We are looking for a qualified boatyard operator to join our team in Mount Batten.
- Boatyard Operator
- Full time
- Based at Plymouth Yacht Haven, Shaw Way, Plymouth, PL9 9XH
About Us
With nine marinas in the UK and Europe, and four sites on the River Plym, Yacht Havens Group is a major player in the Marine & Leisure industry and offers all the benefits and stability you would expect from a forward-thinking employer.
We are seeking a full-time Boatyard Operator / Bosun to join our team at Plymouth Yacht Haven, winner and runners up of the UK Marina of the Year title in recent years.
The Role
This is a customer facing role, often the first point of contact for our 450 berth holders and frequent visiting boats. You must be confident and have the ability to make a great first impression. Good communication and people skills are a must, together with a flexible and ‘can do’ work ethic.
Some of your regular duties will include:
- Providing maintenance support of plant, pontoons and infrastructure around the marina and buildings as required.
- Operating hoist/crane/forklift for boat movements within the yard.
- Moving vessels from berth to dock & dock to berth.
- Chocking/propping of boats adhering to company procedures.
- Monitoring arrivals & departures of vessels/property within the yard and car parks.
- Being flexible to assist in any extra duties requested by the Yard Supervisor and/or Marina Manager.
You’ll need a "can-do" attitude to resolving problems and finding solutions in a variety of environments around our busy marina.
You’ll be involved in machinery, plant and site maintenance, often working outside and in all-weathers. You need to enjoy new challenges and relish your adaptability!
About You
We believe that our positive interaction with our customers is our biggest strength in the marketplace. Whatever your background, you’ll be looking to excel whilst enjoying the benefits of working in a varied role, outdoors, and by the water. You’ll need to take pride in a job well done, with an eye for detail, whilst reassuring our customers that their boats are safe in your hands.
Essential requirements:
- Proven experience operating heavy plant safely and confidently.
- Understanding of safe working environments.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a friendly and approachable personality.
- Strong organisational skills with an ability to multitask and prioritise effectively.
- Good attention to detail and accuracy.
- Proactive and forward-thinking.
- Ability to stay calm under pressure.
- Proficient computer skills and a professional telephone manner.
- Flexible and adaptable "can-do" attitude.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- A full UK driving licence.
Desirable, but not essential:
- Experience of working with boats and operating hoists/cranes/forklifts for boat movements is useful but not essential; what’s most important to us is that you are positive, outgoing and friendly, and willing to learn new skills.
- Certification for the use of plant and equipment
Full training will be given, so whether your background is in boatyards, boatbuilding, engineering, or general machinery, you’ll be given plenty of support to develop your skillset.
Specifications
This is a permanent position of 40 hours per week which may include some weekends on a rota business.
- Salary: Competitive salary of £26,500 - £30,000 DOE
- Company pension scheme
- Healthcare insurance after completion of probationary period
- 33 days leave including bank holidays
- Electric car scheme and discounted bikes through the Cycle To Work scheme
- Training opportunities and career development
To Apply
To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you would be the right fit for this role to: Steve Cox, Marina Manager
steve.cox@plymouthyachthaven.com
Closing date: 15th May 2026
Applications will be followed up after the closing date.
