Carpenter

What does a shipwright do? – Tasks and work environment

A shipwright primarily works within the boat and shipbuilding industry, where tasks revolve around manufacturing, repairing, and furnishing boats. This can involve building custom wood details, installing interiors, or performing advanced carpentry on both new and older vessels. The work is often carried out in large shipyard halls or directly onboard ships, which means an environment where precision and accuracy are crucial. A shipwright is expected to master both traditional craftsmanship techniques and modern tools, while adhering to high safety and quality standards in a often damp and noisy work environment.

Salary development over time

The salary for shipwrights has shown some variation over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,400 SEK per month, rising in 2023 to 33 000 SEK. In 2024, the salary has slightly decreased to 32 300 SEK, which is about a 2.1 % decrease compared to the previous year. This decline can partly be explained by increased competition within the profession and an oversupply of labor, as also noted by the Swedish Employment Agency. Despite steady demand for shipwrights, salary development has been affected by industry cycles and technological advancements that demand new skills. Overall, the profession maintains a relatively stable salary level with minor fluctuations depending on market needs and the availability of qualified workers.

Shipwright salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: Data not available
• Highest salary: Data not available
• Hourly wage: 194 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Only data for men (32 300 SEK/month), no specific statistics for women
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To become a shipwright, a high school education in fine carpentry or wood technology is usually required, often supplemented with specialization in boat and ship carpentry. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer applicants who have completed apprenticeships or internships within the shipbuilding industry. In addition to formal education, good material knowledge and the ability to work with both hand tools and machinery are important.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program with specialization in fine carpentry (3 years)
• Specialized courses: Advanced courses in boat and ship carpentry
• Internships: Apprenticeships or internships within the shipyard or boat industry are recommended
• Certifications: Vocational certificates in carpentry can be advantageous
• Prerequisites: Practical experience with woodwork and machinery is often required

Common benefits and compensations

Shipwrights are often covered by collective agreements that include occupational pensions, insurances, and compensation for unsocial hours. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for skills development through courses and further training. In some cases, subsidized lunches or travel allowances are also offered depending on the workplace location.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for shipwrights is characterized by relatively high competition, with the Swedish Employment Agency estimating an oversupply of labor within the profession. The number of available jobs is limited compared to the number of trained workers, making it difficult to secure permanent positions, especially in smaller regions. Challenges also stem from industry cycles and technological development, where demand for traditional craftsmanship skills can fluctuate. To stand out, specialized skills or experience with unique materials and techniques are often necessary.

Tips for those wishing to become a shipwright

To succeed as a shipwright, being meticulous and patient is important, as the work often requires great precision and concentration. An interest in wood and craftsmanship is a valuable trait and can facilitate learning new techniques. Flexibility and the ability to collaborate with other professionals on the shipyard are also crucial, as projects are often complex and require teamwork. Practical experience, preferably through internships or apprenticeships, provides a solid foundation and can make it easier to find employment. Staying updated on new materials and tools is also advantageous, especially as technological development progresses rapidly. Finally, being solution-oriented and creative is beneficial, as each boat project often presents unique challenges.

Key facts about shipwrights

• Educational level: High school education or equivalent with specialization in fine carpentry
• Work environment: Shipyard, boat workshop, or ship environment
• Type of employment: Full-time, fixed-term, or hourly employment
• Demand: Limited job opportunities, oversupply of labor
• Special skills: Wood processing, machinery handling, interior carpentry for boats

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a shipwright, there are opportunities to specialize in areas such as classic boat restoration, advanced interior carpentry, or supervisory roles at the shipyard. Some choose to further educate themselves as boat builders or start their own business in boat and interior carpentry. According to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecast for joiners and furniture carpenters, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but competition for jobs remains high. Those with unique specialized skills or experience with modern materials and techniques have better chances of employment and advancement within the profession.

Frequently asked questions about shipwrights

• What is the average salary of a shipwright?
  - A shipwright has an average salary of 32 300 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development for shipwrights looked over time?
  - Salaries have varied between 30,400 SEK and 33 000 SEK over the past three years, with a slight decline in the most recent year.
• What education is required to become a shipwright?
  - High school education in fine carpentry or wood technology is recommended, preferably with practical experience in the shipbuilding industry.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Statistics are only available for men (32 300/month); specific data for women is not available.
• What is the job market like for shipwrights?
  - There is an oversupply of labor and high competition for jobs.
• What is the most common type of employment?
  - Full-time employment is most common, but fixed-term and hourly positions also exist.
• What special skills are in demand?
  - Experience with classic wooden boats, advanced interior work, and knowledge of new materials are highly valued.