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- Tasks: Join our team to handle vessels, operate machinery, and maintain a vibrant boatyard.
- Company: Professional marine company at Victoria Quay with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, uniform provided, and career progression.
- Why this job: Get hands-on experience in the marine industry while working outdoors and learning new skills.
- Qualifications: Full UK driving licence and experience in a marine environment preferred.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a chance to build a long-term career in a dynamic field.
SLR Recruitment are seeking a Boatyard Operative to join a professional team at Victoria Quay. This is a varied, hands-on role supporting the safe, efficient, and well-presented operation of our boatyard. Working within a structured operational environment, you will contribute to vessel handling activities, machinery operation, site maintenance, and customer service, while maintaining the highest standards of health, safety, and professionalism.
Location: Victoria Quay, Royal Clarence Yard, Gosport
Salary: £26,000 - £30,000 (DOE)
Job Type: Full-time / Permanent
Hours: 39 hours per week, occasional out-of-hours work
Reporting to: Boatyard Operations Manager / Boatyard Supervisor
Key Responsibilities
- Vessel Handling & Boatyard Operations
- Assist with the lifting, launching, recovery, berthing, and manoeuvring of vessels
- Support the safe storage of vessels ashore using cradles and boat transporters
- Carry out high-pressure washing, preparation, and positioning of boats
- Assist with towing boats and pontoon movements where required
- Machinery & Equipment
- Operate boat hoists, mobile cranes, boat transporters, forklifts, & tow boat
- Carry out daily checks and basic maintenance of boatyard machinery
- Report defects, faults, or safety concerns promptly
- Site Maintenance & Presentation
- Carry out routine maintenance of pontoons, walkways, storage areas, buildings, and public spaces
- Ensure the boatyard is kept clean, tidy, and well-presented at all times
- Support seasonal preparations and site improvements
- Customer Service & Teamwork
- Act as a visible presence within the boatyard, offering assistance when needed
- Work collaboratively with boatyard and UK Docks colleagues
- Demonstrate flexibility, initiative, and the ability to work independently during quieter periods
- Administration & Reporting
- Use computer systems to log jobs, incidents, maintenance tasks, and vessel movements
- Report daily activities and issues to the Boatyard Supervisor / Boatyard Operations Manager
What We’re Looking For
- Full UK driving licence
- Existing qualifications (e.g. forklift, crane, slinger, PB2, VHF, first aid, etc)
- Experience in a boatyard, marina, shipyard, or marine leisure environment
- Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions
- Physically fit and comfortable with manual handling tasks
- Good communication skills & ability to work effectively in a team
- Flexible with working hours, including occasional weekends and out-of-hours work
- Willingness to learn and undertake training
- Basic mechanical or technical aptitude
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Training and development, aligned with industry best practice
- Uniform and PPE provided
- Opportunities for progression within the boatyard and wider operations
- Supportive team environment with experienced marine professionals
- The chance to build a long-term career in the marine industry
If you’re interested in this role, get in touch.
Boat Operative in Gosport employer: SLR Recruitment
Contact Detail:
SLR Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Boat Operative in Gosport
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company before your interview. Research their values, recent projects, and team culture. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their boatyard crew.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your hands-on skills! If you can, get some time on machinery or boats before your interview. Being able to talk about your practical experience with vessel handling or equipment operation will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork skills during the interview. Share examples of how you've worked collaboratively in past roles, especially in a boatyard or similar environment. They want to see that you can fit into their supportive team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Boatyard Operative position!
We think you need these skills to ace Boat Operative in Gosport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in boat handling, machinery operation, and customer service. We want to see how your skills match the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your qualifications!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about working in a boatyard and how your background makes you a great fit for our team at Victoria Quay.
Show Off Your Skills: If you have any specific qualifications like forklift or crane certifications, make sure they’re front and centre in your application. We love seeing candidates who are ready to hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at SLR Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of vessel handling and boatyard operations. Familiarise yourself with the specific machinery and equipment mentioned in the job description, like boat hoists and forklifts. Being able to discuss your experience with these tools will show you're ready for the role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Prepare to highlight any relevant qualifications you have, such as forklift or crane certifications. If you've worked in a similar environment before, be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to safety and efficiency in a boatyard or marina setting.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This role requires good communication and teamwork skills. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others, especially in high-pressure situations. Showing that you can work well with colleagues will make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Be Ready for Anything
Since the job involves working outdoors in all weather conditions, be prepared to discuss your flexibility and willingness to adapt. Mention any experiences where you've had to adjust your plans or work outside your comfort zone, as this will demonstrate your commitment to the role.
