About Sunseeker International
Sunseeker International is a global icon in the manufacture of luxury motor yachts, building market leading products since 1967.
Based and manufactured in Poole on the south coast of England, Sunseeker is one of Dorset’s largest private employers and is represented on every continent by a global network of distributors. Never settling for second best, it’s this spirit of excellence that has driven Sunseeker to its leading position in the marine industry today.
Role overview:
As a Carpentry Boatbuilder, you will develop and refine traditional joinery skills used to fit out highquality vessels. Your work will involve installing essential interior components including galleys, cabins, and ensuites. Throughout the role, you’ll build strong carpentry abilities that contribute directly to the craftsmanship and reputation of our brand. Throughout your training, you will develop strong foundational carpentry skills and excellent team working abilities across multiple trades. Working alongside experienced professionals, you’ll help build vessels that meet a world class standard for quality and performance.
Salary: £10.85 per hour in year one, rising to £16.03 per hour upon completion of training after year four
Employment Type: Four year fixed term training contract
Working Hours: 7:00am to 3:30pm
College Hours: 8:30am to 5:00pm (block release - full week of study)
Working Location: Sunseeker Shipyards, New Quay Road, Poole, BH15 4AB
Example responsibilities include:
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Installing intermediate bulkheads and flooring panels
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Fitting and laminating a wide range of supporting plywood pads
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Installing cabin furniture in areas such as dining spaces, saloons, and accommodation areas
- Completing full ensuite installations, including tiling
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Fitting custom upholstered or sprayed ceiling and window band features
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Working with veneers, solid timber, and spray-finished panels
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Interpreting drawings and client specifications
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General housekeeping and application of LEAN manufacturing tools such as 5S
Our ideal candidate:
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Holds 5 GCSEs (predicted or achieved) including English and Maths at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent, such as a relevant level 1 (or higher) vocational qualification (NVQ, C&G, etc)
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Is available to commence employment in September 2026
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Has ambition to work in a fast paced construction environment within a factory setting
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Is able to provide some examples of your interest in Carpentry/Joinery. For example; work experience completed in this field, or home/school/club projects you have worked on
Sunseeker apprentices benefit from:
Alongside the opportunity to work closely with our remarkable products, Sunseeker offers a comprehensive benefits package to Apprentices.
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Sunseeker provides a rewarding career starting with a four year fixed term training contract working towards a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Boat Building (wood pathway)
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Paid block release to college
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22 days holidays plus bank holidays
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A generous company pension scheme - 6% employer contribution
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Company sick pay
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Overtime when available (for those 18 or older)
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The opportunity for a permanent contract with private medical insurance, dental care and an extra 3 days holiday after four years. Promotion opportunities and further education options also exist on the completion of training.
Our pay rates
Grading pay through the Apprenticeship is currently as follows and is subject to change:
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Year 1. £10.85 p/h irrespective of age
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Year 2. £12.71 p/h
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Year 3. £14.42 p/h
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Year 4. £15.50 p/h
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On completion up to £16.03 p/h plus options to earn up to £16.53 p/h with a discretionary and non-contractual “Values” uplift and regular team based performance payments.
There is no maximum age restriction or requirement for apprenticeship funding, however the pay grades remain the same. Any employment offers will be conditional upon; The Company receiving two acceptable references, proving your ongoing right to work in the UK and satisfactory evidence of your achieved qualifications. Key dates for assessment and interview processes to be confirmed. You must be available to start on Tuesday 1 September 2026
