Boat Operative

SLR Recruitment; Gosport; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A marine operations company is seeking a Boatyard Operative to support the safe and efficient operations at their boatyard in Gosport. This hands-on role includes vessel handling, machinery operation, site maintenance, and customer service, all while maintaining high standards of health and safety. Candidates should have relevant qualifications, experience in a similar environment, and the ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions. The position offers a competitive salary and opportunities for career progression within the industry.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Training and development

Uniform and PPE provided

Opportunities for progression

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Existing qualifications e.g., forklift, crane, slinger, VHF, first aid.
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Flexible with working hours, including occasional weekends.

Responsibilities

• Assist with vessel lifting, launching, and berthing operations.
• Operate boat hoists, mobile cranes, and boat transporters.
• Carry out routine maintenance of pontoons and public spaces.

Skills

Full UK driving licence

Good communication skills

Physically fit for manual handling tasks

Experience in boatyard/marina environment

Basic mechanical or technical aptitude

Job description

Are you a Boatyard Operative looking for a new role?

SLR Recruitment are seeking a Boatyard Operative to join a professional team at Victoria Quay. This is a varied, hands‑on role supporting the safe, efficient, and well‑presented operation of our boatyard. Working within a structured operational environment, you will contribute to vessel handling activities, machinery operation, site maintenance, and customer service, while maintaining the highest standards of health, safety, and professionalism.

Location: Victoria Quay, Royal Clarence Yard, Gosport
Salary: £26,000 - £30,000 (DOE)
Job Type: Full‑time / Permanent
Hours: 39 hours per week, occasional out‑of‑hours work
Reporting to: Boatyard Operations Manager / Boatyard Supervisor

Key Responsibilities

Vessel Handling & Boatyard Operations

• Assist with the lifting, launching, recovery, berthing, and manoeuvring of vessels
• Support the safe storage of vessels ashore using cradles and boat transporters
• Carry out high‑pressure washing, preparation, and positioning of boats
• Assist with towing boats and pontoon movements where required

Machinery & Equipment

• Operate boat hoists, mobile cranes, boat transporters, forklifts, & tow boat
• Carry out daily checks and basic maintenance of boatyard machinery
• Report defects, faults, or safety concerns promptly

Site Maintenance & Presentation

• Carry out routine maintenance of pontoons, walkways, storage areas, buildings, and public spaces
• Ensure the boatyard is kept clean, tidy, and well‑presented at all times
• Support seasonal preparations and site improvements

Customer Service & Teamwork

• Act as a visible presence within the boatyard, offering assistance when needed
• Work collaboratively with boatyard and UK Docks colleagues
• Demonstrate flexibility, initiative, and the ability to work independently during quieter periods

Administration & Reporting

• Use computer systems to log jobs, incidents, maintenance tasks, and vessel movements
• Report daily activities and issues to the Boatyard Supervisor / Boatyard Operations Manager

What We're Looking For

Essential

• Full UK driving licence
• Existing qualifications (e.g. forklift, crane, slinger, PB2, VHF, first aid, etc)
• Experience in a boatyard, marina, shipyard, or marine leisure environment
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Physically fit and comfortable with manual handling tasks
• Good communication skills & ability to work effectively in a team
• Flexible with working hours, including occasional weekends and out‑of‑hours work
• Willingness to learn and undertake training
• Basic mechanical or technical aptitude

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Training and development, aligned with industry best practice
• Uniform and PPE provided
• Opportunities for progression within the boatyard and wider operations
• Supportive team environment with experienced marine professionals
• The chance to build a long‑term career in the marine industry

If you're interested in this role, get in touch