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Boat builder
Marine craftsperson, shipwright
Boat builders build, repair and refit marine craft from small sailing boats to large sea-going vessels.
Average salary (a year)
£16000
Starter
£35000
Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
45.0 to 47.0 hours
a week
Work Hours
evenings / weekends / bank holidays
as customers demand
How to become
Explore the different ways to get into this role
You can get into this job through:a college course; an apprenticeship; applying directly
College
You could take a college course in marine crafts, like the Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Marine Construction. Some colleges offer introductory courses so you can see if it's the right choice for you.
The following T Levels may also be useful for this role
T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control, T level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
  • 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
  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
More Information
equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
funding advice|https://www.gov.uk/further-education-courses/financial-help
guide to T Levels|https://www.tlevels.gov.uk/
search for courses|/find-a-course
Apprenticeship
You could get into this job by doing a boatbuilder advanced apprenticeship.
This will usually take 4 years to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time with a college or training provider.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide
Direct Application
You can apply directly if you've got relevant experience. Qualifications or experience in joinery, furniture making, engineering, welding, restoration or plumbing can help. It may also help if you've worked with boats or at sea before.
More 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.
What it takes
Find out what skills you’ll use in this role
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
Digital Skills Level
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
What you will do
Discover the day-to-day tasks you’ll do in this role
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.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Your working environment may be physically demanding, at height and outdoors in all weathers.
Career Path & Progression
Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities
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.
Job profile data provided by The National Careers Service.
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