Overview
The Marine Outboard Mechanic is responsible for the maintenance, diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of outboard marine engines and related propulsion, electrical, fuel, and mechanical systems on vessels. This role ensures that all boats and watercraft maintained by Seattle Yachts Service run safely, reliably, and efficiently.
Job Description
Key Responsibilities
- Perform routine maintenance and service on outboard engines: oil and filter changes, gearcase oil changes, water-pump service, spark plug replacement, fuel system maintenance, timing belt / ignition maintenance, and other periodic service required per manufacturer recommendations.
- Diagnosing engine problems and malfunctions — fuel system issues, ignition/electrical problems, overheating, cooling or water-pump failures, gearcase issues, propeller or shaft problems, exhaust or tilt/trim problems, or other mechanical failures common to outboard engines.
- Perform repairs: repair or replace outboard powerheads, gearcases, lower units; service or replace water-pumps, seals, gaskets, fuel and exhaust systems; repair or replace steering/tilt/trim units; handle wiring, controls, and electrical system maintenance as needed.
- Maintain records of all maintenance, repairs, parts replaced/used, work hours, and service history for each outboard motor or vessel serviced — for internal tracking and customer accountability.
- Work safely in marine environments: follow safety protocols for fuel, water, exhaust, electrical, and environmental hazard handling; use required PPE; ensure compliance with all relevant marine regulations and company safety standards.
- Other duties as assigned.
Required
- 2-5 years of experience working on outboard motors, maintenance, repair, teardown/rebuild, and diagnostics.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of marine-specific systems: engines, gear cases/lower units, fuel and exhaust, water-cooling systems, steering/tilt/trim, propellers, electrical/ignition systems, and hydraulic/drive components specific to outboard applications.
- Valid driver’s license and insurance.
Preferred
- Certification from recognized marine-or diesel-engine manufacturer (or marine-mechanic certification program).
- Experience with a variety of outboard brands, models, and power ranges (small outboards up to large horsepower units), including familiarity with both 2-stroke and 4-stroke systems, EFI/fuel-injection, carbureted outboards, and gear-case/lower-unit rebuilds.
- Ability or willingness to assist with broader boat maintenance tasks – hydraulic systems, steering/trim systems, electrical wiring or marine-electrical troubleshooting, and general vessel maintenance (plumbing, hull inspections, winterization, etc.) as needed.
Physical Requirements
- Physical ability to perform demanding work: lifting heavy parts, working in confined spaces, bending/crawling, and sometimes working onboard vessels (dockside or at sea).
- Ability to climb stairs or ladders to access vessels.
- Ability to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Comfortable working in all types of weather conditions.
Working Hours & Compensation
- Full-time position; Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm
- Compensation to be determined based on experience and skill level.
- Benefits: Medical (PPO or HSA available), Dental, Vision, Life, 401(k), Sick, PTO