Are you interested in maritime history? Do you have woodworking experience? Do you enjoy small-scale construction projects? Consider contributing your time and skills to an exciting local heritage project!
Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site is building a small team of two to three (2-3) dedicated volunteers to support our Shipwright in current and future heritage boat restoration projects.
What’s Involved
Shipwright Assistant Volunteers will use their woodworking skills to assist our Shipwright with heritage wooden boat restoration, workshop maintenance, program supply preparation, and general support and minor maintenance on the docks and display boats. Volunteers will also share the rich history and tradition of heritage boatbuilding with visitors to Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site. The Shipwright will provide hands-on instruction and supervision of a variety of tasks related to woodworking and wooden boat restoration and maintenance. All tools and equipment will be provided.
Volunteers will work in a fully equipped woodworking shop located in Richmond Boat Builders building. A barrier separates the wood shop from the public spaces within the building; however, visitors are able to observe all activities in the woodshop during public hours.
Your Qualifications
Volunteer Shipwright Assistants must:
- Be over 18 years of age.
- Pass a Police Information Check.
- Possess intermediate-level woodworking experience: specifically, experience completing basic woodworking projects.
- Demonstrate proficiency in safely operating a variety of hand and power tools.
- Complete a Volunteer Orientation and a Safety Orientation, as well as pass a Safety Assessment.
- Be able to take direction and follow instructions.
- Be able to work precisely with attention to detail.
- Be able to lift/carry 40 lbs.
- Have a passion for maritime history / boat building and interest in sharing information on this with the public.
Time Commitment
One volunteer shift per week (2-4 hours), for a twelve (12) month period
How to Apply
Please complete the Volunteer Application Form below and submit it by 4pm on Friday October 24, 2025 to: britannia@richmond.ca with the subject line: Shipwright Assistant Volunteer.
Please note that we will review all applications received. Selections will be made based on our unique program needs and priorities.
