Boatyard Operative

Marine Resources Recruitment Ltd; England; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A marine recruitment agency is seeking a Boatyard Operative to join their operations team in Gosport. This hands-on role involves assisting with boat lifting and launching, operating machinery, and maintaining the site. Ideal candidates should have experience in a marine environment, possess good communication skills, and be comfortable working outdoors. The position offers a competitive salary, ongoing training, and a genuine long-term career opportunity in the marine industry.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Ongoing training and development

Uniform and PPE provided

Opportunities for progression

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a boatyard, marina, shipyard, or a similar environment.
• Positive, reliable, and safety-conscious mindset.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with lifting, launching, making ready, and manoeuvring of vessels.
• Operating machinery like hoists and cranes.
• General upkeep of the yard and customer service.

Skills

Experience in boatyard/marina

Safety-conscious approach

Good communication skills

Flexibility around working hours

Physically fit

Education

Full UK driving licence

Tools

Forklift

Boat hoists

Mobile cranes

Job description

Boatyard Operative

Location: Gosport

Salary: £26k - £30K doe

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Hours: 39 hours per week (with occasional out-of-hours work)

We’re working with a well-established and professionally run boatyard on the South Coast who are looking to add a Boatyard Operative to their operations team. This is a hands‑on, varied role that would suit someone who enjoys working around boats, machinery, and the day-to-day rhythm of a busy marine environment.

You’ll be part of a structured, safety‑focused operation, supporting vessel movements, machinery use, general site upkeep, and customer-facing activity across the yard.

Role

Boatyard & Vessel Operations

• Assisting with lifting, launching, recovery, berthing, and manoeuvring of vessels
• Supporting safe storage of vessels ashore using cradles and boat transporters
• High-pressure washing, preparation, and positioning of boats
• Assisting with towing boats and pontoon movements when required

Machinery & Equipment

• Operating equipment such as boat hoists, mobile cranes, forklifts, transporters, and tow boats
• Carrying out daily checks and basic maintenance of machinery
• Reporting faults, defects, or safety concerns promptly

Site Maintenance & Presentation

• General upkeep of pontoons, walkways, storage areas, buildings, and public spaces
• Ensuring the yard remains clean, tidy, and well-presented
• Supporting seasonal works and ongoing site improvements

Customer Service & Teamwork

• Providing a friendly, professional service to berth holders, visitors, and contractors
• Acting as a visible, helpful presence around the yard
• Working closely with colleagues while also being comfortable working independently when required

Administration & Reporting

• Using computer systems to log jobs, vessel movements, incidents, and maintenance tasks
• Reporting daily activities and issues to the yard management team
• Maintaining accurate records in line with procedures

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Previous experience in a boatyard, marina, shipyard, or marine leisure environment
• A positive, reliable, and safety-conscious approach
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
• Physically fit and happy with manual handling tasks
• Good communication skills and a team-focused mindset
• Flexibility around hours, including occasional weekends and out-of-hours work
• Willingness to learn and undertake training
• Basic mechanical or technical aptitude
• Full UK driving licence

Desirable (but not essential)

• Relevant tickets or qualifications (e.g. forklift, crane, slinger/signaller, PB2, VHF, first aid, etc.)

Training will be provided where needed for the right person.

What’s On Offer

• Competitive salary
• Ongoing training and development aligned with industry best practice
• Uniform and PPE provided
• Opportunities for progression within the boatyard and wider marine operations
• A supportive, experienced team environment
• A genuine long-term career opportunity in the marine industry