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The Cirdan Sailing Trust

Marine Engineer

On site

North fambridge, United kingdom

Freelance

16-03-2026

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Skills

Teamwork Training

Job Specifications

Part Time, Flexible Position

Are you a skilled marine engineer looking to make a difference? Join our dedicated team and help us provide life changing voyages to disadvantaged young people.

We are a sail training charity with an aim to change lives at sea. Our fleet of three large sailing boats give young people life-changing experiences, building confidence, teamwork and resilience. To keep our fleet to the highest standards, we’re looking for a part-time Marine Engineer who shares our passion and wants to use their skills for a great cause.

The role

You’ll take responsibility for the maintenance, repair and smooth operation of our fleets’ engines, generators, systems and associated machinery. Working flexibly around the sailing season and schedule, you’ll plan and carry out routine servicing, attend to issues when needed, and advise the Trust’s crew and volunteers on safe and effective operation of the engineering systems.

This is a part-time, flexible position – ideal for someone who wants variety and purpose, and can adapt to the ebb and flow of a sailing season. Each year our vessels undertake a refit period between November and March and it is anticipated that the contracted hours will be weighted towards this period of time although maintenance is required year round.

Key responsibilities

Plan and carry out planned maintenance, servicing and repairs of engines and onboard systems (diesel engines, generators, hydraulics, fuel, electrics, plumbing).
Diagnose and fix faults during the season to minimise downtime.
Maintain service records, compliance with relevant marine engineering standards and safety requirements.
Support and train volunteer crew in daily checks and safe operation.
Work closely with management and skippers to plan maintenance around the sailing programme.

About you

We’re looking for someone with:

Relevant marine engineering qualification(s) or equivalent experience
Strong understanding of diesel marine engines and onboard systems
Hands-on, proactive attitude and the ability to work independently
Good organisational and record-keeping skills
A flexible approach

Experience working with sailing vessels and/or sail training is a bonus, but not essential.

Due to our work with young people an enhanced DBS will be required to be undertaken for the successful candidate. The successful candidate must have the right to live and work in the UK.

Our vessels are located at different places across the UK at different times of the year. The fleet is usually based in Essex (North Fambridge) and Suffolk (Ipswich) during the winter refit periods. Some time away from home will be required throughout the year.

About the Company

The Cirdan Sailing Trust is a nonprofit organization management company based out of Waterside Road, Bradwell-On-Sea,, Southminster, United Kingdom. Know more