are two of London's most unique and exciting hospitality and experience brands.
Barge East
is an award-winning floating bar & restaurant and riverside garden located in Hackney Wick.
Skuna Boats
, based in Canary Wharf, delivers unforgettable on-water experiences through its one-of-a-kind
Hot Tub
,
BBQ
,
Igloo
, and
Sauna Boats
.
We are seeking a skilled, practical, and proactive
Maintenance & Facilities Manager
to oversee maintenance operations across
both our Hackney Wick and Canary Wharf locations
, ensuring that our vessels, venues, and infrastructure are always safe, functional, and guest-ready.
The Role:
This is a
hands-on, full-time position
based primarily out of our Hackney Wick warehouse, with regular responsibilities at both Barge East and Skuna Boats. You'll be responsible for a wide range of maintenance duties across
boats, catering equipment, and hospitality spaces
--from emergency repairs to preventative maintenance, compliance tasks, and infrastructure upgrades.
You'll be part of a small in-house maintenance team (one full-time and one part-time technician) and report directly to the Directors. You'll also liaise closely with the Operations Team and external contractors when required.
Weekend cover is required twice a month on a rota basis
, and occasional evening or emergency call-outs may occur.
Working Environment:
This is a diverse and outdoor-based role that includes working on and around boats, riverside spaces, gardens, event venues, and commercial kitchens. No two days are the same - and you'll play a vital behind-the-scenes role in helping us keep site running and deliver extraordinary guest experiences.
Key Responsibilities:
Site & Vessel Maintenance
Conduct regular inspections of boats, hospitality spaces, and infrastructure to proactively identify maintenance needs.
Perform scheduled and preventative maintenance on electrical systems, plumbing (including macerators and marine pumps), carpentry, and heating/filtration systems.
Maintain and service hospitality infrastructure, including bars, kitchen areas, and public spaces.
Carry out general repair and maintenance of catering equipment such as ovens, grills, refrigeration, and dishwashers.
Ensure Skuna Boats are maintained to high standards of cleanliness, safety, and mechanical reliability.
Oversee seasonal boat servicing, remedial works, and winterisation procedures.
Repairs & Troubleshooting
Respond promptly to urgent repair requests at both Hackney Wick and Canary Wharf sites.
Diagnose and resolve faults in marine systems, electrics, plumbing, lighting, and catering infrastructure.
Liaise with external engineers, suppliers, and contractors for complex or warranty-related issues.
Minimise downtime of key equipment and ensure smooth operations across both businesses.
Facility & Team Support
Conduct daily site walks to identify issues and submit recommendations for improvements or repairs.
Provide logistical support including keg/stock transport between the warehouse and site.
Tow and transport boats or trailers between locations when needed (towing experience required).
Maintain inventory of tools, parts, and supplies, ensuring workshop and storage areas are tidy and organised.
Health & Safety Compliance
Ensure all work is carried out in compliance with H&S legislation, marine safety standards, and company policies.
Participate in weekly safety checks, fire alarm tests, and internal compliance routines.
Report safety hazards or warranty defects and track resolution through the correct channels.
About You:
We're looking for a practical, hands-on team member who thrives in a varied, fast-paced environment and takes pride in keeping things running smoothly. You'll be confident working independently, solving problems on the spot, and switching between maintenance tasks across very different settings.
You must have:
Proven experience in a facilities, vessel, or site maintenance role (hospitality or marine environments preferred).
Working knowledge of plumbing systems (including macerators), basic electrics, and carpentry.
Experience maintaining or repairing catering equipment (e.g., ovens, grills, refrigeration, dishwashers) would be great.
A full UK driving licence - confident with large vehicles and trailer towing.
Ability to work independently and respond to emergencies under pressure.
Strong organisational and time-management skills, with a proactive mindset.
Comfortable using Gmail
Willingness to work weekends, evenings, and support on-call duties when required.
Desirable (not essential):
City & Guilds or equivalent qualifications in plumbing, electrical, mechanical, or carpentry trades.
Experience working on or maintaining boats, marine systems, or dry dock procedures.
Trailer towing certification or marine operator experience.
Safety certifications: First Aid, Fire Safety, Manual Handling, or COSHH.
NVQ or equivalent in building services or marine engineering.
What We Offer:
Competitive salary of 32,000 - 40,000 (DOE)
Full holiday allowance
Annual discretionary performance bonus
Unique, creative working environment across two innovative brands
Staff meals and discounts at Barge East and Skuna Boats
Ongoing training and development opportunities
The chance to be part of a passionate and growing team
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: 34,000.00-40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Company events
Company pension
Discounted or free food
Employee discount
On-site parking
Application question(s):
Why would you like to work at Barge East & Skuna Boats?
What are the main skills you would bring to the job?
Work Location: In person