Senior Boat Builder

Vessev; Manurewa; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

20 weeks parental leave

Competitive salaries

Job summary

Vessev is seeking a Senior Boat Builder to lead end-to-end composite fabrication and assembly for high‑performance hydrofoiling electric vessels in Auckland. You will own build processes, ensure quality and safety, and work closely with engineering and production teams.

This hands-on role requires 10+ years in composites, expertise in resin infusion, tooling, and mentoring teammates. Join a startup environment backed by top-tier investors and shape the future of marine transport.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in composite boat building or advanced composite manufacturing.
• Proven expertise in resin infusion and assembly of large composite parts.
• Strong practical understanding of composite tooling, consumables and safe workshop practices.
• Experience mentoring or supporting others in a workshop environment.
• Ability to interpret and execute build documentation, CAD drawings and engineering instructions.

Responsibilities

• Composite fabrication and assembly, ensuring dimensional accuracy and structural integrity.
• Define and uphold inspection standards for performance and finish.
• Support and upskill junior builders through coaching and guidance.
• Uphold safety, organisation and professionalism in the workshop.

Skills

Composite boat building

Resin infusion

CAD drawings interpretation

Mentoring others

Hand tools & precision instruments

Workshop safety practices

Education

Boat building qualification

Tools

Composite tooling

Resin infusion equipment

CAD drawings software

Job description

At Vessev, we’re defining a new category of marine transport: hydrofoiling electric vessels that are genuinely better for people and the planet. Our boats fly above the surface using advanced hydrofoils, control systems, and electric propulsion, designed and built here in Aotearoa.

To make this possible, we depend on cutting-edge materials, precision engineering, and a talented Build team with deep expertise in composites. We’re looking for a Senior Boat Builder to join the team in a hands‑on, full‑time role, fabricating and assembling the high‑performance composite structures that form the backbone of our vessels. This is the chance to directly shape the future of maritime transport.

The role

As a Senior Boat Builder, you’ll be trusted with the end‑to‑end execution and continuous improvement of critical build processes, contributing directly to the quality and safety of every boat we launch. With everyone working out of the same facility, our engineering and boat production teams are tightly integrated.

What you’ll be doing

Composite fabrication and assembly

• Create complex composite components using resin infusion and pre‑preg methods, ensuring dimensional accuracy and structural integrity.
• Take ownership of locating, fitting, bonding, taping and finishing composite structures, in line with engineering specifications.
• Work with composite tooling, consumables and materials to keep layup and infusion efficient.

Quality and process improvement

• Define and uphold inspection standards, making sure every part meets Vessev’s high expectations for performance and finish.
• Work with engineering and production to refine build methods, material use and workflow efficiency.

Team and workshop

• Support and upskill junior builders through coaching, technical guidance and shared problem‑solving.
• Promote a culture of safety, organisation and professionalism throughout the workshop.

About you

You’re an experienced, hands‑on builder who takes real pride in a clean infusion and a perfect bond. You know advanced composite materials and processes inside out, and you’re energised by the idea of being part of a leading‑edge composite boat building company. What matters most is that you’re dedicated to the craft, take ownership of your work, and enjoy working with the people around you.

At Vessev, every detail matters. From the precision of an infusion to the strength of a bond, your work is critical to the success of each vessel. By applying your skills with care and consistency, you’ll enable the wider team to push the boundaries of marine technology, knowing that the foundations of our craft are in the best possible hands.

We’re looking for someone with

• 10+ years’ experience in composite boat building or advanced composite manufacturing.
• Proven expertise in resin infusion and assembly of large composite parts.
• A strong practical understanding of composite tooling, consumables and safe workshop practices.
• Experience mentoring or supporting others in a workshop environment.
• Proficient use of hand tools and precision instruments,
• The ability to interpret and execute build documentation, CAD drawings and engineering instructions.

Bonus Experience

• A formal qualification in boat building, marine composites or related field.
• Previous experience in a startup, technology or advanced manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of composites‑specific health and safety standards.
• A passion for marine technology.

About us

We’re here to set a better world in motion – cleaner air, better commutes, and deeper connections with nature and each other. Our hydrofoiling electric vessels use up to 90% less energy than traditional boats, unlocking entirely new opportunities.

We’re backed by top‑tier investors including Blackbird Ventures, and our team includes talent from the America’s Cup, SpaceX, Rocketlab, Halter, Apple, and leading climate startups. But titles don’t matter here – what matters is how we show up: with purpose, humility, and a restless optimism for what’s possible.

We’re office‑first but not office‑only. We believe in building together, in person, where the real magic happens. That said, we trust our team to do what’s right and we know life isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all.

Why our people love Vessev

• We’re building something different – from how we move on the water to the kind of team and workplace we’re creating
• The chance to work on technology that can drive real, lasting impact in the world
• A team of hugely talented and collaborative people
• 20 weeks fully paid parental leave for primary caregivers, and 4 weeks for secondary (conditions apply)
• Competitive salaries that reflect the value of the work
• Being on the water is part of our job – from trips on our vessels to our offices that border the Tamaki River
• And if the water’s where you want to be, you’ll be in good company. You’ll find no shortage of boaters, beach goers, sailors, foilers, surfers, and kiteboarders here.

Research shows that women and other under‑represented groups often only apply when they meet every requirement – even though they could be an excellent fit. If you see yourself doing great work here, but don’t tick every box, we’d still love to hear from you. We’re building a team where everyone has the chance to do their best work.