GRP Laminator / Boat Builder - RS Sailing

RS Sailing; Romsey; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 21,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

Training and development opportunities

Job summary

RS Sailing in Cowes is seeking a GRP Laminator / Boat Builder to join our workshop. The role covers hands-on build and finishing of RS boats, with work from hand layup to infusion and finishing to meet quality standards.

You will work from drawings, apply gelcoat, prepare materials, and help with the next production stages. Relevant experience and a willingness to learn in a supportive team are valued.

Qualifications

• Experience with GRP laminating and boat-building processes is desirable.
• Ability to read technical drawings and work from them accurately.
• Willingness to learn new skills in a workshop environment.
• Physically capable of practical, hands-on work in a boat-building setting.

Responsibilities

• Carry out wet and dry laminations from technical drawings
• Gelcoat application
• Trimming, sanding, and finishing components to a high standard
• Carrying out basic finishing work including polishing and preparation for next stages
• Kit cutting and material preparation
• Accurately record material usage
• Maintain high standards of workshop housekeeping

Skills

Attention to detail

Hands-on

Teamwork

Fabrication by drawing

Proactive learning

Job description

GRP Laminator / Boat Builder

Cowes, Isle of Wight

Starting £14.20 - £15.50 per hour(depending on experience)
Permanent and Full-time

About RS Sailing

At RS Sailing, our workshop is at the heart of what we do. From building world-class boats to developing new designs and techniques, our Cowes site plays a key role in bringing ideas to life and delivering products used by sailors across the globe.

The Role

We are looking for a GRP Laminator / Boat Builder to join our team in Cowes. This is a hands‑on role where you’ll be involved in the build and finishing of a range of boats across the RS portfolio.

You’ll work with both hand layup and infusion processes, using vinyl ester and polyester resin systems, as well as carrying out finishing work to ensure each component meets our quality standards before moving through production.

This role would suit someone who enjoys practical work, takes pride in quality, and is keen to develop their skills within a supportive and experienced team.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out wet and dry laminations from technical drawings
• Gelcoat application
• Trimming, sanding, and finishing components to a high standard
• Carry out basic finishing work including polishing, fettling, and preparation for next stages
• Kit cutting and material preparation
• Accurately record material usage
• Maintain high standards of workshop housekeeping

What We are Looking For

• Strong attention to detail, particularly in finishing and final presentation
• Reliable, hands‑on approach
• Able to work both independently and as part of a team
• Comfortable working from drawings
• Good work ethic with minimal supervision
• Physically fit and happy working in a workshop environment
• Willingness to learn and develop new skills

Desirable (but not essential)

• Previous experience in GRP laminating or boat building
• Infusion experience
• Gelcoat spraying or repairs
• Finishing experience (polishing, cosmetic repair, final prep)
• General GRP repair work

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly rate based on experience
• Training and development opportunities
• Company pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Opportunity to build a career in the marine industry

Pay & Progression

The hourly rate starts from £14.20 to £15.50 depending on experience.
Typically, we offer a starting rate with a review after probation. If you can demonstrate strong experience from day one, we’re open to offering a higher rate upfront.

Location

This role is based in Cowes (PO31 7UT). You’ll need to reliably commute or relocate before starting.