Careers

Interested in joining our team?

Having reached our 48 year milestone in the boat building industry, Van Dam Custom Boats combines a commitment to legacy craftsmanship and a passion to be the best boat builder in the world with an unmatched, lifetime guarantee*. We are seeking like-minded individuals willing to help us raise the bar of excellence.

Located in beautiful Boyne City, Michigan on the shores of Lake Charlevoix, you will find four seasons of adventure. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy boating and fishing on

our many inland lakes and rivers as well as on the Great Lakes. Every snow activity imaginable is available at our three area ski resorts while biking, hiking, and camping are right in our back yard.

If you feel you have what it takes to work with the best of the best, we would love to hear from you. Explore the positions below for more detailed information. Tell us a bit about yourself by submitting a cover letter of interest as well as a resume of your experiences and work history.

Benefits

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

A premium health and wellness insurance plan, including medical insurance, dental insurance, and vision insurance is provided at no cost to employees.

401k

A 3% Safe Harbor contribution is provided for each employee, regardless of plan participation.

Paid Time Off

Generous Paid Time Off policy that begins accruing immediately with employment.

Life Insurance & Long-Term Disability

Company provided life insurance policy in the amount of $5000 and long-term disability coverage is available for employee purchase at low group rates.

Open Book Management & Profit Sharing Program

The entire team is provided relevant company financial information leading to direct involvement in driving company efficiencies and successes. We promote a team focused, results driven culture and share the benefits this brings to our financial bottom line.

Continuing Education

We take great pride in being on the leading edge of construction techniques; we look for opportunities to support continuing education for everyone on our team. Consideration will be given to fund any continuing education or training that aligns with/furthers team goals.

Casual Attire

Workwear is supplied and an annual stipend for Van Dam branded clothing is provided.

Competitive Living Wages

Commensurate with experience and willingness to learn and contribute.

After Hours Use of Shop & Company Tools

Personal projects are fulfilling and can also expand skill sets – we are excited to support both

Tool Allowance

An annual stipend toward personal tools is provided so employees are building up their own tool sets.

2

Treat others the way you want to be treated.

Be aware of your words and actions when interacting with customers, co-workers, friends and family.

View all of our
cultural fundamentals

One-Of-A-Kind
Culture

To be the best, there must be a commitment to a common purpose; a team that puts the good of the whole at the forefront of every action. Learn more about the culture behind the craft.

Our Fundamentals

Current Openings

HUMAN RESOURCES GENERALIST—32 to 40 HOURS PER WEEK

THE POSITION—Van Dam is seeking an experienced and skilled team member to serve as our Human Resources Generalist on our campus at Van Dam Custom Boats and Boyne Boat Yard. We are looking for someone who is thirsty for a rewarding and challenging career with our team. We aim to be the best in the industry, and this is a dynamic opportunity for a passionate professional to contribute to our tradition of excellence by fostering a culture where employees are valued, supported, and inspired to grow with us into the future.

This role is anticipated to be 32 hours/week to 40 hours/week, depending on the desire and willingness to help in areas outside of traditional HR responsibilities. This position is on campus, with reasonable flexibility to determine an ongoing schedule that works best for you and Van Dam. You will be responsible for a one-person department of Human Resources, serving a campus of 30+ employees, reporting directly to the Vice President of Van Dam Custom Boats.

As the Human Resources Generalist, you will be administering and managing the functions of human resources including but not limited to: recruitment and onboarding, benefits administration, ensuring proper company policies and practices, developing and promoting ongoing talent development and training, as well as promoting the mission, values, and culture of Van Dam and its strategic vision. This role requires excellent collaboration with other leaders within the organization, with a focus on working as a team, providing service and information for employees, and ensuring an atmosphere that is purposeful with a focus on quality, safety, and efficiency.

TIMELINE: Applications due 4/20/25; Stage 1 screening calls will take place 4/21-4/25/25; Stage 2 on-site interviews will take place 5/8-5/13/25; Desired start date is 6/2/25 or sooner.

