Overview

Marine Systems Mechanical Technicians (MSMTs) are members of a ship’s engineering department, responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the mechanical and structural systems on HMC ships and submarines.

As an MSMT you’ll work directly with ship engines, pumps, compressors, and other machinery that provide propulsion, power, water and environmental control. The role is hands‑on and physically engaged – inspecting equipment, diagnosing faults, performing repairs, and responding to mechanical emergencies both at sea and ashore.

Systems you’ll support

- Ship propulsion and engine systems
- Power generation and mechanical support equipment
- Fuel, lubrication and fluid systems
- Auxiliary machinery (cooling, hydraulics, compressed air)
- HVAC and refrigeration systems
- Freshwater production and environmental systems
- Damage control, firefighting and bilge/ballast systems
- Shipboard mechanical maintenance, fabrication and repair

In this role you’ll develop strong mechanical and problem‑solving skills while working as part of a highly integrated engineering team. Whether deployed at sea or supporting fleet operations ashore, MSMTs play a critical role in keeping Royal Canadian Navy ships propelled, operational and mission‑ready.

Work setting

MSMTs spend most of their career on board ships based in either Halifax, Nova Scotia, or Esquimalt, British Columbia. Duties include repairing and maintaining equipment and participating in ship‑wide evolutions such as fueling. While at sea, all members of the ship’s company stand watch in shifts; when the ship is alongside, MSMTs typically work a regular day‑shift schedule. Junior MSMTs may also perform general duties such as cleaning, painting, cafeteria work or loading supplies.

Entry requirements

The minimum acceptable education is completion of provincial Grade 10, including Grade 10 Applied Math and Grade 10 Applied Science.





Because the position requires specialty training, the CAF will sponsor successful recruits to attend a Canadian college diploma program. Successful candidates receive a full‑time salary including medical and dental care, and vacation pay, in exchange for a period of service with the CAF.

Training

The first stage is the Basic Military Qualification course. Afterwards, MSMTs attend Naval Fleet School Pacific (Esquimalt) or Naval Fleet School Atlantic (Halifax). Training lasts 3 months and covers basic mechanical, electrical and hull systems theory, preventive and corrective maintenance, propulsion and ancillary engineering rounds, equipment flash‑up and shut‑down procedures, emergency responses, and repair of watertight and non‑watertight closures.

Following classroom training, MSMTs receive hands‑on training aboard a ship to apply the skills in real‑life scenarios. They may also pursue specialized skills such as small‑boat mechanic, technical support for marine helicopter operations, welding, fabrication/machining, diesel maintenance, gas turbine maintenance, and refrigeration.

Advanced courses include advanced mechanical maintenance, plant operation and watch supervision, advanced firefighting/damage control, refit management, equipment lifecycle management, maintenance management, and project management.

Part‑time options

The position is available for part‑time employment with the Primary Reserve. Reserve Force members typically serve at a Naval Reserve Division in their community, and may also volunteer for deployment on military missions. MSMT‑Reserve duties mirror Regular Force MSMTs, with emphasis on mechanical and structural system operations aboard RCN ships and support of small‑boat maintenance and ANSU training. Part‑time reservists are paid 93% of Regular Force rates and receive benefits including a pension plan and potential reimbursement for civilian education.

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📌 Marine Systems Mechanical Technician (Kitchener)
🏢 Canadian Armed Forces | Forces armées canadiennes
📍 Kitchener