Outboard Shop Manager

CareerBoat.com; Rhode Island; On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading marine services company is looking for an Outboard Department Manager to oversee service operations in Newport, RI. Your role includes supervising and guiding technicians while ensuring high-quality service standards. The ideal candidate will have at least five years of hands-on experience in marine engine repair and excellent leadership skills. This full-time position offers the opportunity to contribute to a customer-focused team while promoting safety and efficiency in service operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in outboard engine repair, maintenance, and electrical diagnostics.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Engine-specific certifications strongly preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of marine engine systems and diagnostics.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily guidance and support to service technicians.
• Perform maintenance and repairs on marine outboard motors.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant work environment.
• Assist in any service position as needed to meet departmental goals.
• Communicate effectively with customers regarding service needs, timelines, status updates, and repair estimates.
• Perform maintenance and repairs on marine outboard and inboard motors.
• Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical and electrical issues.
• Install new outboard engines, controls, and associated accessories.
• Conduct sea trials and safely dock vessels as required.
• Demonstrate proficiency in major outboard engine product lines, including Mercury, Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha.
• Work with mechanical systems and basic 12V and 24V electrical circuits.
• Utilize diagnostic tools, OEM systems, and service manuals accurately.
• Stay current with OEM certifications, training requirements, and industry advancements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant work environment.
• Adhere to all manufacturer, company, and regulatory safety standards.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and OEM training.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support departmental operations.

Skills

Customer service orientation

Communication skills

Time management

Attention to detail

Leadership skills

Tool ownership

Education

Master Certification (preferred)

OEM outboard certifications

Engine-specific certifications

Boating license

Tools

Diagnostic tools

Basic marine service tools

Job description

Job Summary

The Outboard Department Manager plays a critical leadership role within the Service Department and is responsible for ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. This position oversees daily service operations, provides guidance to technical staff, and maintains productivity and quality standards. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in marine engine repair, strong diagnostic capabilities, and demonstrated leadership skills. This role is integral to fostering a team-oriented environment centered on excellence, innovation, and service.

Location & Schedule

Location: Newport, RI
Schedule: Full-time, On-Site

Position Type: Exempt

Department: Service

Reports to: General Manager

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Provide daily guidance, supervision, and support to service technicians.
• Ensure all work is completed to high-quality standards and within designated timelines.
• Train, mentor, and support junior technicians in skill development and safety procedures.
• Assist in any service position as needed to meet departmental goals.
• Communicate effectively with customers regarding service needs, timelines, status updates, and repair estimates.

Technical Service & Repairs

• Perform maintenance and repairs on marine outboard and inboard motors.
• Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical and electrical issues.
• Install new outboard engines, controls, and associated accessories.
• Conduct sea trials and safely dock vessels as required.

Product Knowledge & Systems

• Demonstrate proficiency in major outboard engine product lines, including Mercury, Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha.
• Work with mechanical systems and basic 12V and 24V electrical circuits.
• Utilize diagnostic tools, OEM systems, and service manuals accurately.
• Stay current with OEM certifications, training requirements, and industry advancements.

Safety & Compliance

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant work environment.
• Adhere to all manufacturer, company, and regulatory safety standards.

Other Duties

• Participate in ongoing professional development and OEM training.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support departmental operations.

Requirements

Experience

• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in outboard engine repair, maintenance, and electrical diagnostics.

Certifications & Licensing

• Valid driver’s license required.
• Engine-specific certifications strongly preferred.
• OEM outboard certifications are a plus.
• Boating license or documented boating experience is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including bending, climbing, and prolonged standing.

Qualifications

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent communication skills.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ownership of all basic tools necessary for marine service work.
• Ability to manage time, budgets, and personnel effectively.
• Master Certification preferred.
• Strong knowledge of marine engine systems, diagnostics, and repair procedures.