Constructs, fits out and repairs ships.

Studies plans and specifications, and prepares templates and scale plans for fabrication and cutting of hull sections; marks reference points and lines on dry docks and slipways; checks position and functioning of slipway apparatus; assembles shells of boats and erecting hull sections of ship; erects and prepares launching platforms, conducting pre-launch tests and supervising launching procedures; installs masts, frames, decking, fittings, machines, shafts and safety equipment; builds and installs structures such as cabins, machine mountings, propeller supports and rudders; determines repair requirements and procedures; may make hull moulds and fabricate and repair vessels using materials such as aluminium, wood, glass, reinforced plastics, carbon fibre, Kevlar, fibreglass and concrete.

• Works both indoors in boat construction buildings and outdoors, including inside boat hulls and cabin areas.
• Work sites may be dirty, dusty and wet.
• Employees frequently work with either fibre-glass or wood.
• Work may occur at moderate heights and in confined spaces inside boat hulls.

• Physical demand level is medium to heavy.
• Standing and walking is frequently required about the worksite to move equipment, supplies and carry out various tasks. Sitting is not required.
• Stretching up and across is frequently required when working on boat hulls and fittings.
• Squatting, crouching and/or kneeling and twisting of the body or neck are occasionally required especially to access awkward spaces in boat hulls.
• Lifting and carrying, and bending is frequently required to transport construction materials and equipment about worksite.
• Repetitive movements are frequently required in regards to the use of hands and arms for sawing, hammering, screwing and other fixing tasks.
• Driving is not required.
• There is a requirement for the use of a range of hand, power and machine construction tools including hammers, handsaws, clamps, rivet guns, sanders and glue guns.
• Climbing ladders and on boat super-structure is occasionally required.
• Mental skills necessary include model-making, technical and boat-building, planning and organisational skills.

A New Zealand Register Level 4 qualification or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3). In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be sufficient. Registration or licensing may be required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.