Apprentice Boat Builder

Plymouth Pilots has been building boats since 1969, starting with our first model – the Plymouth Pilot 16. Our vessels are enjoyed by recreational boaters, fishermen and commercial operators, including passenger ferries. While manufacturing our own range remains our core focus, we also take on a variety of GRP fibreglass projects for other sectors, making the work both varied and rewarding.

As an apprentice, you’ll work closely with our small, skilled team to learn every stage of the process. We’ll provide full training, but you’ll need to bring a willingness to learn, a steady hand and pride in your work. Safety, professionalism and teamwork are essential in our workshop. Any previous experience with hand tools will be an advantage and can help you progress more quickly.

Typical daily tasks will include:

Assisting in the construction of new boats and components. · Supporting repair and refit work on existing vessels.  Measuring, cutting and preparing materials for layup. Learning to operate and maintain a variety of workshop tools safely. Helping to keep the workshop organised and equipment in good order.

With our 55-year heritage comes a commitment to high standards and we’ll help you develop the skills to meet them. This is a hands-on, practical role where no two days are quite the same – and by the end of your training, you’ll be able to say you helped create boats that are used and admired all over the world.

Training:

Working towards a Level 3 Boatbuilder apprenticeship standard. You’ll receive full on-the-job training from our experienced team, learning traditional craftsmanship alongside modern manufacturing techniques, including:

GRP (fibreglass) laminating techniques - preparation, layup and finishing. Polishing and varnishing. Some areas of woodwork. Use and maintenance of hand tools, power tools and workshop equipment. Boat fit-out skills, including fitting hardware, seating and safety equipment. Repair and refit methods for older vessels.  Reading and interpreting drawings, following templates and job specifications. Workplace safety, manual handling and safe working practices.  Working effectively as part of a small, collaborative team.

You’ll also gain a thorough understanding of the complete boatbuilding process – from raw materials to finished vessel – and develop the attention to detail needed to meet the high standards our boats are known for.

Training Outcome:

For the right candidate, there is the opportunity to become a full member of our team on successful completion of the apprenticeship. You’ll have developed valuable, transferable skills that can lead to a long-term career in boatbuilding and marine manufacturing with Plymouth Pilots.

Employer Description:
Plymouth Pilots is a specialist boatbuilder and fibreglass parts manufacturer with a proud 55-year heritage. Our handcrafted range – the 16’, 18’ and 24’ Plymouth Pilots – is renowned for quality, reliability and timeless style, with many of our boats still in service decades after they were built. Alongside building new boats, we carry out sympathetic refits that give older Plymouth Pilots a new lease of life. Our work isn’t limited to leisure craft – we also produce commercial mouldings for a variety of industries, applying the same precision and care to every project. We are a small, close-knit team who take pride in our craftsmanship and in the finish of every boat that leaves our workshop. As an apprentice, you’ll work alongside highly skilled craftspeople, learning hands-on skills and contributing to projects where attention to detail really matters. Our boats can be found in harbours and waterways all over the world – from our home here in Devon to as far afield as Australia.

Working Hours :
Monday - Friday (8am-5pm)

Skills:
Communication skills,Organisation skills,Problem solving skills,Team working,Initiative,Practical skills