Marine

Service Technician

Marine Service Technicians are agile and versatile, often fulfilling the role of mechanic, welder and carpenter all on the same day. They work hard to make sure each vessel sets a smooth course. 

As a Marine Service Technician, you’ll constantly put your flexible and persistent nature to the test, as you repair a range of components and systems such as propellers, sails, masts, engines, and navigational equipment.  

Faced with a range of challenges, you’ll need to think fast and tackle complex problems on the spot. At the same time, you’re a top-notch fixer, who constantly rights the ship.

What You'll Learn

  • How to identify engine components  
  • How to select and apply anti-fouling paints 
  • How to repair hulls damaged by osmosis  
  • How to identify commonly used woods by sight, grain, hardness and smell 
  • How to perform basic drilling and cutting operations in marine metals 

Key Job Skills

  • Wood damage identification 
  • Basic power calculations and tests 
  • Laminate repair and re-surfacing 
  • Technical drawings interpretation and creation 
  • Aerodynamics knowledge 

Technical Training

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. To view specific designation details for non-public approved training providers, visit this page.

Technical Training 4 weeks over 4 years
Work-Based Training
4000 HOURS
Salary Range Hourly
$19.23 — $45.00
General Skills
Analytical Coordinated Resourceful Systematic

Program Updates

Please be advised that the Program Outline and Program Profile have been revised. The changes are effective Jan 1, 2018. Please see OPSN 2018 006 for details.

The Exam Breakdown is available for the Certificate of Qualification exam and shows the approximate percentage of weighting per General Area of Competency (GAC).

Program Information

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Marine Service Technicians perform any combination of service, repair, construction or installation of recreational vessels and light commercial vessels, with marine specialty skills in one or more of the following areas: composites technology, refinishing, woodworking, metals, systems installation and rigging. They may be employed by boat repair yards, marinas, yacht manufacturing facilities, yacht clubs, marine dealerships or specialty marine service businesses. 

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Challenge the

Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

OR

If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please refer to the application form on whether this trade qualifies.