On Water Operations- Fleet Driver (Hybrid Role) in Southampton

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

The Rolex SailGP 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, SailGP is one of the world’s fastest-growing sports and entertainment properties, now in its sixth season.

SailGP’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, SailGP Technologies has relocated to Southampton, UK, with the new state of the art facility which opened in Spring 2024.

We’re looking for technically skilled, hands‑on individuals to join the team in a unique dual role: working both onsite at our SailGP Technologies facility in Southampton and travelling worldwide as part of the SailGP Tour.

This is a great opportunity for someone with strong trade or mechanical experience who wants to apply their skills in a fast‑paced, high‑performance sporting environment.

Responsibilities:

• Support the deployment, positioning, adjustment, and recovery of race marks as directed by Race Management.
• Conduct technical transfers, transporting personnel, equipment, and technical staff safely and efficiently between vessels, docks, and operational locations.
• Carry out specialist vessel manoeuvres, including long towing, side towing, close‑quarters handling, shallow water operations, confined space manoeuvring, and precision vessel positioning.
• Assist with on‑water logistics, including the movement of equipment, race assets, and operational personnel.
• Support launch and recovery operations for vessels and equipment.
• Operate safely around race infrastructure, F50 race yachts, support vessels, docks, and other marine traffic.
• Carry out pre‑start and post‑racing operational tasks to ensure assets are prepared and recovered safely.
• Communicate effectively with Race Management, Event Control, and the wider On Water Operations team using UHF radio and other communication systems.
• Adapt quickly to changing operational priorities and provide support across all areas of On Water Operations as required.

Skills and Experience:

• Extensive powerboat driving experience with exceptional boat handling skills.
• Demonstrated experience performing advanced manoeuvres including long towing, side towing, shallow water operations, and precision close‑quarters boat handling.
• Confident operating in busy, high‑pressure marine environments in and around the race area.
• Strong understanding of navigation, GPS systems, and marine electronics.
• Strong VHF radio communication skills.
• Physically capable of working on the water in varying weather conditions.
• RYA Powerboat Level 2 (or equivalent recognised qualification).
• Commercial Endorsement (or equivalent).
• Marine VHF/SRC Radio Certificate.
  
• Previous experience supporting international sailing events, marine logistics, commercial vessel operations, or race management.

About you:

• Strong communication skills
• A collaborative mindset, capable of fostering strong relationships across departments
• Calm under pressure and able to make sound decisions in time‑critical situations.
• Practical, methodical and solutions focused.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing operational demands.
• Professional with strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Self‑motivated with a high level of personal accountability.
• Committed to maintaining high safety and quality standards.
• Appreciation for accuracy and pays close attention to detail when handling key information
• Proficient organisational, prioritisation, communication and administrative skills
• Able to communicate confidently and adapt communication style according to the needs of the stakeholder
• Able to work independently but values working collaboratively as part of a team
• Works effectively and enjoys a fast‑paced, start‑up environment
• Entrepreneurial spirit with a desire to exceed expectations
• Comfortable working with multiple stakeholders across multiple departments (global & local)
  

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