Job Description
About Sunseeker International
Sunseeker International is a global icon in the manufacture of luxury motor yachts, building market leading products since 1967.
Based and manufactured in Poole on the south coast of England, Sunseeker is one of Dorset’s largest private employers and is represented on every continent by a global network of distributors. Never settling for second best, it’s this spirit of excellence that has driven Sunseeker to its leading position in the marine industry today.
Role overview
As a Marine Engineer, you will gain hands‑on experience installing a wide range of mechanical, hydraulic, and stabilisation systems. You’ll work to precise tolerances while fitting engines, gearboxes, propulsion systems, fuel systems, and all associated components. Throughout your training, you will develop strong foundational engineering skills and exceptional team‑working abilities across multiple trades. Working alongside experienced professionals, you’ll help build engine rooms that set a world‑class standard for quality and performance.
Please note, this role may not be suitable for you if you are looking for a servicing and maintenance apprenticeship.
Salary: £7.85 per hour in year one, rising to £15.55 per hour upon completion of training after year four, plus overtime
Employment Type: Four year fixed term training contract
Working Hours: 7:00am to 3:30pm
College Hours: 8:30am to 5:00pm (block release - full week of study)
Working Location: Sunseeker Shipyards, New Quay Road, Poole, BH15 4AB
Example responsibilities include
- Installing engines, gearboxes, and generators
- Fitting prop shafts and steering systems
- Installing hydraulic systems
- Installing fire suppression systems
- Preparing and fitting engines from multiple manufacturers
- Vessel stabilisation systems
- Installing fuel systems for engines and generators
- Installing cooling systems for engines and generators
- Interpreting drawings and client specifications
- General housekeeping and application of LEAN manufacturing tools such as 5S
Our ideal candidate
- Holds 5 GCSEs (predicted or achieved) including English, Maths at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent, such as a relevant level 1 (or higher) vocational qualification (NVQ, C&G, etc) - essential
- Is available to commence employment in September 2026
- Has ambition to work in a fast paced construction environment within a factory setting (note: this apprenticeship is not based on the water)
- Is able to provide some examples of your interest in engineering. For example; work experience completed in this field, or home/school/club projects you have worked on
Sunseeker apprentices benefit from
Alongside the opportunity to work closely with our remarkable products, Sunseeker offers a comprehensive benefits package to Apprentices.
- Sunseeker provides a rewarding career starting with a four year fixed term training contract working towards a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Marine Engineering
- Paid block release to college
- 22 days holidays plus bank holidays
- A generous company pension scheme - 6% employer contribution
- Company sick pay
- Overtime when available (for those 18 or older)
- The opportunity for a permanent contract with private medical insurance, dental care and an extra 3 days holiday after four years. Promotion opportunities and further education options also exist on the completion of training.
Our pay rates
Grading pay through the Apprenticeship is currently as follows and is subject to change:
- Year 1. £7.85 p/h irrespective of age
- Year 2. £10.00 p/h (Aged 21 and over £12.21)
- Year 3. £12.21
- Year 4. £14.00 p/h
- On completion up to £15.55 p/h plus options to earn up to £16.05 p/h with a discretionary and non-contractual “Values” uplift and regular team based performance payments.
There is no maximum age restriction or requirement for apprenticeship funding, however the pay grades remain the same. Any employment offers will be conditional upon; The Company receiving two acceptable references, proving your ongoing right to work in the UK and satisfactory evidence of your achieved qualifications. Key dates for assessment and interview processes to be confirmed. You must be available to start on Tuesday 1 September 2026.