88L Watercraft Engineer

OVERVIEW
Watercraft Engineers are primarily responsible for supervising or performing maintenance on Army National Guard watercraft and auxiliary equipment on marine vessels.

JOB DUTIES

• Perform daily systems checks
• Repair and maintain gasoline and diesel engines
• Troubleshoot and repair watercraft propulsion machinery
• Repair and service hoisting and lift machinery and engine-related electrical systems

TRAINING
Job training for a Watercraft Engineer requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and nine weeks and two days of Advanced Individual Training at Fort Eustis, VA with on-the-job instruction. Part of this time is spent in the classroom, and part takes place in the field.

Some of the skills you'll learn are:

• Internal combustion engine theory
• Repair of electronic and electrical machinery systems
• Service and repair of fuel-injection systems
• Welding and machine shop fabrication

HELPFUL SKILLS

• Interest in shop mechanics, fixing engines and machinery
• Ability to use hand and power tools
• Preference for physical work

REQUIRED ASVAB SCORE(S)
Mechanical Maintenance (MM): 99

Learn more about the ASVAB. 

WARRANT OFFICER TRACK
881A Marine Engineer Officer

FUTURE CIVILIAN CAREERS
The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career with marine transportation, commercial fishing, oil exploration, facility maintenance, heating and air conditioning, or diesel engine maintenance or repair. You'll also be able to consider a future as a marine engine mechanic.