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Boat Building Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Freeman Boatworks

Design Engineer

Moncks Corner, SC

The ideal candidate has a background in marine design and engineering, or hands-on boat design, and understands how designs translate to real-world boat building in a production environment. This is ...

Freeman Boatworks

Design Engineer

Moncks Corner, SC

The ideal candidate has a background in marine design and engineering, or hands-on boat design, and understands how designs translate to real-world boat building in a production environment. This is ...

Mavrik Marine

Be Seen First

Material Management Supervisor

La Conner, WA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

... building some of the highest-quality commercial marine vessels in the industry. About Mavrik Marine: Founded in 2010, Mavrik Marine Inc. is a privately owned aluminum boat manufacturer providing ...

Back Cove Yachts

Carpenter/Woodworker

Rockland, ME

Back Cove has exceptional world-class craftsmen and women in the boat building industry who craft beautiful luxury yachts. **Back Cove is currently hiring Carpenters for the woodshop and assembly ...

Back Cove Yachts

Electrician

Rockland, ME

Sabre has exceptional world-class craftsmen and women in the boat building industry who craft beautiful luxury yachts. Back Cove is currently hiring electricians. Electrician Description: We are ...

Godfrey Marine

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$100K - $133K/yr

Good working knowledge of design and mechanical capabilities of common boat building materials * NMMA Compliance Specialist preferred, but not required * Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written ...

Burger Boat Company

Pipefitter, Level 4

Manitowoc, WI · On-site

$31.05 - $35.77/hr

Pipefitters are expected to do all piping related functions associated with boat building. This includes, but is not limited to building and/or installing systems such as: fresh water, salt water ...

Sabre Yachts

Carpenter/Woodworker

Raymond, ME · On-site

Sabre has exceptional world-class craftsmen and women in the boat building industry who craft beautiful luxury yachts. **Sabre is currently hiring Carpenters for the woodshop and assembly line*

Cigarette Racing

*Boat Mechanic Associate

Opa Locka, FL · On-site

Our high-level execution and premium quality are second to none and we stay committed to building ... The Mechanic will be responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing various boat ...

Cigarette Racing

*Boat Finish Associate

Opa Locka, FL · On-site

Our high-level execution and premium quality are second to none and we stay committed to building ... The ideal candidate will be responsible for applying the final finishing touches to boat surfaces ...

Burger Boat Company

Pipefitter, Level 3

Manitowoc, WI · On-site

$28.06 - $33.75/hr

Pipefitters are expected to do all piping related functions associated with boat building. This includes, but is not limited to building and/or installing systems such as: fresh water, salt water ...

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Boat Building information

See salary details

$28K

$98.1K

$148K

How much do boat building jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for boat building in the United States is $98,146.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in boat building?

A typical day in boat building often involves reading design plans, preparing or shaping materials like wood or fiberglass, assembling components, and conducting quality checks to ensure safety and functionality. Employees may work individually on specialized tasks or as part of a team to bring various sections of a vessel together. The work environment can range from small artisan workshops to large shipyards, with an emphasis on both hands-on craftsmanship and project deadlines. Throughout the day, boat builders frequently collaborate with engineers, designers, and quality assurance staff to address challenges and maintain construction standards. This dynamic environment offers problem-solving opportunities and the satisfaction of seeing tangible progress on marine vessels.

How to get a job building boats?

To get a job building boats, gain experience through apprenticeships or technical training in boat building, woodworking, or marine technology. Skills in fiberglass, woodworking, and understanding of marine systems are valuable, and certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve employability. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent, with on-the-job training provided by employers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Boat Building position, and why are they important?

To excel in Boat Building, a strong background in woodworking, metalworking, and marine engineering is typically required, often with experience or education in marine trades or vocational programs. Familiarity with tools such as saws, sanders, CAD design software, and, in some cases, relevant safety certifications are crucial. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities are valuable soft skills in this field. Mastery of these skills ensures precision crafting, structural integrity, and efficient collaboration throughout the boat construction process.

What boat job pays the most?

