There are more than 19,000 Ohioans currently employed in the Buckeye State’s pleasure boating industry. There’s a wide range of positions in our businesses. These are stable long-term positions with above market pay plus benefits that can include vacation time, medical benefits, retirement plans and more.
Job Overview
A mid-level deck crew member skilled in deck maintenance, cargo handling, operating deck machinery, standing watch, and assisting with safety drills and navigation. ABs often supervise Ordinary Seamen and report to the Deck Officers.
Education Needed
Experience as an Ordinary Seaman (usually 1–2 years) or equivalent maritime experience.
Completion of Basic Safety Training (STCW), an AB certification/endorsement, and possibly additional specialized training (e.g., lifeboat operation).
Typical Salary
$22–$30/hour (varies by vessel type, region, and experience)
Wiper (Engine Room Assistant)
Job Overview
An entry-level position in the engine room on a ship, assisting with cleaning, maintenance, and basic mechanical tasks. Wipers support engineers by monitoring machinery and ensuring the engine room is clean and organized.
Education Needed
No prior experience is required, but mechanical aptitude is helpful. Completion of Basic Safety Training (STCW) and other entry-level maritime certifications may be required.
Typical Salary
$17–$24/hour (varies by vessel type and location)
Yacht Broker
Job Overview
Facilitates the buying, selling, or chartering of ships by negotiating deals, preparing contracts, and assessing market trends.
Education Needed
Bachelor’s degree in business, maritime studies, or a related field. Previous experience recommended.
Typical Salary
$70,000–$120,000/year
Boat Captain
Job Overview
Operates and navigates boats, ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo while complying with maritime regulations. Responsible for trip planning, weather assessments, and emergency protocols.
Education Needed
Captain’s License
Typical Salary
$60,000–$100,000/year; $30–$55/hour for smaller operations
Boat Detailer
Job Overview
Cleans, polishes, and restores boats, focusing on interior and exterior surfaces. Applies protective coatings, removes stains, and maintains visual appeal.
Education Needed
No high school, GED, or college diploma required.
Typical Salary
$20-35/hour (based on experience)
Boat Yard Maintenance/Yard Attendant
Job Overview
Assists with boat launches, yard upkeep, and minor facility repairs. Operates tools, ensures safety, and supports marina operations.
Education Needed
High school diploma or GED preferred.
Typical Salary
$16-20/hour
Cadet (Deck or Engine)
Job Overview
A trainee position for aspiring officers. Deck cadets assist with navigation and ship operations, while engine cadets assist in the engine room, learning about ship machinery and systems. Tasks are performed under supervision as part of practical training.
Education Needed
Enrollment in or graduation from a maritime academy or training program. Basic Safety Training (STCW) and other relevant certifications are typically required.
Typical Salary
$20,000–$30,000 (stipend or training pay)
Deckhand
Job Overview
Assists with various tasks aboard ships or boats, including cleaning, maintenance, and helping with docking procedures. Ensures the vessel is safe and ready for operations.
Education Needed
No formal education required; on-the-job training provided.
Typical Salary
$15–$24/hour
Electronics Specialist
Job Overview
Installs, maintains, and repairs marine electronics, including GPS systems, radar, communication devices, and navigation equipment. Troubleshoots and updates software and hardware.
Education Needed
Vocational training or certifications in marine electronics, such as NMEA certification.
Typical Salary
$22-35/hour
Fiberglass and Gel Coat Technician
Job Overview
Repairs and maintains boat hulls and structures using fiberglass materials and gel coats. Tasks include sanding, cutting, applying gel coatings, and ensuring structural and visual quality.
Education Needed
No college diploma required. Must have an eye for detail, basic body work and mechanical skills preferred.
Typical Salary
$25-50/hour (based on experience)
Finance Manager
Job Overview
Manages financial aspects of marine businesses, such as loans, budgets, and purchasing agreements. Advises customers and businesses on financial solutions for marine investments.
Education Needed
Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field.
Typical Salary
$65,000–$120,000/year
Fork Lift Operator
Job Overview
Operates forklifts to move boats and marine equipment in marinas or storage facilities. Responsibilities include safely handling loads and routine equipment inspections.
Education Needed
High school diploma or GED; forklift operator certification required.
Typical Salary
$25+/hour
Marina Dock/Fuel Attendant
Job Overview
Greets customers, provides assistance with fueling and docking, and ensures the marina is clean and functional. May handle point-of-sale transactions and minor facility maintenance.
