What are the responsibilities and job description for the Silicone Specialist position at Yellowfin Yachts LLC?
Silicone Specialist – Rigging
Company Overview
Yellowfin Yachts is a leading manufacturer of premium offshore fishing boats, recognized for exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, and performance. If you're looking to grow your career with a company that values excellence and integrity, we'd love to have you join our team.
Position Summary
The Boat Rigger — Silicone Specialist is a key member of the Rigging department. This position is responsible for the precise application of marine-grade silicone sealants and bedding compounds across all vessel assemblies. This role requires a steady hand, an eye for detail, and a deep understanding of how proper sealing directly impacts the watertight integrity, finished appearance, and long-term durability of every boat we build. You will work alongside riggers, assemblers, and quality control technicians to ensure every joint, fitting, and penetration meets Yellowfin's exacting standards before a vessel leaves the production floor.
Key Responsibilities
Silicone Application & Sealing
- Apply marine-grade silicone sealants, polyurethane adhesives, and bedding compounds to all hull, deck, and console penetrations including hardware, through-hulls, hatches, windshields, and trim pieces
- Ensure proper surface preparation prior to silicone application including cleaning, degreasing, and masking to achieve clean, professional results
- Apply silicone in a consistent, controlled bead that is aesthetically clean and structurally sound
- Tool and finish silicone joints to the standard required by Yellowfin's quality specifications
- Remove excess sealant cleanly without damage to surrounding gelcoat, hardware, or finished surfaces
Hardware Bedding & Installation Support
- Bed and seal cleats, rod holders, electronics mounts, T-tops, leaning posts, and other deck hardware using proper marine compounds
- Coordinate with riggers on the sequencing of hardware installation to ensure sealant is applied at the correct stage of assembly
- Follow torque specifications and manufacturer guidelines for hardware fastening over bedded surfaces
Quality & Inspection
- Inspect all completed silicone work for voids, gaps, air pockets, or cosmetic defects prior to handoff to the next production stage
- Participate in water testing and leak checks, addressing any identified issues promptly
- Maintain awareness of Yellowfin's quality standards and flag any non-conformances to the Rigging Supervisor
Production Floor Standards
- Keep silicone guns, tools, and work areas clean and organized at all times
- Track sealant inventory and communicate replenishment needs to the supervisor before materials run short
- Follow all safety protocols including proper handling and disposal of chemical compounds, use of PPE, and MSDS compliance
- Support other rigging tasks as needed to meet daily and weekly production targets
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of 1-year hands-on experience in applying silicone, caulk, or marine sealants in a boat building, marine, construction, or manufacturing environment
- Demonstrated ability to produce clean, finished silicone beads in tight or visible areas
- Working knowledge of surface preparation techniques and the importance of adhesion in marine applications
- Ability to read and follow production work orders, diagrams, and specifications
- Strong attention to detail and pride in the quality of finished work
- Ability to work in a physically demanding environment — standing, kneeling, bending, and working in confined spaces for extended periods
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in fiberglass boat manufacturing or marine rigging
- Familiarity with 3M 4200, 4000UV, 5200, Sikaflex, or equivalent marine-grade sealant products
- Experience bedding deck hardware on center console or offshore fishing vessels
- Knowledge of through-hull installations, deck penetrations, and watertight integrity standards
Equal Opportunity Employer
Yellowfin Yachts is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are respected and valued. We provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
E-Verify Notice
This employer participates in E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires supporting our boat manufacturing operations. Verification is conducted through federal agencies, and employment is contingent upon successful completion of this process and maintaining valid authorization to work in the United States.