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Marine Mechanic

Skilled Trades · Marine Engine Services Market estimate

Service and repair outboard motors, boat engines and onboard systems for tour operators, fishermen, marinas and yacht owners. Marine mechanics are needed along Jamaica's tourism coast in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril and Port Antonio.

Salary Breakdown

$900,000 JMD – $1,400,000 JMD
0 - 2 years

Apprentice or helper servicing outboards and assisting with engine overhauls. Indicative market estimate, not a published salary scale.

Estimated Take-Home Pay

Based on the midpoint of the Entry salary range ($1,150,000 JMD), after NIS, NHT, Education Tax, and PAYE.

Est. Net / Month$88,950 JMD
Est. Net / Year$1,067,401 JMD
Show deduction breakdown
Gross (annual)
$1,150,000 JMD
NIS (3%)
−$34,500 JMD
NHT (2%)
−$23,000 JMD
Education Tax
−$25,098 JMD
PAYE Income Tax
−$0 JMD
Net (annual)
$1,067,401 JMD

Estimate only — illustrative rates and thresholds, not tax advice. Confirm current figures with Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).

Career Path Roadmap

  1. 1

    Build Technical Foundations

    CSEC Mechanical Engineering Technology, Physics and Mathematics are helpful.

    Secondary school
  2. 2

    Learn Engine Repair

    Complete a HEART/NSTA Trust motor vehicle or small engine repair programme.

    1 - 2 years
  3. 3

    Apprentice at a Marina or Boat Yard

    Work with an experienced marine mechanic on outboards, diesel inboards and boat electrics.

    1 - 3 years
  4. 4

    Get Manufacturer Certification

    Complete outboard engine manufacturer training and marine electrical courses.

    Ongoing
  5. 5

    Specialise or Start a Business

    Serve tour boat fleets and yachts, or open a marine repair shop.

    3+ years
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Required Education

  • CSEC Mechanical Engineering Technology and Mathematics (advantage)
  • Engine repair certificate (HEART/NSTA Trust)
  • Marine engineering short courses (advantage)

Common Local Certifications

  • HEART/NSTA Trust Small Engine / Motor Vehicle Repair
  • Outboard engine manufacturer certifications
  • Caribbean Maritime University marine engineering short courses
  • STCW Basic Safety (for work at sea)

Where to Train

Caribbean Maritime University

Kingston & St. Andrew · Public University
Accredited 4 accredited programmes

A recommended place to train as a Marine Mechanic

Local Institutions Offering Programs

  • HEART/NSTA Trust
  • Caribbean Maritime University (CMU)
  • Employer route: marinas and boat yards (apprenticeships)