Van Dam Custom Boats

Contact:
Ben Van Dam, President at  or  x104

Van Dam Custom Boats is hiring a full-time, year-round Experienced Woodworker to join our team of Craftspeople building the world’s finest wooden boats. Whether you identify as a cabinet maker, furniture maker, or master craftsperson, this role offers an opportunity to elevate your skills and transition into the art of a Cold Molded Boat Builder.

You won’t be starting over, you will build on your knowledge and understanding of working with different wood species, tools and machinery found in our woodshop. Your existing skills will be honored and immediately put to use in hull preparation, interior joinery, and structural layout, while learning specialized techniques through hands-on mentorship.

As you grow in this role, you’ll take on increasing responsibility, and depending on your progress, performance and drive, this could lead to opportunities as a key team member on full boat buildouts – from blueprint to launch.

We are seeking a person who is thirsty for a rewarding and challenging career in our world-renowned small family business. We aim to be the best in the industry; this is a dynamic opportunity for a passionate professional to contribute to VAN DAM’s tradition of excellence in craftsmanship.

Pay: $25.00 to $33.00 – negotiable, dependent upon experience and skills

TIMELINE:
Applications due 10/31/25
;
Stage 1 screening calls will take place 11/3/25 until 11/7/25;
Stage 2 on-site interviews will take place 11/10/25 to 11/14/25 -;
Desired start date is 12/15/25 or sooner.

• Blueprint Interpretation and Woodworking:
  Interpret and execute designs from blueprints while applying expert woodworking skills to marine-grade materials and boat components. Assist with hull preparation, structural layout, and joinery to ensure every project meets Van Dam’s high standards of craftsmanship.
• Hands-On Learning and Mentorship:
  Learn cold-molded construction techniques through direct mentorship, participate in restoration projects, and shadow experienced boat builders during lamination and fairing. Contribute to quality control while maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient workspace.
• Team Collaboration and Growth:
  Work closely with senior builders and project managers, attending technical workshops and team meetings to expand your skills. Communicate effectively with teammates to ensure smooth project execution and a collaborative shop environment.
• Advanced Responsibilities (Post-Training):
  Participate in full-cycle boat builds from hull to final assembly and perform restorations on traditionally built boats including plank replacement, frame repair, and rot remediation. Interpret complex shop drawings, mentor apprentices and junior woodworkers, take ownership of assigned projects, and represent Van Dam craftsmanship in client interactions and industry forums.

• $400 annual tool allowance
• $200 crew gear stipend in the first year, $150 each year after.
• Profit-sharing plan
• After-hours shop/tool access
• Paid certifications and training
• $1,500 employee referral program
• Reliable schedule with minimal weekends
• Company-sponsored events
• Relocation Assistance and Signing Bonus Available for qualified Candidates
• 401(k) with company contribution
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off and holidays

• 5+ years in fine woodworking, cabinetry, furniture making, or millwork
• Proven ability in high-end joinery and precision woodwork
• Deep understanding of wood behavior, adhesives, finishes, and structure
• Ability to read technical drawings and blueprints
• Strong problem-solving and proactive craftsmanship
• Willingness to learn cold-molded boat building and marine systems
• Experience…