Senior Sailmaker

Location: Hamble, Hampshire

Company: SO31 Sailmakers / Quantum Sails Hamble

Position: Full-time

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Senior Sailmaker to join our team in Hamble. This is a hands-on role suited to an established sailmaker who takes pride in producing high-quality workmanship and delivering excellent service to our customers.

The role will focus primarily on sail repairs, sail servicing and the manufacture of bespoke marine canvas products. While there will be opportunities to work on new sail production, this will form a smaller part of the overall workload.

The successful candidate will be confident working independently, managing jobs from assessment through to completion, and maintaining the high standards expected by our customers.

Key ResponsibilitiesSail Repairs and Servicing

• Carry out a wide range of sail repairs, alterations and servicing work.
• Inspect sails, identify damage and recommend appropriate repairs or remedial work.
• Undertake UV strip replacements, stitching repairs, patching, batten pocket repairs and other sail modifications.
• Service and maintain sails to extend their working life and performance.
• Ensure all completed work meets the required quality and durability standards.

Marine Canvas

• Manufacture bespoke marine canvas products,
• Measure, pattern, cut and fabricate canvas products to suit individual vessels.
• Carry out canvas repairs, alterations and replacement work.
• Work with a range of marine fabrics, materials, fastenings and hardware.
• Ensure a high-quality finish, accurate fit and attention to detail on every project..

Workshop and Customer Responsibilities

• Manage allocated jobs and prioritise work to meet agreed deadlines.
• Maintain an organised, safe and efficient workshop.
• Ensure materials and equipment are used effectively and waste is minimised.
• Communicate clearly with colleagues and, where required, customers about job requirements and progress.
• Support the wider team in maintaining high standards of customer service and workmanship.

Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Proven experience as a professional sailmaker.
• Strong practical skills in sail repairs, servicing and industrial sewing.
• Experience working with marine canvas, including patterning and fabrication.
• Ability to work independently, assess jobs and identify appropriate solutions.
• High standards of workmanship, accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• A practical, flexible and reliable approach to work.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of different sailcloths, laminates, marine fabrics and associated materials.
• Experience working in a busy sailmaking loft or marine workshop.
• A good understanding of sailing and the requirements of cruising and racing yachts.

Personal Attributes

• Takes pride in producing high-quality work.
• Self-motivated and comfortable taking ownership of jobs.
• Practical, methodical and solution-focused.
• Works well as part of a small team.
• Understands the importance of deadlines and customer satisfaction.
• Willing to support different areas of the business as workload requires.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to work with an established sailmaking business in the Solent.
• A varied role covering sail repairs, servicing and bespoke marine canvas projects.
• A practical, hands-on working environment within an experienced team.
• The opportunity to apply your experience and take responsibility for the quality of your work.
• Competitive salary, dependent on experience.