Boston Whaler - Gel Coater I

Location: Edgewater, FL | Onsite | No travel required | No direct reports

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States; this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship now or in the future. Relocation assistance is not provided.

About the role

As part of the Boston Whaler team, you will apply gel coat to hulls, decks, and small parts according to boat orders. This role requires stamina, an eagerness to learn, and the ability to follow instructions efficiently to meet deadlines. A successful Gelcoat Specialist demonstrates attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Ensure required parts and raw materials are ready as scheduled.
• Arrange materials in specific orders or patterns based on documentation (numbers, letters, words, or pictures).
• Mix pigments and gelcoat materials to achieve accurate color matching.
• Apply gelcoat using spray guns, brushes, rollers, and other tools with precision.
• Maintain a keen eye for detail to identify and rectify imperfections in gelcoat finishes.
• Operate and maintain gelcoat application equipment, including cleaning spray guns to prevent contamination.
• Inspect gelcoat finishes for defects (e.g., runs, sags, pinholes) and make necessary adjustments or repairs.
• Adhere to safety protocols for handling and disposing of chemicals.
• Collaborate effectively with team members, boat designers, and customers.
• Prioritize tasks, manage time efficiently, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED; or 1+ years of related experience/training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Basic computer knowledge.
• Ability to read, interpret, and follow verbal or written instructions and exchange accurate information.
• Strong reasoning skills, including researching system discrepancies and kitting errors.
• Basic reading comprehension and writing skills.
• Ability to work from verbal and written instructions, use computer terminals, and complete routine paperwork.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work with multiple priorities and people.
• High energy, creative thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Outlook, Excel, Word).
• Familiarity with Materials Resources Planning (MRP) software and systems is a plus.
• Marine experience preferred but not required.
• Familiarity with modern warehousing practices and methods.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience as a gel coater or in a similar role.
• Familiarity with boat manufacturing or repair processes.
• Proactive team player with a self-starter mindset and focus on continuous improvement.

Working Conditions

• Shop floor environment, non-climate controlled; temperature fluctuates with outdoor conditions (e.g., air temperature, humidity, radiant heat).
• Moderate noise levels with occasional spikes.
• Frequent exposure to moving mechanical parts, resins, fiberglass dust, epoxy, composites, and other chemicals.
• Required to wear safety glasses, Tyvek aprons, half-mask respirators, and other personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to walk or stand for extended periods.
• Regularly bend, stoop, kneel, twist, crouch, reach, climb, and lift or move up to 35 pounds.
• Vision requirements: close vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception.

Pay

The anticipated pay range for this position is $19.63–$30.39 per hour. Actual base pay will vary based on job-related knowledge, skills, relevant experience, business needs, and geographic location. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid vacation.
• 401k with up to 4% company match.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution.
• Wellbeing program.
• Product purchase discounts.
• Additional benefits available; details can be found here.