Boat Builder Apprentice - Cheetah Marine

Job Posted: 20 March 2026

• Contract Term: Apprenticeships
• Location: Ventnor, Isle of Wight
• Contract Type: Full time
• Salary: £8 per hour
• Industries: Apprenticeships Engineering Marine

Here at The Isle of Wight College, we’re proud to partner with a wide network of dynamic employers across a diverse mix of industries. We’re excited to share a Boat Builder apprenticeship vacancy now open for applications at Cheetah Marine in Ventnor.

Cheetah Marine continues to lead Europe in the specialist design and construction of power catamarans.

Cheetah Catamarans are renowned in the commercial world where time at sea is dictated by the weather conditions a boat can operate in. Excellent stability and rough weather capabilities are crucial to sea conditions that many Cheetahs work in daily, year in, year out.

We combine our customer's specification with our knowledge and experience gained from building over 350 catamarans.

Due to continued growth and the success of our previous apprentices, we’re excited to offer a fantastic opportunity for a motivated and hands-on Boat Builder Apprentice to join our skilled production team.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to begin a career in marine manufacturing, gaining practical experience while working alongside experienced boat builders.

As an apprentice, you will learn the full boat-building process, from mould preparation to final fit-out, developing valuable technical skills in a supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities and Tasks:

• Assist in the construction of composite vessels, including hulls and decks
• Learn and apply fibreglass laminating techniques (GRP)
• Support in mould preparation, gel coating, and finishing processes
• Help with fitting out boats, including installation of fixtures and components
• Use hand and power tools safely and effectively
• Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment
• Follow technical drawings and instructions under supervision
• Work collaboratively with the production team to meet build deadlines

Essential Skills and Qualities:

• Strong interest in boats, engineering, or hands-on work
• Willingness to learn and develop practical skills
• Good attention to detail
• Positive attitude and strong work ethic
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Basic maths and English skills

Desirable (but not essential)

• Previous experience with tools or workshop environments
• Interest in marine industry or engineering
• Relevant school or college coursework (e.g., engineering, construction)

Qualifications required:

• Applicants must have the right to live and work in the UK.
• Proof of this will be required.
• GCSE grade C/4 or above in English & Maths (or equivalent qualification).

This is a mandatory requirement for the level of the apprenticeship.

Working Hours:

• 38 hours per week
• Monday to Friday

Apprenticeship Standard:

• Level 3 Boat Builder Apprenticeship.
• 4-year apprenticeship programme.

Alongside your practical daily work, you’ll take part in off-the-job training—dedicated time within your working week to develop your knowledge, skills, and behaviours through any new or online learning.

Wage:

• £8 per hour with potential to increase depending on experience.

If you're ready to start a career in a dynamic and growing industry, we’d love to hear from you!

Please do not contact the company directly, all applications must be made through www.isleofwightjobs.com

A short work trial may be organised following on from successful interview.

Additional information:

The current National Minimum Wage (NMW) rate for apprentices is £7.55 per hour. This applies to both 16-18-year-old apprentices and those aged over 19 in the first year of their Apprenticeship. The Minimum Wage for Apprentices applies to time spent on the job plus time spent training. For more information visit: www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates

Once qualified and dependant on needs of the business at the time of apprenticeship completion, there will be the potential to grow within the company and become part of a skilled workforce as a permanent employee.

Your details will be processed in accordance with GDPR.

So, if this sounds like the next, or indeed first step you want to take with your career, then please apply with a cover letter and CV telling us why you feel you would be the ideal person to take on this brilliant opportunity!!