Build remarkable vessels with Nichols Brothers Boat Builders in Freeland, WA—crafting tugs, ferries, fireboats, fishing vessels, barges, and dinner boats since 1964. We pair craftsmanship with modern marine technology to deliver reliable, purpose-built ships.
- Be part of a team known for innovative outfitting and precision interior builds.
- Work across diverse projects and vessel types—no two days are alike.
- Grow your skill set with hands-on learning and collaborative problem solving.
- Fabricate, form, and fit wood and sheet metal components to detailed blueprints for both new construction and refits.
- Install, remove, and repair HVAC systems; construct, adjust, and assemble ducts using flanges, bolts, lap joints, and rivets.
- Read and interpret engineering drawings (standard and metric), sketches, manuals, and specifications to plan sequences and setups.
- Measure, mark, and scribe layouts on metals, plastics, and laminates onboard vessels.
- Operate hand/power tools—grinders, drills, rivet guns, calipers, scribes, combination squares—plus forming equipment (shears, band saws, rollers, presses, brakes).
- Perform tack welds and minor welding using MIG and Arc processes.
- Contribute across the panel line, fabrication shop, modular jigs, and final assembly areas.
- Uphold safety and housekeeping standards; use scissor and boom lifts appropriately.
- Communicate clearly and operate as an effective teammate; adapt and solve build challenges.
- High school diploma or equivalent (vocational background a plus).
- Basic math and foundational blueprint reading.
- Proficiency with basic hand and power tools.
- 3+ years as a carpenter, joiner, or outfitter (Journeyman-level applicants).
- Shipbuilding/marine experience and strong safety orientation.
- Comfort around heavy machinery and willingness to work overtime.
- Physical ability: lift/carry up to 50 lbs; work at heights to 60 ft; enter confined spaces with a respirator; operate in tight spaces at awkward angles.
- Good verbal communication; strong teamwork.
- Entry-level candidates: willingness to learn and attend training.
- Construction or shipyard experience (especially valued for entry-level applicants).
- Woodworking; framing; finish and rough carpentry; millwork; joinery; cabinet install; marine carpentry
- Outfitting; ship building; ship repair
- Layout and fit-up; field measurements; precision measurement and inspection
- Blueprint reading; shop math; excellent communication
- Equipment troubleshooting; use of visual inspection aids
- Tape measure accuracy
- Forklift licensed
- Hand tool proficiency
From pilot house interiors to full HVAC installations, your craft shapes vessels that serve communities and industries across the water.
Nichols Brothers Boat Builders is a drug free workplace, and all applicants are subject to a pre-employment drug screen and a background check.
Equal Employment Opportunity: All employment decisions at Nichols Brothers Boat Builders are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex, age, disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, medical history, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Nichols Brothers Boat Builders will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics
