BOATWRIGHT APPRENTICE

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY:

The Boatwright Apprentice supports the maintenance, repair, and restoration of The Center for Wooden Boats’ historic fleet while participating in a structured, hands-on learning experience in traditional wooden boatbuilding and marine maintenance. This part-time, seasonal position is designed to provide a deep and sustained apprenticeship experience working in a wooden boat shop.

Working under the direct supervision of the Boatwright, the Apprentice assists with active vessel maintenance projects, shop and yard operations, and volunteer work sessions. Over the course of approximately six months, the Apprentice will gain practical experience with wooden vessel care, shop practices, and waterfront operations in a living maritime museum environment.

This role is well-suited for someone exploring or beginning a career in wooden boatbuilding, maritime trades, or vessel maintenance.

Specific Job Functions

 Vessel Maintenance & Repair Support - 60%

• Assist with routine maintenance and repair of wooden vessels, including sanding, painting, varnishing, basic carpentry, and hardware installation.

• Support restoration and maintenance projects under the guidance of the Boatwright, learning traditional vessel construction and repair techniques over time.

• Assist with vessel hauling, launching, blocking, and storage operations.

• Perform basic maintenance tasks on sails, rigging, oars, spars, and related equipment as assigned.

• Learn and follow best practices for safe and effective use of hand and power tools.

 Shop & Yard Operations - 25%

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized carpentry shop, yard, and work areas.

• Assist with tool setup, breakdown, storage, and routine maintenance.

• Help organize lumber, materials, vessels, and trailers.

• Support inventory tracking of materials and supplies as directed.

• Follow all safety protocols related to tool use, chemical handling, and personal protective equipment.

Volunteer & Program Support - 10%

• Support volunteer work sessions by assisting with setup, cleanup, and basic instruction as appropriate.

• Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers during maintenance days and special projects.

• Assist with organization-wide projects and events related to vessel maintenance or waterfront operations..

Apprenticeship Learning & Development - 5%

• Participate in on-the-job learning, skill-building, and mentorship provided by the Boatwright.

• Build foundational skills in wooden boat construction, repair techniques, and shop best practices over the course of the six-month term.

• Receive informal feedback and guidance on technical skills, safety, and professional practices.

Qualifications and Skills

Required:

• Strong interest in wooden boatbuilding, woodworking, maritime trades, or hands-on craft work.

• Willingness to learn and follow instructions in a shop, yard, and waterfront environment.

• Ability to work safely with hand and power tools under supervision.

• Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Physical ability to perform the duties described below.

• Ability to pass a background check.

• Signing of a Non-Disclosure Agreement is required.

Strongly Preferred:

• Coursework or training in woodworking, boatbuilding, carpentry, or related trades.

• Prior experience in a shop, boatyard, or hands-on maintenance environment.

• Familiarity with small boats, sailing, or maritime environments.

• Interest in nonprofit, educational, or community-based work.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

This position requires regular physical activity associated with carpentry shop work, yard operations, and waterfront vessel maintenance. The employee must be able to safely perform the following duties with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Frequently stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, and lift in shop, yard, dock, and vessel environments.

• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials, tools, and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, with heavier items moved using team lifting or mechanical assistance.

• Use hand and power tools requiring grip strength, coordination, and fine motor skills.

• Work on and around vessels that may be elevated, blocked, or afloat.

• Tolerate prolonged periods outdoors and in a shop environment, including exposure to dust, noise, marine chemicals, and varying weather conditions.

Work is performed primarily in a carpentry shop, outdoor yard, and on docks and vessels. Conditions may include uneven or wet surfaces, noise from tools and marine activity, and variable weather. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Disclaimer:

This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of this position. All CWB employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed, to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Center for Wooden Boats is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

To Apply:

Applicants must submit the following to be considered:

1) Letter of Interest

2) Work Experience/Education Resume

3) Contact info for three professional references.

Please email all materials to hiring@cwb.org with “Boatwright Apprentice Applicant” in the subject line.