Fairings and Canvas Technician in Southampton

Sail GP Technologies is the high performance design, engineering and manufacturing arm of Sail GP, the global purpose-led sail grand prix championship.

The Rolex Sail GP Championship is the most exciting racing on water, where anything can happen in short, adrenaline-fueled battles between national teams at iconic stadium destinations worldwide.

Top athletes fly in identical high-tech F50 catamarans faster than the wind, at speeds in excess of 100km/h (60mph).

Founded in 2018, Sail GP is one of the world’s fastest-growing sports and entertainment properties, now in its sixth season.

Sail GP’s constantly evolving design, composites engineering, software and data expertise is rooted in decades of experience at the forefront of cutting-edge sail racing.

Previously established and located in New Zealand since 2001, Sail GP Technologies has relocated to Southampton, UK, with the new state of the art facility which opened in Spring 2024.

Job Summary

The Fairings and Canvas Technician will be responsible for carrying out all aspects of wing film, and canvas operations.

This incorporates all aspects of the tour cycle and Sail GP Technologies Canvas Loft, including attendance at all events, assisting with pre-event planning, procurement and resourcing.

The ideal candidate for this position must have the technical skills to ensure the departmental equipment (such as industrial sewing machines) are regularly maintained and ready to use.

During events, the Sails and Fairings Technician will assist with wing checks, Clysar repairs, and production and repair of canvas work.

This role demands excellent communication, and problem-solving skills, as well as a commitment to Sail GP’s values, safety, sustainability, and high-performance standards.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and repair fleet fairings and canvas work
• Help to maintain inventories on tour and in the UK facility, with the ability to track and document the canvas making processes, equipment, and spare parts.
• Meet and Manage deadlines for both daily operations and long-term maintenance
• Show awareness and attention to detail of all fabric components of the F50
• Assist with organising and coordination of procurement of all equipment and materials for wing film, canvas projects and repairs.
• Work to a job list ahead of events and organise necessary resources to complete projects ahead of sailing.
• Completion of daily sailing checks for wing film and fairings
• Responsible for repairing Wing film, and canvas when needed
• Assist with completion and tracking of daily job lists
• Maintains communication with shore teams and sailors regarding wing film issues
• Assist with order lists for part procurement, prior to the next event
• Assist with collating all repairs, maintenance lists and items required for next event
• Assist in tracking parts and consumables used by each team at the previous event
• Assist in procurement of required parts for upcoming events,
• Assist with the planning and execution of ongoing maintenance upgrades on F50 and components.
• Works with teams to design canvas parts to protect F50 fleet and streamline pack up and set up

About you

• Strong understanding of canvas work and maintenance, including industrial sewing machine maintenance knowledge.
• Strong communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to multi-task across several sailmaking, wing film and canvas projects.
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to work under pressure, particularly during the high-stakes, fast-paced environment of live sailing events.
• A collaborative mindset, capable of fostering strong relationships across departments.
• Key Expectations
• Problem solving adaptability- Have the ability to manage urgent tasks, last minute changes, delays or operational disruptions effectively with ease
  Exceptional attention to detail

Show adaptability to handle changing priorities, project specific demand and unforeseen challenges
Champion an inclusive environment where diversity is valued
Advocate and promote Sail GP Values and contribute to a positive culture
Consider how each team action contributes to Better Sport, Better Planet
A commitment to promoting safety, ensuring compliance with regulations, and adhering to Sail GP's operational standards.

Willingness to travel extensively and work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, during events and post-event operations.

Sail GP Technologies is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace committed to building a team culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion.