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Logistics · Army career profile

88L Watercraft Engineer

As a Watercraft Engineer, you’ll supervise or perform maintenance and repairs on Army watercraft and auxiliary equipment on marine vessels in order to keep them running at all times. You’ll perform daily systems checks, repair and maintain gasoline and diesel engines, troubleshoot and repair watercraft propulsion machinery, and repair and service lift machinery and engine-related electrical systems. To do this, you’ll train in basic electronics, hydraulics, and shop practices, as well as in engine operation and maintenance. You’ll also train in marine operations, the preventive maintenance of steering systems, and you’ll learn how to inspect and maintain the propellers and staffs.

ASVABMM 99
Training10 weeks of Basic Training + 9 weeks of Advanced Individual Training
Physical demandsSignificant
ClearanceNo security-clearance requirement is listed on the current public GoArmy profile

What the job involves

Typical duties

  • As a Watercraft Engineer, you’ll supervise or perform maintenance and repairs on Army watercraft and auxiliary equipment on marine vessels in order to keep them running at all times.
  • You’ll perform daily systems checks, repair and maintain gasoline and diesel engines, troubleshoot and repair watercraft propulsion machinery, and repair and service lift machinery and engine-related electrical systems.
  • To do this, you’ll train in basic electronics, hydraulics, and shop practices, as well as in engine operation and maintenance.
  • You’ll also train in marine operations, the preventive maintenance of steering systems, and you’ll learn how to inspect and maintain the propellers and staffs.

Transferable experience

Skills learned

Maintenance & RepairsElectronics & HydraulicsInternal Combustion Engine TheoryInterest in machines and mechanicsWorking with handsEnjoy physical work

Education insight

Training may support future education.

Estimated potential recommendation range: 0–9 semester hours.

EnlistReady estimate based on the longest training segment stated in the current public profile (10 weeks). Actual recommendations appear on an individual Joint Services Transcript and each college decides what it will accept and how credits apply.

Related degree ideas

  • Supply Chain Management
  • Transportation and Logistics

Civilian connection

Potential civilian jobs related to 88L experience.

Military experience does not guarantee civilian employment or a salary outcome. Requirements vary by employer, location, education, certification, licensing, and experience.

Potential role

Ship & Watercraft Engineer

Illustrative salary information: $38,000–$85,000 illustrative U.S. range; verify the matching BLS occupation and local market

Example employers: Distribution centers, Transportation providers, Manufacturers

Credential note: A civilian license, certification, academy, or employer-approved credential may be required.

Search current Ship & Watercraft Engineer jobs on Indeed ↗
Potential role

Motorboat Mechanic

Illustrative salary information: $38,000–$85,000 illustrative U.S. range; verify the matching BLS occupation and local market

Example employers: Distribution centers, Transportation providers, Manufacturers

Credential note: A civilian license, certification, academy, or employer-approved credential may be required.

Search current Motorboat Mechanic jobs on Indeed ↗
Potential role

Sailor

Illustrative salary information: $38,000–$85,000 illustrative U.S. range; verify the matching BLS occupation and local market

Example employers: Distribution centers, Transportation providers, Manufacturers

Credential note: A civilian license, certification, academy, or employer-approved credential may be required.

Search current Sailor jobs on Indeed ↗

Verify important details

Official and supporting sources

Keep exploring

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