How Much Does a Marine Electrician Make?
If you’re considering a hands-on career that combines technology, the open water, and electrical systems, becoming a marine electrician might be the right path for you. Marine electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems on ships, boats, and offshore equipment. Their work is essential to the functionality and safety of marine vessels, making this a rewarding job with a well-paying salary. But what exactly does a marine electrician do, and how much can you expect to earn?
Understanding the Role
Before diving into the numbers, it’s important to understand what the role involves on a daily basis. This job requires a mix of technical skill, physical endurance, and problem-solving.
Common job responsibilities include:
- Installing and repairing electrical systems on vessels
- Troubleshooting issues with lighting, navigation, and communication systems
- Working with batteries, generators, circuit breakers, and wiring
- Ensuring compliance with safety codes and marine standards
- Conducting routine inspections and maintenance
Marine electricians often work on commercial ships, military vessels, yachts, and sometimes even offshore oil rigs. Some roles may require travel or extended time at sea, depending on the employer and type of project.
Marine Electrician Salary and Payrate Breakdown
Now for the question on everyone’s mind—what is the typical salary or payrate of a marine electrician?
Like many skilled trades, a marine electrician’s salary depends on several factors, including experience level, location, certifications, and employer type.
On average:
- Entry-level marine electricians can expect a payrate of around $20–$28 per hour, which equates to approximately $42,000–$58,000 annually.
- Mid-level professionals with a few years of experience often earn $30–$38 per hour, or $62,000–$79,000 annually.
- Experienced or specialized marine electricians, especially those working on military or offshore vessels, can earn upwards of $40–$50 per hour, with annual salaries reaching over $90,000 or more.
Higher payrates are often available in coastal regions with strong shipbuilding industries, such as Virginia, California, Texas, and the Gulf Coast.
Advancing Your Career in Marine Electrical Work
To increase your earning potential, you may consider:
- Earning certifications such as ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) or a marine electrician certificate from a trade school
- Gaining experience with more complex vessels, such as cruise ships or military-grade equipment
- Specializing in areas like navigation systems, fire control, or renewable marine energy systems
Experience and specialization not only improve your salary prospects but also make you a more competitive candidate for higher-level marine electrician jobs.
Ready to Launch Your Career?
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your skills to the next level, NCW can help you find the right opportunity in the marine electrical field. Our team of experienced recruiters partners with top employers across the country to connect job seekers with career-building roles in construction, engineering, and manufacturing.
Contact NCW today to learn how we can help you find your next job. Let’s build your future—together.