Mechanic plumber

The missions of the marine mechanic / plumber

The marine mechanic / plumber's role in the nautical industry demands precision and adaptability. The marine mechanic / plumber is involved in the preparation and installation of propulsion engines as well as all motorisation network components in the engine compartments: cooling circuits, fuel supply, exhaust systems. He/she works in a 2x8 shift pattern and is briefed at the start of each shift on the tasks to be carried out. The connection between mechanics and plumbing comes naturally on a boat, as an engine is always accompanied by a multitude of interdependent fluid circuits.

What I enjoy most is the act of building. We receive an empty hull and gradually we add elements that bring something to life. I really like that side of the job.

Marine mechanic / plumber

On a daily basis, the marine mechanic / plumber prepares his/her tools before working directly aboard boats under construction. He/she unpacks and prepares propulsion engines — which can reach up to 230 horsepower — carefully sealing all openings to prevent dust from entering and potentially damaging turbos or injection pumps. He/she then moves the engine to the propulsion compartment and installs the various components. The work sits between assembly line production and bespoke craftsmanship, with each boat presenting its own specificities and requiring constant adaptation.

The key qualities required for this profession are patience, rigour, curiosity and adaptability, as every intervention differs from the last.

Initial training and apprenticeship

Several training pathways lead to the marine mechanic / plumber profession. A CAP Maintenance Nautique (nautical maintenance certificate) or a Bac Pro Maintenance des Systèmes de Production Connectés provide a good starting point. For those aiming at a skilled position, a BTS Maintenance des Systèmes, a BTS Moteurs à Combustion Interne or a Bac Pro Technicien de Maintenance des Systèmes Énergétiques et Climatiques (level Bac+2) are particularly valued by recruiters. Additional training or experience in industrial plumbing is also a significant advantage.

These programmes are available as initial training or apprenticeships, through a contrat d'apprentissage (ages 16 to 30) or a contrat de professionnalisation (from age 16, no upper age limit). They are eligible for CPF funding.

Career change

The marine mechanic / plumber profession is accessible to career changers with experience in automotive mechanics, industrial maintenance or plumbing. As demonstrated by professionals in the sector, solid experience in marine mechanics or a related field enables a smooth transition into a shipyard environment where new skills can be developed. Continuing education programmes are offered by organisations such as AFPA or GRETA, and can be funded by France Travail, OPCOs or through a Projet de Transition Professionnelle (CPF de transition).

Career development

After several years of experience, the marine mechanic / plumber can progress to roles such as mechanical team leader, maintenance manager or technical coordinator, overseeing a team's interventions across several boats simultaneously. Further training towards a BTS, a Licence Professionnelle Maintenance Industrielle or an engineering degree in mechanical and energy systems opens the door to technical expert or senior management positions within large nautical groups.