Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a workshop team in building and maintaining lifeboats.
- Company: Join the RNLI, a charity dedicated to saving lives at sea.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 26 days leave, and a 4-day work week.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working in a supportive and diverse environment.
- Qualifications: Looking for organised leaders with trade experience and a passion for safety.
- Other info: Commitment to safeguarding and diversity is essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 50400 £ per year.
Section Leader Salary: circa £36,000 (dependent on experience) Contract type: Permanent Hours: Full Time Additional information: 4 days per week (Monday – Thursday) Location: Cowes, Isle of Wight, England Location description: Inshore Lifeboat Centre, Cowes, Isle of Wight Interview date: w/c 25 August Closing Date: 17-08-2025 Reference: 20027 About us The Royal National Lifeboat Institution is a charity that provides an on call, 24-hour lifeboat search and rescue service and a seasonal lifeguard service. Our lifeboat crews and lifeguards need a dedicated, professional, and talented team behind them. Whatever the weather, boats and equipment need to be manufactured, maintained and repaired to the very highest technical standards. We are currently recruiting for the role of Fabrication/Fitter Section Leader at our Inshore Lifeboat Centre (ILC), based on the Isle of Wight. This position is responsible for the efficient running of the workshop, fabrication and assembly contributing to the production process for new build and refit lifeboats. Some of the benefits – Salary: circa £36,000 (dependent on experience) – Performance related pay scheme annually reviewed – 26 days’ annual leave Pro rata plus Bank Holidays – 37-hour 4 day week schedule – Outstanding pension scheme – Life assurance – Health and dental cashplan About the role You will be expected to work closely with other Section Leaders involved in the production line and report progress at the relevant production meetings and hold responsibility for the performance management of all your allocated staff in the department through the RNLI RADAR system. The ability to motivate a team, remain involved with practical workshop tasks to meet productive requirements, manage Health and Safety requirements and constantly improve work practices will be of significant importance. About you We will be looking to recruit a highly organised and self-motivated individual with relevant trade and leadership experience, adept at managing workshop operations, able to support technicians with diagnostic, repair and technical problem solving with a focus on maintaining the highest standard of service. Safeguarding The RNLI is committed to safeguarding; protecting a person’s health, wellbeing, and human rights, enabling them to live free from harm, abuse, and neglect. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment and have a zero-tolerance approach. The suitability of all prospective employees and volunteers will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment. This will include relevant criminal record checks being carried out dependent on the eligibility of the role. (England & Wales; DBS check, Scotland; Disclosure Scotland PVG, Northern Ireland; Access NI, Republic of Ireland; Garda Vetting; International, International Child Protection Certificate process). Diversity at the RNLI Our staff and volunteers have been saving lives at sea without prejudice for 200 years. We respect and value diversity of background, skills and perspectives within our teams, and consider it essential to help us deliver a world-class lifesaving service. We are an inclusive organisation and welcome applications from everyone. In addition to having the skills needed for the role, we also look for applicants who share our commitment to living our RNLI values (trustworthy, courageous, selfless, and dependable), and helping us work towards Our Vision: To save Every One
Section Leader employer: RNLI
Contact Detail:
RNLI Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Section Leader
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the RNLI's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to saving lives at sea and their focus on teamwork will help you align your responses during interviews, showcasing how you embody these principles.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your leadership experience in workshop settings. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've motivated teams, managed health and safety, and improved work practices in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the technical aspects of lifeboat fabrication and maintenance. Being knowledgeable about the processes involved will not only impress your interviewers but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former RNLI employees if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when applying for the Section Leader position.
We think you need these skills to ace Section Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Section Leader position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these expectations.
Craft a Strong CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant trade and leadership experience. Use bullet points to make it easy to read, and include specific examples of your achievements in managing workshop operations.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the RNLI's mission and values. Highlight your ability to motivate teams and manage Health and Safety requirements, and explain how you can contribute to the efficient running of the workshop.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at RNLI
✨Understand the RNLI's Mission
Before your interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of the RNLI's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to safeguarding and diversity, as well as their operational standards. This will show your genuine interest in the organisation and how you align with their goals.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
As a Section Leader, you'll need to showcase your leadership skills. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed a team, motivated staff, or improved workshop operations. Be ready to discuss how you handle performance management and support your team in technical problem-solving.
✨Highlight Technical Expertise
Since the role involves fabrication and assembly, be prepared to discuss your technical skills and relevant trade experience. Bring specific examples of projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to maintain high standards in workshop operations and health and safety practices.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions about the role, team dynamics, and the production process at the Inshore Lifeboat Centre. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the position is the right fit for you.
