Senior Aluminium Boat Fabricator 

Location: Bay of Islands, Northland, New Zealand
Pay Rate: $38.00 – $45.00 per hour (depending on experience)
Hours: 40–48 hours per week 

Lead the Future of Aluminium Boat Building 

Makaira Boats is redefining aluminium boat design. Our world-first Carolina Flare hull in aluminium is raising the bar globally—and we’re just getting started. 

Based in the beautiful Bay of Islands, we build high-performance boats to the highest standards, and we’re looking for a senior-level Fabricator to join our team. This is a rare opportunity to take on a hands-on role in a growing company at the forefront of marine innovation. 

The Opportunity 

We’re seeking an experienced Aluminium Boat Fabricator who is ready to move forward in their career. You’ll be working on cutting-edge vessels in a purpose-built facility, with a team of fabricators and helping shape how our boats are built—both on the workshop floor and in terms of process development guided by lean manufacturing principles. 

Makaira Boats operates with a flat, lean culture—decisions are made quickly, leadership is hands-on, and every team member’s input is valued. If you’re someone who thrives in a high-trust, no-nonsense environment where quality, efficiency, and innovation are top priorities, this role is for you. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Hands-on aluminium fabrication and welding (MIG & TIG) 
• Lead and mentor a team of fabricators to deliver high-quality work 
• Coordinate daily workflow and manage job priorities 
• Ensure all work meets company quality, safety, and time standards 
• Collaborate with engineering and design teams to refine build processes 
• Assist in developing and implementing Lean Manufacturing techniques to reduce waste and improve workflow 
• Interpret and communicate design files and technical drawings 
• Actively contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration 

What You Bring 

• 8+ years’ experience in aluminium boat building or marine fabrication
• Strong MIG and TIG welding skills to a high standard 
• Previous team leadership or supervisory experience would be advantageous 
• Deep understanding of marine construction and welding procedures 
• Willing to adopt Lean Manufacturing and flat team structures 
• Excellent ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings 
• Strong organisational, problem-solving, and communication skills 
• Commitment to health & safety and quality craftsmanship 

What We Offer 

• Competitive hourly rate: $38–$45/hour plus bonuses depending on experience 
• Opportunities for international training – Japan & American Study missions 
• Flat team structure: No corporate layers—everyone has a voice and direct impact 
• Career growth: Be part of a leadership team shaping production processes and design feedback loops 
• Lean culture: Work in a clean, purpose-built factory designed for efficient workflow 
• Significant training investment in staff with international manufacturing courses  
• Work-life balance: 5-minute commute, no  city traffic 
• Dream location: Live and work in the stunning Bay of Islands 
• Supportive, hands-on team: Collaborative, respectful, and focused on getting better every day 
• The ability to join the Makaira Social Club – The club recently went to Queenstown and Tekapo with 20+ members. 

Additional Info 

• Must have the legal right to work in New Zealand 
• Full-time position (minimum 40 hours/week) 

 Ready to Lead in a Lean Environment? 

Join Makaira Boats and help shape the future of aluminium boat building from the ground up. Lead with your hands, drive efficiency, and contribute directly to a culture that values practical leadership over hierarchy. Build boats that turn heads around the world. 

Apply Now with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and leadership background. 

Conditions of Employment 

• Has the legal right to work in New Zealand 
• Must have at least 8 years’ experience within the boat building industry 
• Pay rate: $30.00 to $45.00 per hour 
• Minimum hours of work per week: 40 hours 
• Maximum hours of work per week: 48 hours 

Senior  Marine Electrician / Fit Out Technician  

Location: Bay of Islands, Northland, New Zealand
Pay Rate: $35.00 – $50.00 per hour (depending on experience)
Hours: 40–48 hours per week 

Lead the Future of Aluminium Boat Building 

Makaira Boats is redefining aluminium boat design. Our world-first Carolina Flare hull in aluminium is raising the bar globally—and we’re just getting started. 

We build high-performance boats to the highest standards, and we’re looking for a Senior fit out technician / team leader to join our team. This is a rare opportunity to take on a hands-on role in a growing company at the forefront of marine innovation. 

The Opportunity 

We’re seeking a senior-level Marine Electrician / Fit Out Technician who is ready to step into a role with real impact. You’ll be working on cutting-edge vessels in a purpose-built facility, installing and wiring advanced systems while shaping the processes that define our build standards. 

This role offers the opportunity to grow into a team leader, mentoring others while ensuring quality installations across a wide range of systems. Makaira Boats operates with a flat, lean culture—decisions are made quickly, leadership is hands-on, and every team member’s input is valued. 

Key Responsibilities 

-Lead and oversee all electrical and fit-out activities on new builds
-Read and interpret complex wiring diagrams, installation manuals, and design drawings
-Ensure systems are installed to marine standards and company specifications
-Wire and integrate advanced systems: navigation electronics, lithium battery banks, joystick steering, and solar power
-Mount, wire, and plumb inboard/outboard engines, diesel cookers, heaters, and other onboard systems
-Develop and maintain build standards for fit-out processes
-Troubleshoot technical issues, identify root causes, and deliver solutions under tight timeframes
-Protect and maintain boat quality throughout fit-out stages
-Mentor junior technicians and provide guidance on workmanship standards
-Contribute to Lean Manufacturing principles, improving workflow and reducing waste 

What You Bring 

• 8+ years’ experience in marine electrical systems and vessel fit-out within the boat building industry 
• Vessel handling skills, such as loading and unloading boats from trailers 
• Proven ability to lead or run fit-out stages, ensuring builds meet quality standards 
• Strong knowledge of 12V and lithium battery systems 
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and practical decision-making under pressure 
• Ability to set and uphold standards of workmanship and safety 
• High level of organisation, with a structured approach to planning fit-out stages 
• Confidence interpreting complex drawings and technical documents 
• Strong communication skills and ability to mentor and develop others 
• Commitment to delivering world-class boats that exceed customer expectations 

 What We Offer 

• Competitive hourly rate: $35–$45/hour plus bonuses depending on experience 
• Opportunities for international training – Japan & American Study missions 
• Flat team structure: No corporate layers—everyone has a voice and direct impact 
• Career growth: Be part of a leadership team shaping production processes and design feedback loops 
• Lean culture: Work in a clean, purpose-built factory designed for efficient workflow 
• Significant training investment in staff with international manufacturing courses  
• Work-life balance: 5-minute commute, no   city traffic 
• Dream location: Live and work in the stunning Bay of Islands 
• Supportive, hands-on team: Collaborative, respectful, and focused on getting better every day 
• The ability to join the Makaira Social Club – The club recently went to Queenstown and Tekapo with 20+ members. 

Additional Info 

• Must have the legal right to work in New Zealand 
• Full-time position (minimum 40 hours/week) 

Ready to Lead in a Lean Environment? 

Join Makaira Boats and take charge of the systems that bring our world-first designs to life. Lead with your hands, solve problems others can’t, and uphold the standards that make Makaira Boats a name recognised globally.  Apply Now with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and leadership background. 

Conditions of Employment 

• Has the legal right to work in New Zealand 
• Must have at least 8 years’ experience within the boat building industry 
• Pay rate: $35.00 to $50.00 per hour 
• Minimum hours of work per week: 40 hours 
• Maximum hours of work per week: 48 hours