There are several questions regarding a marine electrician. Like, what do they do? What is the scope of the field? Are there any specific qualification requirements? It is one of the lesser-known jobs in most parts of the world. However, a marine electrician plays a critical role in the marine industry.
For instance, they are responsible for electricity on boats, ships, submarines and other marine vessels. Isn’t that quite a role? Let’s learn more about this enthralling job:
What Is A Marine Electrician?
A marine electrician is a professional job description that deals with fulfilling the role of an electrician on marine vessels. These vessels can be boats, ships, cruises, or even submarines. Depending on the qualifications, a marine electrician will have to fulfil different jobs or be positioned in one of these vessels. It also depends on the company and its services.
A marine electrician needs to be well-versed in dealing with all sorts of marine equipment. Marine electricians have to supervise a lot, from a simple navigation system to the electrical parts and supplies. Depending on the size of the vessel, there can be an entire team of these professionals.
Job Description – What Is Expected Of A Marine Electrician?
A marine electrician could work on-boat or at a port side, depending on their job description. They may be available on call for emergencies. There’s an indispensable requirement for marine electricians at the shipyard. They play a critical role in the manufacturing, repairs, and maintenance of marine vessels.
Their skillset often requires them to troubleshoot the issue, conduct repairs, improvise, or even improve a system and build something new. With experience, a marine electrician can become a supervisor, and so on.
- They may have to troubleshoot the problem in the wiring, electrical system, or vessel equipment. Then, they will have to carry out the required repairs or maintenance.
- They may be responsible for overviewing the voltage and condition of the circuit system for the vessel. Similarly, they are responsible for monitoring and predicting any potential threat to electrical systems.
- A special post could be assigned to work on a specific vessel sector—for example, the solar power port or power generators.
- They are also responsible for optimum communication systems.
- As water and electricity don’t mix well, especially for marine vessels, the marine electrician is responsible for bonding. They are also responsible for keeping the vessel secure from any electrical discharge or risk.
In case of working off-vessel, they might have to:
- Examine the vessel, equipment and systems to compile a report. In case of repairs, provide an estimated cost for repairs and such.
- Installation of wiring and systems in the new ship.
- Installation and modification of power generators.
- Testing new marine equipment and electrical innovations.
- In-charge of the entire electrical system in the manufacturing process of new vessels.
Of course, the work profile isn’t limited to these points. There could be other requirements, as well.
Career Advice To Become A Marine Electrician
The job of a marine electrician comes with a lot of responsibilities as they have to be careful about people’s safety. Here is a roadmap to becoming a well-versed marine electrician:
- A High School Degree: You can complete a high school from anywhere. But, getting a degree from a marine school could play positively in the field. Science-based subjects like Computer, Physics, and Maths are essential.
- A Communication Operator Licence: You will need a licence to work on boats and ships for radio or communication devices. This is optional for the electricians that want to take care of the communication sector.
- A College Degree: If there is an option available, you might need a Degree in Applied Science, or Electric Engineering, among other qualifications. At least a certification course from a marine academy would also be integral.
After these three qualifications, you will be ready. However, applying for an apprenticeship and qualifying would drastically increase your chances of getting a job. If you can acquire more certifications or qualifications related to marine electrician, it would play better for you.
A college degree might not be necessary if you’ve spent most of your time in a Marine Academy or training.
Skill Requirements Of A Marine Electrician
- Proficiency in troubleshooting or diagnosing the problem.
- Well-versed electrical, mechanical skills to conduct installations and repairs.
- Quick problem-solving aptitude to provide immediate solutions.
- If applying for a leadership position, then skills like project management, and experience, would be integral.
The above-given skills give you a general idea. Here are some qualifications, like licence, certifications, or degrees, that you can opt for. These will help you acquire all the essential skills:
- A certification, or degree, that proves your knowledge in electrical systems.
- Coast Guard qualifications.
- Excellent understanding of Marine safety protocols, laws, and regulations.
Salary Expectations – Marine Electrician
On average, a Marine Electrician earns around $60,000 per year. Many jobs also pay hourly rates at an average of $40 per hour. Thus, it is a highly lucrative field. Depending on your job requirements, the need for the qualifications will also vary.
With experience, a marine electrician can grow their pay grade by anywhere between $8,000 to $10,000 per year. Other benefits would depend on the company but often include:
- Health, Dental, or both insurance plans.
- Vacation / Parental leaves
- Opportunity to change the work environment or department
Job Scope Of A Marine Electrician
Not a lot of people understand the value and role of a Marine Electrician. Ergo, they end up not aiming for it. Even in the next ten years, there will be a significant need for professionals in the field.
It is safe to bet that only those connected to the marine line know anything about the post. With the rarity, it will remain one of the lucrative options for Australians.
The Bottom Line
There’s no doubt that a Marine electrician is a prestigious position with a lot of responsibilities. If you ever need a well-versed professional in the field, you could contact. Pro Point Electrical Melbourne Electrician. They also offer further guidance as practitioners. Thus, you can learn more about a marine electricians from them.
