, additional skills, job location, and experience.
The BLS further reported that diesel mechanic jobs are expected to increase by 4% by the year 2031, which is as good as any other profession.
The demand for marine diesel mechanics is also set to rise with an increasing demand for them.
How To Become a Marine Diesel Mechanic?
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a marine diesel mechanic, you might be wondering how to become a diesel mechanic. Let’s find out.
The minimum Diesel Mechanic requirement for you to begin the process of becoming a marine diesel mechanic is first to complete your high school diploma or a GED.
After that, you will need to enroll yourself in a marine diesel mechanic training program that will teach you the basics and complexities of how to work with marine diesel engines and equipment.
There are two main methods or options you can choose from to gain the right training and skills to become a marine diesel mechanic, such as-
Completing General Diesel Mechanic Training
Enrolling in diesel mechanic training is a requirement for an aspiring diesel mechanic, as it equips you with the relevant knowledge and skills you will need to handle the day-to-day tasks of a diesel mechanic.
If you wish to become a marine diesel mechanic, you can opt to enroll in a general diesel mechanic school first and then look for a diesel mechanic apprenticeship within marine-based businesses, for instance, boat dealers.
There are three main ways in which you can get your diesel mechanic training, such as-
- Getting a Diesel Mechanic Degree from a university. (Associate Degree)
- Enrolling in certification programs offered by trade schools and community colleges
- Completing online training programs (most recommended)
Enrolling In a Specialized Marine diesel mechanic training program
Even though they are not popular, there are some programs offered for aspirants who want to specifically train and work as marine diesel mechanics.
These programs are majorly focused on providing training and formal education in working with marine diesel engines while also offering hands-on training classes. The duration of such programs typically ranges from 10 to 51 weeks.
There are also various marine organizations that offer certification programs for aspiring marine diesel mechanics, which also offer you certification after you complete their course.
