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Boat Builder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Master Boat Builder Apprentice

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

The Master Boat Builder Apprentice is a highly experienced and cross-trained member of the assembly team. They are true utility workers with the ability to learn and perform at a high level anywhere ...

Build and maintain strong relationships with customers by understanding their needs and providing ... Demonstrations: Arrange and conduct boat demonstrations and sea trials. * Quoting and Pricing:

Helper I Xpress

Hot Springs, AR

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

The mission of the boat builder helper is improve the productivity of the boat builder by preparing all surfaces, parts and equipment for the boat builder. DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/EXPECTATIONS:

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Boat Builder information

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$35

How much do boat builder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat builder in the United States is $25.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Boat Builder Do?

A boat builder draws up plans and builds marine vessels. Your specific job duties depend on the type of boats that you construct; some design and create personal and leisure crafts, while others assemble ships for commercial use. In this role, your responsibilities include sourcing necessary materials, fabricating parts, and constructing the boat. On larger projects, you may review blueprints and oversee other builders or contractors as they complete the building process to ensure they follow the client's specifications. Some boat builders specialize in fabricating and installing specific elements. In addition to building new boats, many boat builders also repair, restore, or customize existing vessels.

What is the difference between Boat Builder vs Marine Technician?

AspectBoat BuilderMarine Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, vocational training, certifications in boat constructionHigh school diploma, certifications in marine systems, electrical, or engine repair
Work EnvironmentShipyards, boat manufacturing facilities, workshopsMarinas, repair shops, on-site at boats or ships
Industry UsageDesigning and constructing new boats from raw materialsMaintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting existing marine vessels

Boat Builders focus on constructing new boats from design to completion, working primarily in manufacturing environments. Marine Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining existing vessels, often working on-site at marinas or repair shops. Both roles require technical skills and certifications but differ in their primary responsibilities and work settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Boat Builder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boat Builder, you need strong manual dexterity, knowledge of marine construction techniques, and experience with materials like wood, fiberglass, and metals, often supported by vocational training or apprenticeships. Familiarity with CAD software, hand and power tools, and boat-building safety standards is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills are crucial to ensuring each vessel is built safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.

What does a boat builder do?

A boat builder is responsible for constructing, repairing, and maintaining boats and other types of watercraft. They work with a variety of materials, including wood, fiberglass, and metal, to build hulls, decks, and other boat components. Boat builders use specialized tools and techniques to ensure that each vessel is seaworthy, safe, and meets design specifications. Their tasks may also include installing engines, electrical systems, and interior fittings, as well as testing boats for performance and safety.

What are some common challenges faced by boat builders during the construction process?

Boat builders often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision in measurements, working with complex curved surfaces, and ensuring watertight finishes. Collaborating closely with designers and marine engineers is essential to resolve technical issues and meet safety standards. Additionally, adapting to new materials and evolving construction techniques requires ongoing learning and attention to detail, making strong problem-solving skills and teamwork critical in this role.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Boat Builder jobs? The most popular types of Boat Builder jobs are:
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What are popular job titles related to Boat Builder jobs? For Boat Builder jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Boat Builder job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,565 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Master Boat Builder Apprentice

Bennington

Elkhart, IN • On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY:
Bennington is the market leading pontoon boat manufacturer and a wholly owned subsidiary of Polaris Industries, a Fortune 500 company. We pride ourselves on delivering a boating experience that's second to none through our emphasis on innovation, design, product quality, and relentless focus on customer satisfaction. Our team members live that passion every day and have fueled our growth across 6 buildings in Elkhart, IN.
The Master Boat Builder Apprentice is a highly experienced and cross-trained member of the assembly team. They are true utility workers with the ability to learn and perform at a high level anywhere on the line, support the training and development of other line employees, and assist with new model year product rollout.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES :
• Play an active role in promoting positive employee relations and engagement
• Actively support and participate in a culture of safety and continuous improvement within assigned facilities
• Lead and perform complex assembly tasks
• Interpret and execute designs from blueprints and specifications
• Construct and install parts using various materials like wood, fiberglass, and metal
• Conduct quality checks to ensure the boat's seaworthiness and adherence to safety standards
• Repair existing boats by fixing leaks, replacing parts, or refinishing surfaces
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve electrical issues
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
• Train, coach, and mentor other team members to enhance their skills and knowledge
• Collaborate with Supervisors, Group Leaders, and functional support to achieve daily work targets
• Adapt to changes in responsibility, processes, procedures, or work schedules as needed
SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE
• Proven work experience in multiple pontoon assembly functions
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Extensive experience with complex system assembly, inspection, and troubleshooting
• Proficiency in using hand tools, power tools, tape measure, and machinery
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and schematics
• Strong understanding of boat design and construction techniques
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally at all levels of the organization
• Willing to cross-train in all assembly departments
• Able to work overtime and weekends
• Physical ability to stand, walk, crouch, bend, and climb throughout the workday in a non-air-conditioned environment
• Occasional travel may be required for customer or dealer support