National Museum of the Royal Navy

Job Overview

The National Museum of the Royal Navy (NMRN) is offering a rare opportunity for a skilled Shipwright (Heritage Carpenter) to join its conservation and collections team.

This position is based at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, home to some of Britain’s most iconic naval vessels — including HMS Warrior, HMS M33, and LCT 7074.

If you have experience in shipbuilding, joinery, or wooden vessel restoration, this role lets you use your craft to preserve the Royal Navy’s incredible heritage.

It’s a perfect fit for those who appreciate history, craftsmanship, and the pride of maintaining ships that tell Britain’s maritime story.

About the Organization

The National Museum of the Royal Navy (NMRN) is one of the UK’s leading maritime heritage institutions. It manages several museum sites, including those in Portsmouth, Gosport, Hartlepool, and Belfast, and its mission is simple — to connect the Royal Navy’s past, present, and future through its ships, submarines, and stories.

The museum operates as a registered charity and government-supported organization, dedicated to preserving over 1,000 years of naval history. NMRN’s team includes conservators, curators, engineers, and shipwrights who all share a commitment to maintaining authenticity and quality in restoration projects.

When you work here, you don’t just restore wood — you help bring history back to life.

Job Responsibilities

As a Heritage Shipwright, you’ll play a key role in maintaining and restoring wooden vessels that are part of Britain’s naval history.

Your duties will involve both traditional carpentry techniques and modern preservation methods.

Here’s what your day-to-day might include:

• Carrying out timber repair, joinery, and restoration on historic ships such as HMS Warrior and HMS M33.
• Assisting in large-scale conservation projects, including the world-famous HMS Victory restoration.
• Conducting routine inspections and maintenance on wooden hulls, decks, and interior fittings.
• Working closely with engineers, conservators, and curators to ensure historical accuracy and safety.
• Participating in on-site demonstrations and engaging with museum visitors about your restoration work.
• Occasionally traveling to other NMRN locations, such as Gosport, Hartlepool, or Belfast, for project support.
• Complying with all health and safety standards related to shipyard and workshop operations.

Required Skills and Qualifications

To qualify for this role, you’ll need both technical expertise and a genuine interest in maritime heritage.

Essential Skills:

• Strong woodworking, joinery, and construction skills.
• Understanding of shipwright or boatbuilding practices.
• Knowledge of wood conservation and traditional maritime materials.
• Ability to read and work from ship plans and drawings.
• Good teamwork and communication skills.
• Physical fitness to handle demanding, hands-on tasks.

Education / Certification:

• Level 3 City & Guilds qualification in Boat Building (2463-03), or equivalent woodworking qualification.
• Relevant hands-on experience in ship repair, heritage restoration, or construction.

Desirable:

• Previous experience working in a museum, shipyard, or historic dockyard setting.
• Knowledge of conservation ethics and museum collection care.

Salary and Benefits

Salary: £29,993 – £32,936 per year (depending on experience)

The National Museum of the Royal Navy provides a strong benefits package, including:

• 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays (increasing to 30 days after 5 years).
• Royal London pension plan (6% employer contribution, 2% employee contribution).
• Life insurance (death-in-service benefit).
• Enhanced maternity, adoption, and paternity pay.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Cycle-to-work scheme.
• Free admission to partner museums and attractions.
• Employee discounts in shops and cafés.
• Free and discounted tickets for family and friends.
• Paid reservist leave for those serving in the armed forces.

Work Environment

You’ll be working primarily at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, surrounded by naval history and craftsmanship. This is a hands-on role involving manual work, lifting, and outdoor conditions. Your work helps ensure that ships open to the public remain safe, stable, and historically accurate.

You’ll also join a small, experienced team that values craftsmanship and learning. Every project contributes directly to preserving the Royal Navy’s legacy for future generations.

Career Growth and Development

This role isn’t just about maintenance — it’s about career and personal growth.

As a Shipwright at NMRN, you’ll have opportunities to:

• Participate in high-profile conservation projects, including the restoration of HMS Victory.
• Learn advanced heritage preservation methods and traditional shipbuilding skills.
• Attend training and workshops in marine conservation.
• Move into senior technical or supervisory positions within the museum or heritage sector.

For someone passionate about woodwork, history, or maritime craft, this job is an incredible long-term career path.

Working Hours

• Full-time: 37.5 hours per week.
• Occasional weekend and evening work may be required for special projects or events.

Job Location

• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
• Portsmouth, PO1 3LJ
• United Kingdom

Occasional travel to other NMRN sites in Gosport, Hartlepool, and Belfast may be required.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply directly through the NMRN Careers Portal:
👉 https://jobs.nmrn.org.uk

Application Deadline: Midnight, 29 October 2025

If you have any questions before applying, contact:
📧 Roy Smith, Conservation and Maintenance Manager – roy.smith@nmrn.org.uk

or email recruitment@nmrn.org.uk for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the main purpose of this job?

A: The role focuses on preserving and maintaining historic naval ships through expert carpentry and restoration.

Q2: Do I need previous museum experience?

A: No, but experience in boatbuilding or woodworking is essential.

Q3: Is this a permanent position?

A: Yes, this is a full-time permanent role with long-term growth opportunities.

Q4: Can international candidates apply?

A: Unfortunately, NMRN cannot currently sponsor work visas. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Q5: Will I work on HMS Victory?

A: The successful candidate may have the opportunity to contribute to the HMS Victory conservation project.

Q6: What’s the interview process?

A: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an on-site interview in Portsmouth. Interview questions will be shared in advance.

Disclaimer

TechBasics101.com is not a recruiting agency. We share verified job updates to help users find authentic career opportunities from trusted sources. Applicants should always apply through the official NMRN website or verified recruitment channels. We do not request payment or personal information for job applications.