COMPENSATION RANGE: $26.50-$36.00/hr

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Performance and Talent Management: Manages compliance with training and certification requirements, including safety, marine industry credentials, and leadership development, while overseeing a Performance Management Program that aligns with company goals, fosters employee growth, and supports leadership in performance evaluations.

Onboarding: Leads the recruitment, interviewing, and hiring process in collaboration with department managers and the Vice President, while overseeing new-hire orientation to provide a seamless onboarding experience with proper training, company knowledge, and employee integration.

Administration and Communications: Oversees HR programs, including compensation, benefits, employee engagement, and compliance with employment laws. Manages the HR Management System. Develops and maintains employee policies, facilitates conflict resolution, and ensures effective onboarding, recognition, and training programs. Supports leadership with employee relations, meetings, and HR best practices to foster a positive and compliant workplace.

Support the Whole Employee: Enhances the employee experience by fostering positive relationships, developing engaging programs for onboarding, training, and career growth, and supporting overall well-being through comprehensive initiatives. Uphold our commitment to creating a workplace where employees thrive, feel valued, and encourage others to join our team.

OUR BENEFIT OFFERINGS:

401(k) Retirement plan with Company Match.
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Life insurance
Vision insurance
Paid Time Off
Paid Holidays
Profit Sharing Bonus
Company Paid Training and Education—Industry Certifications
Employee discount on materials for personal use
$200 Allowance-Annual Crew Gear
$1,500 Employee Referral Program
Opportunities for Advancement
Company Sponsored Events (celebrating milestones and goals, golf outings, etc.)

Join us as our Human Resources Generalist in our quest to build the finest wooden boats in the world.

REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS

2-5 years’ experience in human resources, preferably in manufacturing or fabrication.
One or more of the following degrees/certifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Admin., Industrial Psychology, or related field or similar focus and/or equivalent HR experience with specific experience as a department of one.
- SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification or SPHR certification preferred.
Strong knowledge of employment law, HR information systems, and benefits administration.
Experience developing and implementing HR policies, compensation structures, and performance management systems.
Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to connect with employees at all levels.
A proactive, hands-on approach with a passion for employee engagement/well-being.
Proficiency in HR information systems, Microsoft Office Suite.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
Ability to organize and present thoughts verbally, in print, and in front of a group.
Required Competencies:
- Integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
- Excellent interpersonal and conflict-resolution abilities
- Active listening capabilities
- Approachable with an ability to think and remain calm before acting.
- Respectful of others.
- Shows ambition and eagerness to learn.

MORE ABOUT US

THE CAMPUS—Located in Boyne City, Michigan, our campus is home to both Van Dam Custom Boats and Boyne Boat Yard, two companies united by a passion for craftsmanship, innovation, and excellence in the marine industry.

Van Dam Custom Boats has been building high-performance, wood-composite boats since 1977. Known for our world-class craftsmanship and cutting-edge designs, we blend traditional techniques with modern engineering. Our skilled team—ranging from master craftspeople to apprentices—works in a dynamic, state-of-the-art facility, taking on some of the most exciting and intricate builds in the industry. With a backlog stretching well into 2026, opportunities for growth in technical, project leadership, and build management roles are abundant.

Boyne Boat Yard, our full-service marine yard, extends this expertise into service, repair, and restoration for a wide range of recreational boats, from Van Dam power and sailboats to 55’ sport yachts and cruisers. We are a technician’s yard, dedicated to solving highly technical challenges with precision and care. With access to Van Dam’s world-renowned wood shop, machine shop, paint shop, and design office, there is no project too complex for our team.

Together, our campus fosters a strong culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and a shared commitment to excellence.

HOW TO APPLY

This position is offered as 32-40 hours per week, year-round employment. We offer a comprehensive benefit package and generous compensation for proven experience. And in case you missed them, we live our cultural fundamentals everyday – you can review them HERE. We are on a mission! Come join us! Please submit your resume, letter of interest and references below.

