Re: I need some interview questions answered by a marine mechanic
I don't know how many marine mechanics we have here, so I don't know how many people will answer this. I'm going to answer them in case there isn't many marine techs here, that way you have more answers to choose from. I will point out that, strictly speaking, I am NOT a marine mechanic. I'm currently an unemployed motorcycle mechanic, but I am also a certified Yamaha PWC tech. Both boats and motorcycles are luxury items and the industries are similar, so some of my answers will over lap the marine industry.
Questions:
1. What made you decided to get into the marine business?
A love of it and a genuine mechanical ability.
2. What Kind of risk?s did you have to take to get to the point your are now?
No more than anyone else who has a job in an industry that fluctuates. Marine (and motorcycles) go through cycles. Some years, it seems like boat (and motorcycles) are very popular. Other years, they decrease in popularity. There's always the chance that you could end up laid off. Being good at what you do will usually prevent that though.
3. What kind of previous jobs did you have before your current job ?
Well, my current job is unemployed. Before that, I was a motorcycle tech, motorcycle salesman and sales manager and service manager in a motorcycle shop. Before that, I was a tool and die makes apprentice.
4. What experience do you need for this job if any?
Above all else, you need mechanical ability. I personally believe this can't be taught. I think some people are born with it. It's just how they're wired. My kid brother is an excellent guitar player. He taught him self and he's really good. I could have Eddie Van Halen give me lessons for 8 hours a day for years and I'd still not be good at it. I just wasn't wired that way. I also can't draw a picture. Some people are born being able to draw. You can't teach someone who can't draw, how to draw. Same with mechanical aptitude. You need knowledge to understand how things work. But with out a strong mechanical aptitude, the knowledge won't do much good. You can be taught to perform jobs, like oil changes and the like. But to be a professional, you need to be able to find problems that aren't listed in a manual. Theres a certain type of creative thinking involved.
5. What is the range of work that is associated with your job?
It's limitless. One day it's a complete engine rebuild. The next it could be simple oil changes. The day after that it may be bolting on accessories. Anything and everything needing done.
6. What is the average starting income for a marine mechanic?
That's a tough one. Lots of variables. Depends if you start your own shop or work for someone else. And your location. A boat mechanic in Pittsburgh isn't going to make the same as one in Miami. But the rule of thumb is, it's not much. The sad fact is, for as much skill as it requires, all types of technicians are vastly underpaid. I may be biased, but it's true.
7. How many hours you work a week?
In the busy season, sometimes 60. In the off season, 40 or less at times.
8. What kind of joy does your job give you?
Sometimes it gives tons. Other times, it can be a drag. Just depends. Sometimes you meet the greatest people on earth. Other times, you meet the biggest jerkoffs ever. Speaking for myself, one of my favorite things is taking something that doesn't run, finding the problem and fixing it. Then hitting the key and hearing the motor come to life. At the end of the day, you feel like you accomplished something. When I was in sales, I didn't get that. Sure, I could close a deal, but it never felt as final. Also, taking a machine that is neglected and running poorly and turning it in to a well running, and dependable machine is awesome. Must be how a doctor feels when he saves someones life.
9. What inspiration would you give anyone that is interested in becoming a marine mechanic?
First, be honest with yourself. Do you have the mechanical ability? No training will give it to you. Some of the best mechanics I know have no formal training. Some of the worst I know are people with no mechanical ability who got good training. Chances are, if you made it this far in life, you know whether you're mechanical or not. If your not, even though you may love boats, the job isn't for you. Go into sales or management or something else in the boat dealer. Also, make sure you're doing it for the right reasons. You have to have a genuine interest in being a mechanics and boats in general. If it's just a job, or a way to make money, you'll never have the pride in your work that it takes to be good. Pride in your work is the key. It's what separates a good mechanic from a great one. Every boat needs to be treated like it's your own. Like your name will be on it forever after you work on it.
10. Do you have any regrets for getting into the marine business?
None. Although sometimes I wish I went to college and got a job where I'd make more money, I know I'd never be truly happy doing anything else.
11. What training is required to become a marine mechanic?
This goes back to what I was saying before. The training is almost incidental. The schools give you motors that have been torn down 100 other times. They are sitting on a bench. The nuts and bolts are loose. You learn theory and how things work. But you don't learn the little things that you need to learn. Like stuck bolt removal. Or what to do when a bearing is stuck in a race. Personally, I think the best training is working in the shop environment under people who know their stuff. You will need specialized training in the particular brand you'll be working on, but the do it all schools they advertise on late night tv aren't worth it IMHO. Get a job in a shop. Work your way up from wash boy.
