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Boat Building Apprentice Jobs in Wakefield, RI (NOW HIRING)

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Boat Building Apprentice information

See Wakefield, RI salary details

$12

$22

$37

How much do boat building apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat building apprentice in Wakefield, RI is $22.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $24.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a boat building apprentice?

A Boat Building Apprentice is an individual who is learning the skills and techniques required to construct and repair boats under the supervision of experienced boat builders. Apprenticeships typically combine hands-on training with classroom instruction in areas such as woodworking, fiberglass work, marine engineering, and safety procedures. The goal is to develop practical experience and technical knowledge necessary to become a qualified boat builder. Apprenticeships can last several years, depending on the program and the complexity of the work involved. Successful completion often leads to certification or full-time employment in the marine industry.

What hands-on experience can I expect as a boat building apprentice, and how will I work with more experienced craftsmen?

As a Boat Building Apprentice, you'll gain practical experience in tasks like woodworking, fiberglass layup, and assembling boat components under the guidance of seasoned boatbuilders. You'll often work alongside a small team, receiving direct mentorship and feedback while assisting with both traditional and modern construction techniques. This collaborative environment is designed to help you steadily develop your skills, understand safety protocols, and eventually take on more responsibility as you progress. Expect to rotate through different stages of the build process, which broadens your exposure and prepares you for advanced roles within the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a boat building apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boat Building Apprentice, you need practical skills in woodworking, basic mechanical aptitude, and an understanding of marine construction principles, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with hand and power tools, blueprint reading, and safety protocols is vital in this role. Attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and strong teamwork abilities are essential soft skills for success. These competencies ensure precise craftsmanship, safe work practices, and effective collaboration on complex boat building projects.

What is the difference between Boat Building Apprentice vs Boat Builder?

AspectBoat Building ApprenticeBoat Builder
CredentialsOften requires basic high school diploma; on-the-job trainingTypically has completed apprenticeship or vocational training
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised, in boatyards or workshopsSkilled work, independent tasks, in boatyards or manufacturing facilities
Job RoleAssists with construction, learns techniques, performs basic tasksPerforms advanced construction, assembly, and finishing tasks

The main difference is that a Boat Building Apprentice is in training, gaining skills under supervision, while a Boat Builder is a skilled worker responsible for constructing boats independently. Apprentices develop their expertise to become fully qualified Boat Builders.

How much money can you make building boats?

Boat building apprentices typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. As they gain skills and certifications, their wages can increase, and experienced boat builders can earn higher salaries or wages in specialized or supervisory roles.
Infographic showing various Boat Building Apprentice job openings in Wakefield, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,046 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

2026 Recent High School Grads - Entry Level Trades Opportunities - Groton

Groton, CT • On-site


General Dynamics Electric Boat
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 164 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 544 rated manufacturers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$24.28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Overview
Attention Class of 2026 High School Grads!!!
Do you enjoy working with your hands? Are you ready to start a career with training and growth opportunities? Did you miss the opportunity to interview at your school, but are still interested in trade opportunities at Electric Boat? Now's your chance!
Electric Boat is the premier designer and builder of nuclear powered submarines for the US Navy and we are experiencing a period of unprecedented growth! We are looking for people who want to learn and grow with the company as we continue to build the most advanced submarines.
Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401K Plan
  • Paid Vacation, Paid Sick & Holidays
  • 7% Shift Premium
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Commuter/Van Services
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Apprenticeship Program
  • Safety Boot Reimbursement Program
  • Training
  • Minimum starting Hourly Rate $24.28

Apply today!!! No experience necessary. We will train you to join our dedicated team building the most advanced and sophisticated submarines in the world!
All entry-level positions require membership to applicable Metal Trades Council or United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America Union.
Our Entry Level Trades opportunities include:
Outside Machinists*
  • Works on the submarine doing assembly and shipboard mechanical work that takes place in the shipyard

Carpenters
  • Responsible for building staging, platforms, and scaffolding for other trades to be able to work in and around the boat.

Painters*
  • Preserves the hull and components by sealing the submarines with chemicals and paints to prevent corrosion and protect against the accumulation of marine life.

Shipfitter*
  • Responsible for laying out and fabricating metal structural parts, such as plates, bulkheads, frames, foundations, etc. Align and tracks weld's structural parts

Grinder
  • Working with various metals and pipes to be formed within a high degree of precision

Sheetmetal Worker*
  • Metal carpenters for the boat. Job tasks include layout, fabrication, assembly, and installation of all light gauge metalwork which includes air-conditioned ductwork, lockers, cabinets, prefabricated bulkheads, doors, furniture and Formica.

*Pre-employment training is provided by Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB) for these positions
Qualifications
Required:
  • Must be a high school senior and graduating by August of 2026
  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Available to train and work on any shift
  • Ability to work at heights, confined spaces and in extreme weather conditions as required
  • Possess your own basic hand tools

Preferred:
  • Vocational HS

Skills
  • Ability to work successfully in a production/construction environment
  • Applicant will be required to work in a collaborative and team environment
  • Ability to communicate effectively with supervision and peers

Physical Qualifications
Climbing, Color Vision, Crawling, Heavy Lifting, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Medium Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting
Environmental Attributes
Acids or Alkalis, Cold, Dry, Dusty, Fumes, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily, Outside, Wet


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