METAL SHOP CRAFTSPERSON—VAN DAM CUSTOM BOATS

WORK FOR ONE OF THE WORLD’S PREMIER WOOD COMPOSITE BOAT BUILDERS

THE POSITION: We’re looking for a year-round, full-time craftsperson to join our Metal Shop. This is a mid-level or higher craftsperson who can work independently and has at least 2 years of experience metal working, including welding and machining.

TIMELINE: Applications due 4/17/25; Stage 1 screening calls will take place 4/18-4/23/25; Stage 2 on-site interviews will take place 4/24-4/29/25; Desired start date is 5/19/25 or sooner.

PAY: Compensation is commensurate with experience and knowledge; pay range for metal shop craftsperson is $21-$31/hr.

BENEFITS:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Employee discount
Life insurance
Paid time off
Paid holidays
Retirement plan
Vision insurance
Profit Sharing Bonus
Open Book Management
Company Paid Training and Education—Industry Certifications
After hours use of shop and company tools
$150 Annual Crew gear allowance
$400 Annual Tool Allowance
$1,500 Employee Referral Program
Opportunities for advancement
Company sponsored events
Reliable schedule with very few weekends

THE COMPANY:

Van Dam Custom Boats, located in Boyne City, Michigan, has been building custom, high-performance wood composite boats since 1977. Known for our exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, we blend traditional techniques with modern engineering principles. Joining our team means becoming part of a legacy of excellence in boatbuilding, where you’ll work on some of the most exciting projects in the industry. Our crew, consisting of highly skilled craftspeople and apprentices, is dedicated to perfection. With an expansive shop equipped with state-of-the-art tools, you’ll thrive in our dynamic and collaborative environment. Whether you’re an experienced boat builder or starting your career, Van Dam offers a unique opportunity to be part of something truly special. We have a backlog stretching into 2026, and growth opportunities abound, with training available in project leadership, build management, and technical skills. Join us in our quest to build the finest wooden boats in the world.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Metal Fabrication: Crafting metal components according to blueprints, drawings, or specifications provided by boat designers or engineers. This could involve cutting, welding, bending, and shaping metal parts to precise measurements.
Quality Control: Ensuring that all fabricated metal components meet quality standards and specifications. This could involve inspecting finished parts for defects, imperfections, or inaccuracies and making adjustments or repairs as needed.
Collaboration: Working closely with other craftspeople, designers, engineers, and managers to coordinate metal fabrication efforts within the larger boat-building process. This may involve communicating project status, sharing ideas, and problem-solving collaboratively.
Safety Compliance: Adhering to safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe working environment for oneself and others. This might include wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, following safe work practices, and participating in safety training programs.
Tool Maintenance: Maintaining and servicing metalworking tools and equipment to ensure they are in good working condition. This could involve routine maintenance tasks, troubleshooting equipment issues, and coordinating repairs or replacements as necessary.
Time Management: Meet timelines set forth by the Project Manager and Metal Shop Foreman. Demonstrate a sense of urgency, and effectively complete tasks/jobs up to hundreds of hours in length while tracking time and updating management as necessary.
Maintain a positive attitude and help create a positive and supportive work environment
Have a sense of ownership and pride in your performance and its impact on team success
Have a thirst to learn and advance knowledge and skills
Have a desire to be involved with the team and participate in the business
Perform with a strong attention to detail, a high level of accuracy, and excellent time management skills with respect for deadlines

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

Certifications: None are required, but applicants with a 6G welding certification are given preference
Career Experience: at least 2 years’ experience metal working
Required Skills & Work Experience:
- Basic Welding (TIG or MIG on stainless and aluminum)
- Manual machining (mill, lathe, drill press, etc.)
- Competent use of precision measuring tools
- Ability to read dimensioned mechanical drawings

Experience working with the following is a plus:

Physical Demands:Ability to climb ladders and stairs, to lift up to 50 pounds consistently, and to get on/off in and around boats of varying sizes; Ability to work outdoors in all conditions-time, year-round employment. Applicants must have at least four years of cold molded boat building and woodworking experience. Any experience with related trades such as metalworking, finishing and mechanical systems are a plus. We offer a comprehensive benefit package and generous compensation for proven experience. And in case you missed them, we live our cultural fundamentals everyday – you can review them HERE. We are on a mission! Come join us! Please submit your letter of interest, portfolio of experiences, and references below.

Experience with metal finishing, including polishing and buffing

Setting up and operating CNC mill

The installation of finished parts is common work for metal shop personnel, so any marine experience is advantageous

Any mechanical experience, including tractors, machinery, automobiles, hydraulics, mechanical systems, etc.

Background Check:Pass a background check

HOW TO APPLY

This position is offered as full-time, year-round employment. We offer a comprehensive benefit package and generous compensation for proven experience. And in case you missed them, we live our cultural fundamentals everyday – you can review them HERE. We are on a mission! Come join us! Please submit your resume, letter of interest, and portfolio of experiences below.

THE COMPANY

The crew at Van Dam consists of some of the most highly skilled wooden boat builders in the industry as well as young, keen people working through the company’s own apprenticeship program. We are a creative, hardworking, and dedicated team on a quest to build the finest wooden boats in the world. With a constant pursuit for perfection and the highest standards, Van Dam is renowned for the beautiful artwork of its boat building.

By joining our team, you will be working on some of the most exciting and finest wooden boat building projects in the world with a small, dedicated team that has built a larger variety of wooden boats than anyone in North America. It is a place where your contribution matters! We have an expansive shop with state-of-the-art equipment and a culture that supports the people and the mission. Our backlog stretches into 2026 with people around the world waiting for their chance to build their dream boat with this team. Growth potential and training in the areas of project leadership, build management and technical knowledge is available, and it is expected that you will want to participate and take an active role in your growth.

THE POSITION

Van Dam Custom Boats, one of the world’s premier wooden boat builders, is seeking a talented, energetic, and motivated addition to the team. As an experienced member of our team, you will be expected to be fluent in all aspects of cold molded construction, from building frames and stringers, to laminating hull skins and exterior planking, to the different types of joinery commonly used in boat building to fairing surfaces without the need to add filler. A thorough understanding of the structural challenges and concerns when working with wood and an attention to detail are expected. Furthermore, the ability to shift from hull construction into interior construction and detailed woodworking for both painted and varnished surfaces will be expected. Experience with electrical systems installation, mechanical systems installation and engine and drivetrain installation is desired. Basic experience with composites is also desired. In this role you will most typically be a part of an entire build project working on everything from the hull construction through interior construction, helping in the metal and paint departments, and doing the final assembly. Day to day, you will report directly to one of the project managers, but you will also have oversight and consistent direct involvement with the president of the company. You will be expected to bring good energy, enthusiasm, and tenacity every day. Active participation in everything from developing solutions for day-to-day challenges to the financials of the business and our monthly meetings is important and expected. Compensation is $25-$35 per hour.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Live our Fundamentals
Consistently perform high quality work in areas including but not limited to:
- Hull and deck structural components
- Laminating skins
- Hull planking for bright finished hullsides and decks
- Fairing surfaces
- Cabinetry
- Fine woodworking
- Occasional restoration work on traditionally built boats and modern boats
Meet timelines set forth by the Project Manager or bring up issues early if not able to meet the timeline
Learn our way first, then bring the benefit of your experience
Execute on tasks with little or no guidance, (after proper instruction)
Be your own quality control and bring issues to the Project Manager when you see them
Bring energy and enthusiasm
Be a contributing member of the team, able to take on multiple aspects of projects
Constantly improve your abilities
Take responsibility for your experience here
Willingness to work regular overtime, (at 1.5x hourly wage)

Requirements and Qualifications:

Minimum 4 years’ experience building wooden boats
Significant experience and comfort with cold molding
ABYC familiarity, (certifications desired)
Electrical and mechanical experience desired

THE LOCATION

Located in beautiful Boyne City, Michigan on the shores of Lake Charlevoix, you will find four seasons of adventure. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy boating and fishing on our many inland lakes and rivers as well as on the Great Lakes. Every snow activity imaginable is available at our three area ski resorts while biking, hiking, and camping are right in our back yard. We have great schools, fabulous restaurants, a vibrant farm market, plus much more for people that value community and nature.

