Propulsion Service Technician

Thompson Marine; Spanish Fort, Northern (AL, KY); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Thompson Marine is seeking a Propulsion Service Technician to install, commission diagnostics, repair, and maintain advanced marine propulsion equipment including CPPs, azimuth thrusters, and integrated control systems. The role ensures vessel performance, reliability, and compliance with OEM and class standards, with work locations across the U.S.

Responsibilities include diagnosing propulsion systems, performing maintenance, service and overhaul, PLC controls troubleshooting, commissioning,

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience with marine propulsion systems.
• Ability to read and interpret technical schematics and OEM manuals.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel domestically and internationally for field service and training.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair propulsion systems, including mechanical, hydraulic, and control systems.
• Perform planned maintenance in accordance with Berg Propulsion OEM guidelines.
• Service and overhaul propulsion equipment.
• Troubleshoot PLC-based controls and bridge interfaces.
• Perform commissioning, sea trials, and system calibrations.
• Interpret technical drawings, schematics, and OEM service documentation.
• Prepare detailed service reports and service parts recommendations.
• Interface directly with customers, captains, and operations teams regarding system performance and repair needs.

Skills

Problem solving

Mechanical

Troubleshooting

Reading schematics

Communication

Education

High school diploma; technical/trade school preferred

Job description

The Propulsion Service Technician is responsible for the installation, commissioning diagnostics, repair, and maintenance of advanced marine propulsion equipment. This includes controllable pitch propellers, azimuth thrusters, tunnel thrusters, and integrated control systems. The role ensures optimal vessel performance, reliability, and compliance with OEM and class standards. This position can be based in any U.S. location.

Key Responsibilities

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair propulsion systems, including mechanical, hydraulic, and control systems


• Perform planned maintenance in accordance with Berg Propulsion OEM guidelines


• Service and overhaul propulsion equipment


• Troubleshoot PLC-based controls and bridge interfaces


• Perform commissioning, sea trials, and system calibrations


• Interpret technical drawings, schematics, and OEM service documentation


• Prepare detailed service reports and service parts recommendations


• Interface directly with customers, captains, and operations teams regarding system performance and repair needs

Required Qualifications

Education

High school diploma; technical/trade school preferred

Experience

• 4+ years of experience with marine propulsion systems


• Proven experience with mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems


• Strong troubleshooting ability of mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic systems


• Ability to read and interpret technical schematics and OEM manuals


• Valid driver's license and ability to travel domestically and internationally for field service and training

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Propulsion systems technology


• Marine service background (tugs, offshore vessels, workboats, etc.)


• Familiarity with PLC systems and vessel control networks


• Welding, machining, or fabrication experience


• US Coast Guard or military mechanical background preferred


• Advanced mechanical and hydraulic aptitude


• Strong electrical and electronic diagnostic capability


• Ability to work independently in field and vessel environments


• High attention to detail and commitment to OEM standards


• Effective communication with customers and internal teams


• Strong safety mindset and compliance focus


• Work performed in marine service shops, shipyards, docks, and onboard vessels


• Confined spaces (machinery spaces and compartments)


• Hydraulic oils, fuels, and marine environments


• Noise, vibration, and varying weather conditions


• Requires travel and on-call availability

Qualifications

Skills

Required

Technical

Intermediate

Problem Solving

Advanced

Mechanical

Intermediate

Troubleshooting

Intermediate

Education

Required

High School or Equivalent or better.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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