Composite Boat Assembler in Georgia Career Overview

As a Composite Boat Assembler, you play a vital role in the marine manufacturing industry by constructing and assembling boats using composite materials. Your expertise contributes to creating high-quality vessels that are lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion, which are essential attributes for marine applications.

Key aspects of the role include:

  • Material Handling: You work with advanced composite materials such as fiberglass and carbon fiber, ensuring their proper application and integration.

  • Assembly Techniques: Utilizing a variety of assembly techniques, you join components together with precision to ensure the structural integrity of the boat.

  • Quality Control: Your attention to detail is vital. You inspect and test various components during and after assembly to ensure they meet industry standards and specifications.

  • Collaboration: You often work alongside other professionals, including engineers and designers, to ensure that the final product reflects the initial design and meets customer expectations.

  • Safety Practices: Adhering to safety protocols is paramount in the boat assembly process, as you handle potentially hazardous materials and equipment.

The significance of your role extends beyond mere assembly; it is about crafting reliable and high-performance boats that meet consumer needs while adhering to environmental considerations. Your work helps support Georgia’s maritime manufacturing sector, contributing to economic growth and the state's reputation in marine craftsmanship.

Composite Boat Assembler Salary in Georgia

Annual Median: $35,430
Hourly Median: $17.03

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Composite Boat Assembler in Georgia

To become a Composite Boat Assembler in Georgia, you typically need to meet specific educational qualifications and training requirements. Here are the relevant college degree programs that can prepare you for this career:

  • Building Construction Technology: This program provides knowledge in the construction methods, materials, and tools used in building structures, which can be beneficial in understanding boat assembly processes.

  • Construction Trades: Focusing on the various trades involved in construction, this program helps you acquire practical skills that are transferable to the field of composite boat assembly.

  • Industrial Production Technologies: This degree emphasizes the principles of production technology and systems, which can enhance your efficiency in manufacturing composite boats.

  • Tool and Die Technology: This program focuses on designing and fabricating tools and dies, which are essential in the manufacturing processes of composite materials.

  • Wooden Boatbuilding Technology: Although primarily focused on wooden boat construction, this program offers valuable insights into boat design and assembly that can be applied when working with composite materials.

In addition to degree programs, you may consider pursuing certifications or apprenticeships related to boat manufacturing and assembly to further enhance your qualifications.

Best Schools to become a Composite Boat Assembler in Georgia 2024

#1Calcasieu Parish

SOWELA Technical Community College

Lake Charles, LA

In-State Tuition:$3,335
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,335
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:40%
Total Enrollment:3,268
#2Stone County

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

Perkinston, MS

In-State Tuition:$3,300
Out-of-State Tuition:$6,600
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:44%
Total Enrollment:7,845
#3Ascension Parish

River Parishes Community College

Gonzales, LA

In-State Tuition:$3,335
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,335
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:32%
Total Enrollment:2,339
#4Jackson County

Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City

Kansas City, MO

In-State Tuition:$7,110
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,600
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:29%
Total Enrollment:12,872
#5San Diego County

CET-San Diego

San Diego, CA

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:79%
Total Enrollment:196
#6Washtenaw County

Washtenaw Community College

Ann Arbor, MI

In-State Tuition:$4,056
Out-of-State Tuition:$5,736
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:28%
Total Enrollment:10,622
Composite Boat Assembler Job Description:
  • Laminate layers of fiberglass on molds to form boat decks and hulls, bodies for golf carts, automobiles, or other products.

Composite Boat Assembler Required Skills and Competencies in Georgia

  • Attention to Detail: You must possess a keen eye for precision, as assembling composite boats involves working with materials and components that require exact measurements and alignment to ensure structural integrity.

  • Mechanical Aptitude: A strong understanding of mechanical systems and tools is essential. You should be comfortable using various hand and power tools and have the ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues as they arise.

  • Knowledge of Materials: Familiarity with different composite materials, such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, and resin, is important. You should be able to select the appropriate materials for specific applications and understand their properties.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to identify and resolve issues during the assembly process is vital. You need to think critically and develop solutions to unforeseen challenges.

  • Physical Stamina and Dexterity: The role often requires extended periods of manual labor, including lifting heavy components and working in constrained spaces. Good hand-eye coordination and physical fitness are necessary to perform tasks effectively.

  • Teamwork and Communication: Working well with others is important, as you will collaborate with a team of professionals. Clear communication skills will help ensure efficient workflow and enhance safety on the job.

  • Understanding of Safety Protocols: You should be well-versed in industry safety standards and best practices to minimize risks while working with potentially hazardous materials and equipment.

  • Time Management: You must be able to manage your time effectively to meet deadlines. Prioritizing tasks and working efficiently under pressure are necessary skills in a production environment.

  • Quality Control: A strong commitment to quality is essential. You should be capable of inspecting your work and that of others to ensure that it meets required standards and specifications.

  • Adaptability: The ability to learn new techniques and adapt to evolving technologies and processes in the boat assembly industry will help you stay relevant and effective in your role.

Job Duties for Composite Boat Assemblers

  • Mix catalysts into resins, and saturate cloth and mats with mixtures, using brushes.

  • Release air bubbles and smooth seams, using rollers.

  • Spray chopped fiberglass, resins, and catalysts onto prepared molds or dies using pneumatic spray guns with chopper attachments.

Technologies and Skills Used by Composite Boat Assemblers

Enterprise resource planning ERP software

    Spreadsheet software

    • Microsoft Excel

    Word processing software

    • Microsoft Word

    Basic Skills

    • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
    • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

    Problem Solving

    • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

    Job Market and Opportunities for Composite Boat Assembler in Georgia

    The job market for Composite Boat Assemblers in Georgia reflects an evolving landscape shaped by both local demand and industry growth. As you consider this career, it’s important to understand the current trends that can influence your opportunities.

