Marine Sailmaker

Harness the wind’s power as a Marine Sailmaker.

Craft the wings that propel vessels across vast oceans. These skilled artisans blend traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to create sails that stand up to the rigors of the sea.

Marine Sailmakers are specialised craftspeople who design, construct, and repair sails for various types of watercrafts, from small dinghies to large yachts and commercial vessels. They play a crucial role in the maritime industry, ensuring that boats and ships have efficient, durable, and well-fitted sails.

In their day-to-day work, Marine Sailmakers use a combination of hand tools and advanced computer-aided design (CAD) software to create precise sail patterns. They work with a variety of materials, including traditional canvas and modern synthetic fabrics, selecting the best option based on the vessel’s requirements and sailing conditions.

A typical day for a Marine Sailmaker might involve measuring a boat for a new sail, cutting and sewing sail panels, installing reinforcements and hardware, and conducting repairs on damaged sails. They must have a keen eye for detail, strong problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of sailing dynamics to create sails that optimise a vessel’s performance.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

  1. Design and draft sail patterns using CAD software
  2. Cut, sew, and assemble sail panels and components
  3. Install grommets, reinforcements, and other hardware on sails
  4. Repair and modify existing sails
  5. Consult with clients to determine their specific sailing needs

Becoming a Marine Sailmaker typically doesn’t require a formal qualification to start, but a combination of technical skills, sailing knowledge, and hands-on experience is essential. Often commencing an apprenticeship is a good entry point. Here are steps to pursue this career:

  1. Gain sailing experience to understand how sails work
  2. Complete an entry level vocational course in textile fabrication or sailmaking
  3. Research employers and apply for apprenticeships or entry-level positions. Even if an employer doesn’t have a role listed consider send a letter and resume through to express your interest.
  4. Develop skills in CAD software and modern sailmaking techniques
Also Known As:
  • Sail Maker
  • Sail Technician
  • Canvas Worker
  • Yacht Rigger
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a marine sailmaker include:

  • Material knowledge
  • Measurement and mathematics
  • Problem solving
  • Technical drawing and interpretation
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a marine sailmaker include:

  • Attention to detail
  • Creative
  • Patience
  • Adaptable
  • Customer-focus
  • Artistic – “Creator”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Design
  • Engineering Skills
  • Industrial Technology Skills
Core School Subjects:
  • General Mathematics
  • Essential English
  • Industrial Graphics Skills
  • Marine Science

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for Marine Sailmaker can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$50,000
Median
$65,000
High
$80,000

An apprenticeship with a manufacturer is the best pathway to gain employment in this role. You can undertake the following qualifications as apprenticeships:

  • Certificate III in Manufactured Textile Products (MST30222)

As an apprentice you will combine work with formal training, allowing you to gain practical skills and knowledge in a specific trade while earning a salary.

Duration: Apprenticeships typically last up to 4 years for full-time participants. Part-time apprenticeships may take longer, depending on the individual’s work schedule and training progress.

Work and study combination: As an apprentice, you will work either full-time or part-time while receiving formal training from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). School-based apprenticeships may be available.

Eligibility: Generally, apprenticeships do not require any formal qualifications to enter, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals, including if you are a school leaver or someone looking to change careers. There are minimum age requirements and there may be other eligibility criteria.

Completion: On completion you will receive a nationally recognised trade qualification, showcasing your skill and experience.

Skills, qualifications, accreditations and licences

A Marine Sailmaker may choose to pursue other training or certifications, licences and tickets. Qualifications and skills may be required to progress to supervisor or team leader positions.

You could advance your career with the following qualifications:

  • Certificate III in Marine Craft Construction (MEM30719)
  • Certificate IV in Textile Design and Technology (MST40122)

For leadership roles or specialised skills consider the following:

  • Certificate IV in Leadership and Management (BSB40520)
  • Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820)

Holding a degree in human resources, finance, economics, marketing or management can be helpful if you are considering taking a step into leadership or a business ownership position.

Undertaking higher level learning at an undergraduate or graduate level in a design or engineering field would support deeper learning of technical concepts and theories, and support career advancement.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

Explore the transport and machinery industry

At the heart of Australia’s industrial landscape lies the transport and machinery manufacturing sub-industry, a powerhouse sector that quite literally drives the nation forward. This dynamic industry is responsible for producing the vehicles, equipment, and machinery that keep Australia’s economy in motion, from the bustling cities to the vast outback.

Transport, equipment and machinery industry