Fluid Power Technician
Also posted as Hydraulic Systems Technician; Shipboard Hydraulics Technician; Hydraulic Repair Technician; Pneumatic Systems Technician; Compressed-Air Controls Technician; Air Systems Technician
A fluid power technician performs hydraulic pumps, valves and actuators, pressure testing and contamination control, and hydraulic schematic troubleshooting to keep shipboard mechanical, piping, and auxiliary systems safe, reliable, compliant, and ready for operation. Most people start with a high school diploma plus employer or technical training rather than a four-year degree.
Below: what it pays, what you'd do, the skills you need, and how to become one.
The role profile
Everything you need to know about this role, the same details employers use to post openings and colleges use to build training.
How much does it pay?
Explore the core responsibilities of this role, from daily operations and equipment handling to safety, quality, and performance requirements.
Service hydraulic components
Maintain, rebuild, and replace hydraulic pumps, valves, and actuators on shipboard systems.
Test and clean systems
Run pressure tests and contamination control to keep fluid cleanliness within limits.
Troubleshoot from schematics
Trace faults through hydraulic schematics to isolate leaks, pressure loss, and slow response.
Read ship system diagrams
Interpret ship system diagrams to locate components and understand system boundaries.
What skills do you need?
Three core skills sit at the heart of this role. You can learn all of them through short, hands-on training.
Hydraulic Components
Servicing pumps, valves, and actuators that move shipboard loads.
Pressure & Contamination Control
Pressure testing systems and keeping fluid cleanliness inside spec.
Schematic Troubleshooting
Isolating hydraulic faults by reading circuits and pressure behavior.
Related roles.
Ready to start your
technician journey?
Get matched with training, apprenticeships, and employers tailored to this role.
