Boatyard Operative

Position: Boatyard Operative

Job ID: 2094/55

Location: Gosport

Rate/Salary: £26 - £30K

Benefits: Training & development, PPE & uniform, progression opportunities

Type: Permanent / Full-Time

HSB Technical Ltd is a specialist recruiter within the Power & Propulsion, Shipbuilding, Maritime Shipping, Energy and Subsea sectors – visit: www.hsbtechnical.com for a list of our vacancies. We have a number of permanent and contract vacancies for multiple businesses across the UK and overseas.

The below job description outlines the position of Boatyard Operative.

Typically, this person will bring proven hands-on experience from a marina or boatyard environment and will play a key role in supporting safe marine operations, vessel movements, and the overall presentation of the site. The role requires practical marine knowledge, a strong safety mindset, and the ability to work confidently around boats and lifting equipment.

HSB Technical’s client is a well-established marine organisation with a strong reputation for professionalism and operational excellence.

Duties and responsibilities of the Boatyard Operative:

• Support day-to-day marina and boatyard activities, including the movement, berthing, and handling of vessels.
• Assist with lifting operations and the safe positioning of boats ashore using appropriate supports and equipment.
• Prepare vessels for storage or relaunch, including pressure washing and basic handling tasks.
• Operate and assist with marine plant and equipment such as hoists, transporters, forklifts, and workboats.
• Complete routine equipment inspections and report any mechanical or safety-related issues.
• Carry out general upkeep of hardstanding areas, pontoons, access routes, and on-site facilities.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and presentation across the marina and boatyard.
• Act as a point of contact for customers, contractors, and visiting crews, offering a helpful and professional service.
• Work effectively within the wider boatyard team while being capable of working independently when required.
• Record vessel movements, maintenance activities, and incidents using internal systems.
• Provide regular operational updates to the Boatyard Supervisor or Operations Manager.

Qualifications and requirements for the Boatyard Operative:

• Essential: Demonstrable experience working within a marina, boatyard, or marine leisure setting
• Good awareness of safe working practices around boats, lifting operations, and marine equipment
• Comfortable with physical, outdoor work in a marine environment throughout the year
• Reliable, proactive, and safety-focused approach to tasks
• Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of an operational team
• Flexible attitude towards working hours, including occasional weekends and call-outs
• Full UK driving licence
• Willingness to undertake further training and certification
• Practical mechanical or technical ability
• Relevant marine or plant qualifications (Forklift, Crane, Slinger/Signaller, PB2, VHF, First Aid, etc.) – advantageous

This vacancy is being advertised by HSB Technical Ltd, who have been appointed to act as a recruitment partner for this role.