Current Vacancies @VQ

Boatyard Operative

Company: Victoria Quay (A division of UK Docks Marine Services South Ltd)
Location: Victoria Quay, Royal Clarence Yard, Gosport, PO12 1AX
Job Type: Full-time / Permanent
Hours: 39 hours per week, occasional out-of-hours work
Reporting to: Boatyard Operations Manager / Boatyard Supervisor
Salary: Dependent on experience

About the Role

We are seeking a Boatyard Operative to join our 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.

Key Responsibilities

Vessel Handling & Boatyard Operations

  • Assist with the lifting, launching, recovery and manoeuvring of vessels

  • Support the safe storage of vessels ashore using cradles, blocks, and stands.

  • Carry out high-pressure washing

  • Assist with towing boats and pontoon movements where required

Machinery & Equipment

  • Operate the boat hoists, mobile crane, self-propelled boat transporter, forklift, and 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

  • Provide a friendly, professional, and helpful service to customers, visitors, and contractors

  • 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

  • Maintain accurate records in line with company procedures

 

What We’re Looking For

Essential

  • Experience in a boatyard, marina, shipyard, or marine leisure environment

  • A positive, reliable, and safety-conscious approach to work

  • Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions

  • Physically fit and comfortable with manual handling tasks

  • Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of 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

  • Full UK driving licence

  • Existing qualifications (e.g. forklift, crane, slinger/signaller, PB2, VHF, first aid, etc.)

Previous experience is advantageous — training provided where necessary.

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

 

Interested in joining the team? Please send your CV and covering letter to Harry Eccles, Boatyard Operations Manager - harry.eccles@victoriaquay.net
Direct applications only - no agency approaches for this role.

(Role posted 14 October 2026)