Marine Technician – Vessel Maintenance

About the role

The Marine Technician will ensure the vessel fleet remains sea‑ready by maintaining propulsion, auxiliary systems and mitigating corrosion. Working under the Marine Engineer and Technical Operations Manager, the role is shift‑based and on‑call, supporting operations in Mombasa and Lamu.

Key responsibilities

• Install, service, diagnose and overhaul in‑board and out‑board marine diesel engines (e.g., Perkins, Caterpillar, Cummins, Volvo Penta) and water‑jet propulsion units.
• Troubleshoot and repair auxiliary equipment such as bilge and ballast pumps, hydraulic steering, fresh and seawater cooling systems, and marine refrigeration.
• Maintain 12 V/24 V DC and 110 V/220 V AC electrical distribution boards, battery banks, charging systems and basic navigation electronics.
• Inspect and service stern drives, propeller shafts, rudders, zinc anodes and thru‑hull fittings; participate in slipway or dry‑dock overhauls.
• Conduct sea trials with the crew to test machinery performance, monitor operating parameters and resolve intermittent faults.
• Ensure all work complies with STCW, SOLAS, Kenya Maritime Authority regulations and the ISM Code.

Required profile

• Diploma or HND in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering (Marine option) or equivalent.
• Active registration with the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) for diploma holders.
• Valid Lloyds Standard Welder Certificate and STCW basic safety training (desirable).
• Minimum 3‑5 years hands‑on experience with marine engines and auxiliary systems in a shipyard, terminal or port facility.
• Experience with Kenyan Ports Authority assets is an advantage.
• Ability to read hydraulic layouts and mechanical schematics.

Required skills

• Marine diesel engine maintenance
• Water‑jet propulsion upkeep
• Hydraulic system troubleshooting
• Electrical distribution board maintenance
• Battery charging system maintenance
• Navigation electronics servicing
• Corrosion mitigation techniques
• Sea‑trial testing and performance monitoring
• Knowledge of STCW, SOLAS and ISM Code compliance