Education Needed
High school diploma or GED.
Typical Salary
$15-22/hour
Marine Mechanic
Job Overview
Repairs and maintains outboard, inboard, and diesel engines on boats. Performs engine diagnostics, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance.
Education Needed
Vocational training or certifications in marine mechanics.
Typical Salary
$20–$35/hour; $45,000–$70,000/year
Marine Technician
Job Overview
Diagnoses and repairs boat engines, electrical systems, and other
Education Needed
Vocational training or certifications in marine technology; certifications like
Typical Salary
$24–$35/hour; $49,000–$70,000/year
Marine Technician Apprentice
Job Overview
Works under experienced marine technicians to learn repair techniques for boat engines and systems. Assists with basic maintenance and shop tasks while gaining skills.
Education Needed
High school diploma or GED; apprenticeship program enrollment required.
Typical Salary
$15–$20/hour
Master Marine Technician
Job Overview
Expert-level technician specializing in complex marine repairs and diagnostics, including engine overhauls and advanced electrical work. Often mentors less-experienced technicians.
Education Needed
Extensive experience and advanced certifications (e.g., ABYC Master Technician, NMEA).
Typical Salary
$30–$45/hour; $60,000–$90,000/year
Marina Manager
Job Overview
Oversees marina operations, including dock assignments, staff management, budgeting, and facility maintenance. Ensures compliance with safety and environmental regulations while fostering a positive customer experience.
Education Needed
Bachelor’s degree in business administration, hospitality management, or a related field preferred. Relevant experience in marina or boating operations may substitute for formal education.
Typical Salary
$21-$36/hour; $45,000-$75,000/year
Marketing Consultant
Job Overview
Develops marketing strategies, creates promotional content, and improves brand visibility for marine
Education Needed
Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, or a related field.
Typical Salary
$55,000–$100,000/year
Ordinary Seaman (OS)
Job Overview
An entry-level deck crew member responsible for cleaning and maintaining the deck, assisting with mooring and docking, standing lookout/watch, and helping with cargo operations under the supervision of senior crew.
Education Needed
No prior experience required, though experience on smaller vessels can be helpful. Completion of Basic Safety Training (STCW) and obtaining an entry-level seaman’s document or endorsement is mandatory.
Typical Salary
$17–$26/hour (varies by vessel type and location)
Parts and Accessories Specialist
Job Overview
Advises customers on marine parts and accessories, manages inventory, and ensures accurate part selection for repairs or upgrades.
Education Needed
High school diploma or GED; experience in retail or knowledge of marine products preferred.
Typical Salary
$18–$26/hour
Rig Technician
Job Overview
Installs, maintains, and repairs rigging systems on boats, including masts, sails, cables, and steering components. Ensures safety, customizes rigging for specific needs, and works with technicians and customers.
Education Needed
High school diploma or GED; vocational training preferred. Certifications (e.g., ABYC) are a plus.
Typical Salary
$20–$30/hour
Sales Consultant
Job Overview
Sells boats and marine products, builds customer relationships, and meets sales targets. Tasks include demonstrating
Education Needed
High school diploma or GED; sales experience is advantageous.
Typical Salary
$45,000–$110,000/year, often commission-based
Service Advisor
Job Overview
Works with customers to identify repair needs, creates service orders, estimates cost of repairs, and communicates job progress with both customers and technicians. Ensures customer satisfaction and efficient service workflow.
Education Needed
High school diploma or GED; experience in customer service or technical knowledge is helpful.
Typical Salary
$50,000–$70,000/year
Service Writer
Job Overview
Coordinates repair services by preparing work orders, providing estimates, and communicating with customers and technicians. Tracks progress and ensures customer satisfaction.
Education Needed
High school diploma or GED; technical experience and higher education recommended.
Typical Salary
$40,000-60,000/year
Steward/Utility Worker
Job Overview
Responsible for maintaining cleanliness in living quarters, dining spaces, and common areas on a ship. Duties may include assisting in food preparation, serving meals, and providing hospitality services to the crew.
Education Needed
No formal education is required, but prior experience in hospitality or food service is a plus. Completion of Basic Safety Training (STCW) certification may be required.
Typical Salary
$15–$22/hour (varies by vessel type and location)
Tug Mate
Job Overview
Located under the US Department of Transportation, Assists the Tug
Education Needed
Attendance or degree required from accredited universities
Typical Salary
$40+/hour
