Boat builder
Marine craftsperson, shipwright

Boat builders build, repair and refit marine craft from small sailing boats to large sea-going vessels.
Salary Range: £16,000 to £35,000

How to become a boat builder
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 Boatbuilding. Some colleges offer introductory courses so you can see if it’s the right choice for you.
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
More information

Apprenticeship
You could get into this job by doing a boat builder 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

Direct application
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.
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
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

What you’ll do
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 and 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.
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