We’re looking for a Crew Member to join the team at Gondola. As part of the crew, you’ll welcome visitors, support daily operations and complete full training that will allow you to operate the steam engine and eventually skipper the boat.

Steam Yacht Gondola is a rebuilt Victorian steam-powered yacht that offers visitors the chance to experience the elegance of historic lake travel. Guests can sit in opulent saloons or enjoy open-air decks as the yacht glides across Coniston Water. They can also watch the steam engine in action through the viewing windows and talk to the crew about how it works while enjoying views of the Coniston Fells and listening to commentary that reveals the area’s history and famous connections.
Gondola is part of the Lakes and Eden Property Group, which includes major National Trust heritage assets across the region. You will work closely with support teams from this wider portfolio.
This role is based on annualised hours, where the amount of hours you work each month may vary, however your salary will be paid in 12 equal instalments over the year. You’ll work 1456 hours per year.

Gondola sails from April to October and during this period you’ll mainly work on the boat. The crew rotates through three core roles each week. As pursuer, you’ll welcome visitors, answer questions and help create an enjoyable experience. As steam engineer, you’ll safely manage the operation of the boiler and engine while engaging with guests who are often very interested in this part of the yacht. Once trained and successful in your MCA Boatmasters Licence, you’ll take on the role of skipper, responsible for the safety of passengers, crew and lake users while also staying on schedule.

You’ll work outdoors in all weather conditions on the lake. From November to March Gondola undergoes winter maintenance and you’ll join the team carrying out a wide range of tasks such as cleaning, painting, woodwork and maintenance of the boiler and engine. Support and training will be provided.

You’ll be part of a small crew helping to ensure visitors have an enjoyable and safe experience. Each day begins with preparing the yacht for sailing. This includes loading firewood and ensuring every part of the boat is ready to welcome visitors. Tasks may include hoovering, polishing and cleaning the toilet.
Throughout the day, you’ll welcome visitors on board, check tickets and take payments. You’ll promote National Trust memberships and fundraising items to support conservation work. During cruises, you’ll give commentary that helps visitors understand and appreciate their journey.
Once trained as a steam engineer, you’ll manage the boiler, maintain water levels, monitor steam pressure and oil the moving parts of the engine. After achieving your MCA Boatmaster qualification, you’ll take responsibility for operating the vessel and following safety procedures. You’ll also lead in an emergency.
At the end of each trip, you’ll make sure all visitors leave safely and prepare the boat for the next journey.

Applications from redeployees are assessed against the minimum criteria for the role. In your application, please provide details of how you meet the minimum criteria below:

• willing to gain marine, steam or maintenance skills with training provided by us
• confident in communicating with all kinds of people
• confident working near deep water and working with the heat & pressure of a boiler
• A team-player with the ability to take charge when required
• ability to assist passengers in case of emergency, to perform manual work such as loading fuel

Criteria for all other applicants:

• an enthusiasm for understanding and sharing the story of Gondola, her people and her lake
• to be confident in communicating with all kinds of people
• to be confident working near deep water and working with the heat and pressure of a boiler
• to be a team player with the ability to take charge when required
• the ability to assist passengers in case of emergency, to perform manual work such as loading fuel
• a willingness to gain marine, steam or maintenance skills with training provided by us

The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Rental deposit loan scheme

• Season ticket loan

• EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)

• Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts

• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Employee assistance programme

• Free parking at most Trust places

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.