Maintenance Carpenter

Please carefully read the role description below to verify that you meet the requirements. The apply button can be found at the bottom of this page.
Driven to provide hope & healing.
Mercy Ships is an international charity that brings hope and healing to the world’s forgotten poor through state-of-the-art hospital ships. Since 1978, our volunteer crew—made up of medical professionals and skilled workers from over 60 nations—has delivered free surgeries and medical care to over 2.8 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa, transforming lives one patient and one port at a time. Join our global team of over 3,000 volunteers and help us change lives daily.
About this role
The Maintenance Carpenter is responsible for assisting in general repair and renovation of ship spaces and equipment. Working out of a dedicated workshop, the Maintenance Carpenter responds to work requests as well as tasks assigned by the Chief Officer, primarily working on safety issues, and occasionally working on special projects bringing a lot of job satisfaction!
Requirements
Each role with Mercy Ships calls for a unique blend of experience, skills, and qualifications. The info below outlines what’s needed to serve effectively in this position—to meet operational standards and to help you thrive as part of the team.
What You Will Contribute
Quality, Health, Safety & Environment (QHSE)
- Knowledge of the Company Safety Management System as it applies to responsibilities involved in this position
- Follow all standing, general, and night orders given by the Master, as well as all international maritime regulations
- Emergency duties as assigned according to the posted Muster Lists
Technical
- General repairs of vessel’s accommodation including carpentry, flooring, and furnishings work
- Maintain the Carpentry shop and associated equipment
- Assist in the mooring of the ship as requested
Mission Support
- Share in the support and furtherance of the Christian community through lifestyle and exhortation
- Serve the crew at large by staying visible and interactive
What You Will Need
STCW Certifications
- Certificate of Proficiency in accordance with STCW VI/1 Basic Training
- Certificate of Proficiency in accordance with STCW VI/6-1 Security Awareness
- Certificate of Examination in accordance with STCW I/9 Medical Fitness and Minimum In-Service Eyesight
Mission and Community
- Supportive of Mercy Ships mission and vision and committed to its core values
- Able to live in and contribute to community life, requiring stable and healthy interpersonal skills
Administrative
- Competent in Windows, Microsoft Office Programs, and general file/folder management tasks
- Ability to communicate proficiently in English in both written and verbal forms
- Successful completion of Mercy Ships On Boarding Program for commitments longer than 1 year
- Experience as a finish carpenter, general carpenter, or handyman work
- Experience in the use of various carpentry/power tools
About the team
You’ll be part of the Maritime Team, a professional crew ensuring the safe operation and navigation of the ship, maintaining maritime standards, training others, and supporting the vessel’s readiness to deliver hope and healing wherever it serves.
Frequently asked questions.
We are so excited that you are interested in learning more about serving with us. These are the most common questions we receive for this department.
SCAM ALERT: Please be aware of recruitment scams. Mercy Ships will never charge any fees as a part of the recruitment process. For more info click here.
Click here for a list of medical requirements to serve, including required immunizations.
The experience of a lifetime is calling.
More than 1,200 volunteers from over 60 nations serve with Mercy Ships each year.
At Mercy Ships, we are proud to be recognized around the world for the life-changing surgeries and training we deliver. We could not achieve this without our dedicated community of talented volunteers.
Imagine finishing your shift and stepping onto deck as the sun sets—knowing that today you’ve helped transform the lives of those who need it most. Apply now to start a journey that will reshape the lives of those you serve—and your own.
Faith-Led Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
Mercy Ships is a faith-based organization welcoming volunteers from diverse backgrounds and experiences who are committed to our mission and values. All qualified applicants will receive consideration.
Beware of Imposters: Confirm All Volunteer Communications
Volunteer opportunities and invitations to serve will always come directly from Mercy Ships’ official volunteer engagement teams. Never provide personal information to anyone without confirming their connection to Mercy Ships.