Hull builder, wood

What does a wooden hull builder do? – Tasks and work environment

A wooden hull builder works with constructing, repairing, and maintaining boat hulls and other wooden structures within the boat industry. Tasks include selecting and processing materials, assembling, gluing, and shaping wooden details according to drawings and specifications. The work often takes place in boatyards, workshops, or small specialized carpentry shops where both hand tools and machinery are used. The work environment can vary but is often characterized by physical labor, high noise levels, and sometimes working in confined spaces. Precision, accuracy, and an understanding of material properties are crucial in this profession.

Salary development over time

The salary for a wooden hull builder has fluctuated slightly over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,400 SEK per month, increasing to 33 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has slightly decreased to 32 300 SEK per month, representing a reduction of approximately 2.1% compared to the previous year. This trend indicates a certain salary stagnation, possibly due to an increased supply of labor in the profession and unchanged demand, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service. The market for craft professions like wooden hull builders is also influenced by the economic situation in the boat industry and general investments in leisure boats and wooden structures.

Wooden hull builder, salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 300 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable
• Hourly wage: 194 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Data available only for men: 32 300 SEK/month (women: data unavailable)
• Regional differences: Specific regional salary differences are not provided

Education and qualifications

To work as a wooden hull builder, a high school education in wood technology, carpentry, or boat building is usually required. Many employers also value practical experience or apprenticeship training, as the profession demands high craftsmanship skills and material knowledge. Some choose to supplement their education with specialized courses in boat construction and woodworking.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program with specialization in wood technology or carpentry (3 years)
• Higher vocational education: Programs in boat building or advanced woodworking (1–2 years)
• Practical experience: Apprenticeship or internship at a boatyard is strongly recommended
• Courses: Specialized courses in boat construction and woodworking
• Prerequisites: Precision, technical understanding, and interest in craftsmanship

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for further training are offered. Some employers may also provide bonuses for larger projects, as well as insurance and pension contributions according to collective agreements. Workplace safety measures and ergonomic aids are common in physically demanding environments.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession is relatively high, as the number of trained wooden hull builders often exceeds the demand on the labor market. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the profession is characterized by an oversupply of labor, and job opportunities are limited at the national level. Challenges mainly involve securing permanent employment or long-term projects, especially in regions where the boat industry is limited. At the same time, Swedish wooden hull builders compete with international players and prefabricated materials, which requires specialization and high quality. Technological development and increased automation may also impact the job market in the future.

Tips for those who want to become a wooden hull builder

To succeed as a wooden hull builder, having a strong sense of detail and materials is beneficial, meaning that accuracy and patience are crucial in daily work. Practical experience, preferably through internships or apprenticeships, provides valuable insights and increases employability. Good teamwork skills are important, as work often occurs in teams and in close dialogue with clients or colleagues at the yard. Being solution-oriented helps with unexpected challenges during the construction process, especially when working on special projects that require creativity and flexibility. Engagement in craftsmanship and a desire to continually improve skills are qualities appreciated by employers. An interest in boats and maritime life can also make the profession more rewarding and help build networks within the industry. Finally, it is important to be resilient and maintain good physical condition, as the work is often physically demanding and can involve long working hours.

Key facts about Wooden Hull Builders

• Education level: High school or vocational training in wood technology or carpentry
• Work environment: Workshop, boatyard, or small carpentry shop
• Typical employment type: Full-time, but project-based employment also exists
• Demand: Limited opportunities, surplus of labor
• Special skills: Craftsmanship and material knowledge in wood

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession as a wooden hull builder, it is common to specialize in advanced wood constructions, project management, or start one's own boat-building business. Some choose to further their education in design, construction, or restoration of classic wooden boats. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts indicate that opportunities within the professions of fine, interior, and furniture carpentry are limited, with a labor surplus. Over a five-year horizon, demand is expected to remain unchanged nationally. Despite this, there are approximately 341 job openings in the profession, which suggests that opportunities may exist for those with the right skills and willingness to relocate or take on project-based work.

Frequently asked questions about Wooden Hull Builders

• What does a wooden hull builder earn?
  - The average salary is 32 300 SEK per month for men, with an hourly wage of 194 SEK. Data for women is unavailable.
• What education is required to become a wooden hull builder?
  - High school education in wood technology or carpentry, along with practical experience or an apprenticeship, is recommended.
• What is the job market like for wooden hull builders?
  - Opportunities are limited with a surplus of labor, but there are available jobs within the profession.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Accuracy, patience, teamwork skills, and good physical condition are essential.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, within specialized woodworking, project management, and boat construction courses.
• What are common work environments?
  - Workshops, boatyards, and small carpentry shops.
• What are the long-term career prospects?
  - Specialization, project management, and entrepreneurship are common paths after several years.