    • Demand for Composite Boat Assemblers:

      • The demand for skilled Composite Boat Assemblers remains consistent, driven largely by the burgeoning recreational boating industry.
      • With an increasing interest in boating and marine activities, manufacturers are ramping up production, thereby creating a need for professionals who can assemble and finish composite boats efficiently.

    • Growth Potential:

      • The composite materials industry is experiencing significant growth, leading to enhanced job prospects for assemblers skilled in working with advanced materials such as fiberglass and carbon fiber.
      • As boating technology evolves, there will likely be a rise in the complexity and variety of boat designs, which may require specialized assembly techniques and expertise.

    • Geographical Hotspots:

      • Georgia has several regions that serve as hubs for marine manufacturing and boating activities.
      • Coastal areas, particularly around Savannah and Brunswick, host multiple boat manufacturing companies, which actively seek skilled assemblers.
      • Inland, areas around Atlanta and Lake Lanier also offer opportunities related to boat assembly and repair, due to the popularity of recreational boating in those regions.

    • Industry Associations and Networking:

      • Engaging with local industry associations and participating in trade shows can be beneficial. These platforms often present job fairs and networking opportunities where you can connect with potential employers.
      • Organizations such as the Georgia Marine Trade Association can provide valuable insights into job openings and industry trends.

    • Future Outlook:

      • As sustainability becomes a focal point in boat manufacturing, the shift towards eco-friendly materials may lead to new opportunities in the composite boat sector, offering a dynamic work environment.
      • Continuous advancements in technology, such as automation in manufacturing processes, could also influence job roles and the skillsets required, emphasizing the importance of staying updated with industry developments.

    By keeping an eye on these factors, you can position yourself effectively in the Composite Boat Assembler job market in Georgia.

    Top Related Careers to Composite Boat Assembler 2024

    Composite Technician
    Fiberglass Fabrication Specialist
    Molded Fiberglass Technician
    Fiberglass Reinforcement Technician

    Additional Resources To Help You Become a Composite Boat Assembler in Georgia

    • American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC)
      Explore resources related to standards, certifications, and training relevant to boat building.
      ABYC Website

    • National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA)
      Find industry statistics, networking opportunities, and advocacy resources tailored for marine manufacturers.
      NMMA Website

    • Composite Materials Handbook (MIL-HDBK-17)
      Review the comprehensive guide on composite materials in engineering, including properties and design guidelines.
      MIL-HDBK-17

    • Georgia Department of Economic Development – Georgia’s Boat Industry
      Access information on the boat manufacturing landscape in Georgia, including economic resources and industry partners.
      Georgia Department of Economic Development

    • Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering (SAMPE)
      Engage with professional development opportunities and publications on advanced materials and processing techniques.
      SAMPE Website

    • BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water
      Investigate resources on safety, education, and conservation related to boating.
      BoatU.S. Foundation

    • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
      Review safety standards and regulations applicable to composite materials and boat assembly work environments.
      OSHA Website

    • Trade Schools and Technical Colleges
      Research local programs in Georgia offering courses in marine technology, composite fabrication, and boat assembly. Consider institutions such as:

    • Professional Associations and Networking Groups
      Join organizations such as the Marine Industry Association of Georgia (MIAG) for networking and professional development resources.
      MIAG Website

    Utilize these resources to deepen your understanding of the composite boat assembly field and help advance your career in this industry.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Composite Boat Assembler in Georgia

    • What does a Composite Boat Assembler do?
      As a Composite Boat Assembler, your primary responsibility is to manufacture and assemble boats using composite materials such as fiberglass and carbon fiber. This involves reading and interpreting blueprints, working with molds, applying resins, and ensuring that all components are properly fitted and finished.

    • What skills are required to be a Composite Boat Assembler?
      You should possess strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with your hands. Familiarity with tools and machinery used in boat production is essential, along with problem-solving skills to address assembly issues as they arise.

    • What education is needed for this career?
      While a high school diploma or GED is typically required, additional training can be beneficial. Many employers prefer candidates with technical training or experience related to boat manufacturing or composite materials. Some vocational schools offer specific programs in marine technology.

    • Is prior experience necessary for this position?
      While some entry-level positions may be available, prior experience in manufacturing, carpentry, welding, or a related field can give you an advantage. Many companies offer on-the-job training for new hires.

    • What tools and materials will I use?
      You will work with a variety of tools, including power saws, drills, sanding equipment, and specialized hand tools. You will also handle composite materials, gel coats, resins, and other supplies related to boat construction.

    • What is the job outlook for Composite Boat Assemblers?
      The job outlook for Composite Boat Assemblers is generally favorable, especially in regions with significant maritime industries. As recreational boating continues to be popular and advancements in composite materials occur, demand for skilled assemblers is expected to grow.

    • What is the average salary for this position in Georgia?
      Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer. On average, Composite Boat Assemblers in Georgia can expect to earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, but those with specialized skills or extensive experience may earn more.

    • What are the working conditions like?
      The working conditions vary depending on the employer but typically involve working in a manufacturing facility or a boatyard. You may be exposed to chemicals and loud noises, so following safety protocols and wearing protective gear is important.

    • Can I advance in this career?
      Yes, opportunities for advancement exist, especially if you gain additional skills or qualifications. You may move into supervisory roles or specialize in areas such as quality control, project management, or composite material development.

    • Are there any professional organizations for Composite Boat Assemblers?
      Yes, there are several professional organizations, such as the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and the American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA), which offer resources, networking opportunities, and industry certification programs to support your career development.