Boat Builder

Typical Salary

£16,000 To £35,000

Typical Hours

45 to 47 a week

evenings / weekends / bank holidays as customers demand

How To Become a Boat Builder

You can get into this job through:

a college course
an apprenticeship
applying directly

College / University

You could take a college course in marine crafts, like the Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Boatbuilding. Some colleges offer introductory courses so you can see if it’s the right choice for you.

2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

Apprenticeship

You could get into this job by doing a boat builder advanced apprenticeship.

5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

Routes into this Career

Routes into this Career are not listed for this job.

You can apply directly if you've got relevant experience. Qualifications or experience in joinery, engineering, welding, restoration or plumbing can help. It may also help if you've worked with boats or at sea before.

Other Routes

Other Routes are not listed for this job.

Skills And Knowledge

You'll need:

maths knowledge
knowledge of engineering science and technology
design skills and knowledge
knowledge of physics
analytical thinking skills
excellent verbal communication skills
the ability to read English
knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Day To Day Tasks

Depending on the job, you’ll:

plan your work in line with design instructions
use tools to cut and shape boat parts and sections
join sections together using welding equipment or resins
service and repair engines
refit vessels, for example with new electrics or plumbing
install navigation and communications equipment
apply finishes using varnishes and paints
carry out safety and quality checks

Working Environment

You could work in a workshop, at a marina or at a shipyard.

Your working environment may be physically demanding, at height and outdoors in all weathers.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

Career Path & Progression

With experience and qualifications, you could become a marine engineer.

You could also move into boat design, work as an assistant to a naval architect or specialise in maritime equipment sales and support.

You could use your skills to transfer to other branches of engineering or into construction.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

Tips & Information

Professional and industry bodies

You can join The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology for professional development training.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a boat builder from The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology and British Marine.

Restrictions & Requirements

Restrictions & Requirements are not listed for this job.