Carpenter/Joiner

Carpenter/Joiner

The joiner constructs, installs, repairs, and maintain wood and composite interior components on cruise ships. This includes cabinetry, wall paneling, trim, doors, and other custom woodwork that supportsshipboard operations, aesthetics, and passenger comfort. The Joiner works closely with interior design, engineering, and other maintenance teams to ensure high-quality workmanship, efficiency, and safety on a fast-moving ship environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, specifications, and sketches to determine materials and methods for fabrication and installation.
• Cut, shape, fit, assemble, install, and finish wood, plywood, laminates, veneers, and composite materials for cabinetry, paneling, doors, windows, moldings, and decorative elements.
• Fabricate and install curved or complex panels and trim to match ship curves and design specifications.
• Prepare substrates, apply finishes, varnishes, paints, stains, sealants, and protective coatings; ensure even coverage and proper curing.
• Install fixtures, hardware, hinges, fasteners, and soft close mechanisms; adjust for proper alignment and operation.
• Repair and replace damaged woodwork, paneling, and fittings as required during voyages or dry dock periods.
• Maintain a clean, organized workshop and tool inventory; report low stock or damages to the supervisor.
• Collaborate with interior designers, ship’s architects, and other trades to ensure compatibility and quality of workmanship.
• Contribute to preventive maintenance and small-scale repair projects during voyages and at port calls.
• Adhere to all safety, environmental, and quality standards; use PPE and follow shipboard safety procedures.
• Assist in dry-docking projects as assigned; document work performed, and materials used.
• Complete daily logs, work orders, and timekeeping accurately; communicate progress and any delays to the supervisor.
• Demonstrate a strong customer service mindset, maintaining a professional and respectful demeanor with guests and crew.

Qualifications & Training:

• Vocational training or apprenticeship in carpentry/joinery,
• Work experience in a realted role (minimum 2-5 years, previous experience onboard not essential)
• STCW safety awareness or equivalent maritime safety training - prefferable 
• Relevant carpentry qualifications or certificates (e.g., portable power tool training) 
• Competence with standard joinery tools and equipment (saws, planers, routers, chisels, nail guns thicknesses, sanding equipment, portable drills, hand tools).
• Knowledge of wood species, finishes, laminates, veneers, adhesives, fasteners, and humidity effects on wood.

Language Requirements

•  Ability to read and write in English to understand and interpret written work orders and safety procedures.
• Ability to communicate clearly with supervisors and crew; effective interpersonal skills.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Physical: Regularly perform manual labor; able to stand, walk, and use hands to manipulate tools; capable of lifting to 50 pounds.
• Vision: Adequate vision to read gauges, manuals, and work orders; depth perception for precise tasks.
• Environmental: Work on board a vessel in various weather and sea conditions; exposure to noise, heat, and moving equipment; must wear appropriate PPE and be prepared for shift work or on-call needs; able to operate in confined spaces and at heights as required. Full use of arms, legs, vision, hearing, and communication abilities is expected to perform duties effectively.

Additional Notes:  

• Candidates must be committed to safety and environmental standards.
• Work involves physical activity and exposure to challenging environments