HOW TO APPLY

This position is offered as full-time, year-round employment. Applicants must have at least four years of cold molded boat building and woodworking experience. Any experience with related trades such as metalworking, finishing and mechanical systems are a plus. We offer a comprehensive benefit package and generous compensation for proven experience. And in case you missed them, we live our cultural fundamentals everyday – you can review them HERE. We are on a mission! Come join us! Please submit your resume, letter of interest, and portfolio of experiences below.

Van Dam Custom Boats and Boyne Boat Yard will have up to one student per year who receives a scholarship to attend one year at the Marine Trades Institute (Formerly Great Lakes Boat Building School). The student will receive up to $15,000 toward tuition costs and up to $4,000 in a scholarship award to help with school expenses. The recipient will be chosen by our team and will be expected to work for one of Van Dam’s companies following graduation. If you would like to be considered for this student scholarship, please submit your interest below.

VAN DAM CUSTOM BOATS
WORK FOR ONE OF THE WORLD’S PREMIER WOOD COMPOSITE BOAT BUILDERS

As we celebrate over 48 years in the industry, we invite passionate and dedicated individuals to join our team and help us set new standards of excellence. Are you awesome? So are we, and we would love to hear from you! By 2035, we plan to add 10-15 extraordinary people to our current team of 20+. We are looking for woodshop craftspeople, metalshop craftspeople, paint & varnish craftspeople, technicians, marine designers, marine engineers, and more.

THE COMPANY:
Van Dam Custom Boats, located in Boyne City, Michigan, has been building custom, high-performance wood composite boats since 1977. Known for our exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, we blend traditional techniques with modern engineering principles. Joining our team means becoming part of a legacy of excellence in boatbuilding, where you’ll work on some of the most exciting projects in the industry. Our crew, consisting of highly skilled craftspeople and apprentices, is dedicated to perfection. With an expansive shop equipped with state-of-the-art tools, you’ll thrive in our dynamic and collaborative environment. Whether you’re an experienced boat builder or starting your career, Van Dam offers a unique opportunity to be part of something truly special. We have a backlog stretching into 2026, and growth opportunities abound, with training available in project leadership, build management, and technical skills. Join us in our quest to build the finest wooden boats in the world.

BENEFITS:
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Life insurance
• Generous paid time off policy
• Paid holidays
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance
• Profit Sharing Bonus
• Open Book Management
• Company Paid Training and Education—Industry Certifications
• After-hours use of shop and company tools
• $150 Annual Crew Gear Allowance
• $400 Annual Tool Allowance
• $1,500 Employee Referral Program
• Opportunities for advancement
• Company-sponsored events
• Reliable schedule with very few weekends

HOW TO APPLY:
Van Dam offers full-time, year-round employment with a comprehensive benefits package and generous compensation for proven experience. And in case you missed them, we live our cultural fundamentals every day—you can review them HERE. We are on a mission! Come join us! Please submit your resume, letter of interest, and portfolio of experiences below.

Apply

A remarkable
History

“What started off as a dream to sail around the world in a boat we built ourselves, gradually changed into a vision to ensure the future of craftsmanship. Van Dam Custom Boats was born.” – Steve Van Dam

Our History

A Brand New
Facility

In keeping with the Cultural Fundamentals of the company, importance is placed on the efficient, effective and orderly flow of the work day. Continuous improvement includes our surroundings.

Campus