In boat building, the highest-paying roles are often supervisory or specialized positions such as marine engineers, project managers, or senior shipwrights, which require advanced skills and experience. These roles can earn significantly more than entry-level positions and may involve overseeing large projects or working with complex materials and tools.

Is boat building a good career?

Boat building is a skilled trade that involves designing, constructing, and repairing boats, often requiring knowledge of woodworking, fiberglass, and marine systems. It can offer stable employment in shipyards, manufacturing facilities, or custom shops, with opportunities for specialization and certification. However, it may involve physically demanding work and exposure to environmental conditions, and job availability can vary by region and industry demand.

How much money can you make building boats?

Boat builders typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the boats they construct. Skilled workers with certifications or specialized tools can earn higher wages, especially in larger or custom boat manufacturing facilities.

What is a Boat Building job?

A Boat Building job involves constructing, repairing, and maintaining boats using materials such as wood, fiberglass, or metal. Boat builders work with blueprints, tools, and machinery to assemble hulls, decks, and interiors. They may specialize in certain types of boats, such as sailboats, yachts, or commercial vessels. Skills in carpentry, welding, and fiberglass work are often required. This job can be performed in boatyards, manufacturing facilities, or custom workshops.

More about Boat Building jobs
What cities are hiring for Boat Building jobs? Cities with the most Boat Building job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Boat Building jobs? The most popular types of Boat Building jobs are:
What states have the most Boat Building jobs? States with the most job openings for Boat Building jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Boat Building jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Boat Building jobs are:
Boat Building jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Building job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $98,146 per year, or $47.2 per hour.
Design Engineer

Design Engineer

Freeman Boatworks

Moncks Corner, SC

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description

Freeman Boatworks is seeking a Design Engineer with direct marine vessel design experience to support the development of our high-performance composite catamarans. This role is responsible for designing, engineering, and refining boat structures and components that move efficiently from concept into production. 


The ideal candidate has a background in marine design and engineering, or hands-on boat design, and understands how designs translate to real-world boat building in a production environment. This is a highly collaborative, hands-on role where engineering decisions directly impact build quality, performance, and manufacturability. 


What You'll Do

Conceptual Design

  • Contribute to the conceptual design of a boats composite large parts, small parts and structural components for production boats
  •  Develop and refine layouts and structural concepts that consider performance, strength, weight, and manufacturability

Engineering Development

  • Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D / 3D layout drawings using CAD software (Rhino 3D)
  • Maintain accurate and production-ready engineering documentation
  • Create and document revisions of core & fiberglass kits, including CNC programming using CAM software (Rhino Cam) and updating build schematics
  • Creation of 3D printed parts to be used in production as jigs, fixtures or finished parts
  • Mold design - work closely with our in-house tooling department & outside composite tooling companies

Structural Analysis & Optimization

  • Evaluate structural performance under operational loading conditions
  • Identify and implement design improvements to enhance durability, stiffness, and overall boat performance

Materials & Construction

  • Select appropriate composite materials, cores, and laminates based on performance, durability, and cost considerations
  • Design with a strong understanding of composite boat-building methods and production constraints

Prototyping & Production Support

  • Support prototype builds, first articles, and ongoing production
  • Collaborate closely with manufacturing teams to resolve design and build challenges

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Work with manufacturing, procurement, quality, and leadership to ensure smooth integration of design into production
  • Incorporate feedback from the shop floor into continuous design improvements

What We're Looking For

  • Experience in Naval Architecture, Yacht Design, or a closely related marine-focused discipline
  • Demonstrated experience in Design Engineering within the marine industry
  • Strong understanding of composite boat construction
  • Proficiency in CAD / CAM software such as SolidWorks, Rhino 3D, Rhino Cam or similar platforms
  • Proven experience taking boat designs from concept through production
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a high level of attention to detail
  • Ability to work effectively in a hands-on, fast-paced production environment

What We Offer

  • Competitive compensation
  • Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, company-paid life & disability + more!
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and holidays 
  • A collaborative, people-focused workplace built on craftsmanship and innovation

Please note: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

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