Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Ferry Technician

🎯 Role Definition

Are you a hands-on problem solver with a passion for marine engineering? As a Ferry Technician, you are the backbone of our daily operations, responsible for the comprehensive maintenance and repair of our vessels. This critical role ensures our ferries operate safely, efficiently, and in strict compliance with all maritime regulations, including US Coast Guard standards. You will be tasked with everything from routine preventive maintenance on diesel engines to complex troubleshooting of navigational and electrical systems. This position requires a proactive, safety-conscious individual who can work effectively both independently and as part of a dynamic crew to keep our fleet in top condition and our passengers safe.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Marine Mechanic Apprentice
Industrial Maintenance Technician or Electrician
Diesel Mechanic (Automotive or Heavy Equipment) with marine cross-training

Advancement To:

Lead Ferry Technician / Maintenance Supervisor
Chief Engineer (with required USCG licensing)
Port Engineer

Lateral Moves:

Shoreside Technical Superintendent
Marine Systems Commissioning Engineer
Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment (QHSE) Advisor

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform comprehensive diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repair of main propulsion and auxiliary diesel engines, including fuel, cooling, lubrication, and exhaust systems.
Conduct routine and preventative maintenance on gearboxes, clutches, shafting, propellers, and other propulsion train components according to the Planned Maintenance System (PMS).
Maintain and repair shipboard electrical systems, including generators, switchboards, motor controllers, lighting, and 480V/208V/120V AC and 24V/12V DC power distribution.
Service and troubleshoot hydraulic and pneumatic systems, including steering gear, ramps, winches, and various control systems.
Inspect, maintain, and test all vessel safety equipment, such as fire suppression systems (fixed and portable), bilge pumps, alarms, and lifesaving appliances, ensuring they meet SOLAS and USCG standards.
Overhaul and repair a wide range of shipboard pumps, valves, and piping systems associated with bilge, ballast, fire main, and potable water systems.
Perform welding, fabrication, and machining tasks as needed for structural repairs and component modifications, utilizing stick, MIG, or TIG welding techniques.
Respond to and resolve emergent mechanical or electrical failures while underway, working under pressure to restore functionality and ensure passenger safety.
Read and interpret technical manuals, electrical schematics, hydraulic diagrams, and blueprints to perform complex repairs and installations.
Conduct regular inspections and condition monitoring of all machinery and systems, documenting findings and recommending corrective actions.
Maintain and repair onboard HVAC systems, including air handlers, chillers, and controls, to ensure passenger and crew comfort.
Manage the inventory of spare parts, tools, and consumables, initiating procurement requests to ensure critical components are always available.
Execute dry-docking maintenance scopes, including hull inspections, propulsion system overhauls, sea valve servicing, and underwater machinery work.
Operate and maintain vessel monitoring and control systems, including PLCs and alarm panels, troubleshooting sensor and actuator issues.
Ensure all work is performed in compliance with environmental regulations, managing the proper handling and disposal of oils, fuels, and other hazardous materials.
Maintain meticulous records of all maintenance, repairs, and inspections in the vessel’s logbooks and computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).
Assist with the operation of engine room equipment during vessel maneuvering, standing watch as required by the vessel’s manning certificate.
Troubleshoot and repair galley and sanitation systems to ensure they remain fully operational for passengers and crew.
Participate in the installation and commissioning of new equipment and systems, ensuring they are integrated correctly and function as designed.
Provide technical guidance and support to other crew members regarding the operation and care of onboard machinery.
Calibrate and test instrumentation and control devices to ensure accurate readings and reliable system performance.

Secondary Functions

Assist with vessel modifications and special engineering projects as directed by the Port Engineer or Chief Engineer.
Contribute to the continuous improvement and refinement of the vessel's Preventive Maintenance System (PMS) by providing feedback and suggestions.
Collaborate with vessel Captains and deck crew to understand operational issues and schedule necessary maintenance to minimize service disruptions.
Participate in safety drills, daily operational briefings, and toolbox talks to foster a culture of safety and clear communication.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Advanced proficiency in diagnosing, overhauling, and repairing marine diesel engines (e.g., Caterpillar, Cummins, EMD, MTU).
Strong knowledge of marine electrical systems, including troubleshooting AC/DC circuits, generators, switchboards, and motor control centers.
Expertise in hydraulic and pneumatic systems, including the ability to read schematics and repair cylinders, pumps, and control valves.
Competency in welding (Stick, MIG) and metal fabrication for shipboard repairs.
In-depth understanding of USCG, ABS, and other relevant maritime regulations and safety standards.
Experience with marine propulsion systems, including conventional shafts, propellers, and reduction gears.
Ability to operate and maintain a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) for work order tracking and record-keeping.
Skill in using a wide variety of hand, power, and diagnostic tools, including multimeters, pressure gauges, and alignment equipment.
Knowledge of PLC-based control systems and shipboard automation.
Experience with HVAC/R systems, including refrigerant handling and system diagnostics.
Familiarity with fire suppression, bilge, and lifesaving systems maintenance requirements.

Soft Skills

Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex issues under pressure.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with the captain, crew, and shoreside management.
High level of self-motivation and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
Unwavering commitment to safety protocols and promoting a safe working environment.
Adaptability and flexibility to handle emergent repairs and changing operational priorities.
Strong organizational and time-management skills to effectively manage planned maintenance schedules and unplanned repairs.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.
Completion of a certified marine mechanics program, technical/vocational school, or a formal apprenticeship in a related trade.

Preferred Education:

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Marine Engineering Technology, Diesel Technology, or a similar technical field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Marine Technology
Diesel Mechanics
Electrical Engineering Technology
Industrial Maintenance

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-10 years of hands-on experience as a marine mechanic, marine electrician, or vessel engineer, preferably on commercial vessels.

Preferred:

Possession of a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with an endorsement such as QMED (any rating) or a Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) license.
Verifiable experience working on passenger vessels, ferries, or tugboats.
Factory training certifications from major engine manufacturers (e.g., CAT, Cummins).