Shipwright

Job ID: 2094/58
Location: Gosport
Rate/Salary: £18.73 per hour/ 39 hours a week. 
Type: Full-time 

HSB Technical Ltd is a specialist recruiter within the Power & Propulsion, Shipbuilding, Shipping & Energy and Aerospace sectors. We have a number of permanent and contract vacancies for multiple businesses across the UK and overseas.

We are seeking an experienced and versatile Shipwright to work on ocean-going vessels, supporting both new build and refit projects. This role is suited to a well-rounded tradesperson with strong experience across boatbuilding, repair, outfitting, and finishing.

The successful candidate will be involved in all aspects of vessel construction and maintenance, from structural work through to final finishing, ensuring high standards of workmanship throughout.

Key Responsibilities: Shipwright:

• Carry out general shipwright duties on ocean-going vessels, including build, repair, and refit work 
• Undertake out fitting tasks including installation and fitting of internal and external components 
• Perform structural and cosmetic repairs to hulls and superstructures 
• Assist with basic marine plumbing systems, including installation and maintenance where required 
• Carry out laminating and GRP repair work where applicable 
• Prepare and finish surfaces including sanding, fairing, painting, varnishing, and touch-ups 
• Conduct paint mixing and colour matching to a high standard 
• Work with a variety of materials including GRP, wood, aluminium, and steel 
• Interpret and work from technical drawings and specifications 
• Use hand tools and workshop machinery safely and effectively 
• Assist with vessel movements including slipping, launching, and general yard duties 
• Ensure all work is completed in line with health & safety standards and quality expectations 

Essential Skills & Experience for a Shipwright:

• Proven experience as a Shipwright or Boat builder on ocean-going or similar vessels 
• Strong background in out fitting, repair, and general marine construction 
• Experience with GRP, laminating, and composite repairs 
• Competent in painting, finishing, and colour matching 
• Basic marine plumbing knowledge and ability to carry out installations/repairs 
• Good carpentry and fitting skills 
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings 
• Experience working to high standards on marine projects 
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team 

Desirable:

• Experience across multiple vessel types (commercial, leisure, or defence)
• Forklift or yard-based certifications 
• Previous experience in refit or repair environments

This vacancy is being advertised by HSB Technical who have been appointed to act as the recruitment consultancy for this role.