Recruitment: would you like to join our team as a general preparateur?
Team Francesca Clapcich Powered by 11th Hour Racing
General preparateur
Location: Lorient, France
Start Date: January 2026
Monthly net salary range: €1,700-€1,900
Contract Type: Full-time / one-year fixed-term contract
Development Opportunity: a new candidate will be recruited each year with the same training-oriented objectives
Closing date: November 14, 2025
Overview:
As part of the campaign for the 2028 Vendée Globe, Team Francesca Clapcich Powered by 11th Hour Racing is recruiting a general preparateur for a one-year fixed-term position designed as a development opportunity. The role is open to anyone with less than a year of experience in the sailing industry.
This position is entry-level, designed to give hands-on learning experiences, allowing the selected candidate to gain broad exposure in boat preparation and boatbuild core technical skills, and to potentially progress toward a specialization (e.g., composites, rigging, electronics etc).
You’ll work closely with both the shore and sailing teams, under the supervision of the Technical Director.
We are committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We believe that a culture of inclusion, equity, and belonging strengthens our work and our impact. If you share our values and are excited by our mission, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every listed requirement.
About Team Francesca Clapcich Powered by 11th Hour Racing
Francesca Clapcich is one of the world‘s most versatile professional sailors - a two-time Olympian, round-the-world sailor, World Champion, and Women‘s America‘s Cup sailor.
She launched Team Francesca Clapcich Powered by 11th Hour Racing in January 2025 to take on the 2028 Vendée Globe – racing solo, non-stop around the world race. From 2025-2029, the team will compete in some of the most challenging single- and double- handed races in the sport, combining on-water performance with social purpose.
Team Francesca Clapcich seeks solutions for climate justice and to inspire change and foster belonging in a community where diversity is celebrated and equality is the norm, both on and off the water.
Responsibilities for this role:
Boat preparation:
Assist with technical tasks during refit periods, training sessions, and races
Help manage onboard equipment and tools
Support pre-departure and post-arrival operations
Maintain inventories and technical areas
On-water support (depending on profile and opportunities):
Take part in on-water technical tests
Participate in boat deliveries
Race support:
Be present at race starts and finishes
Contribute to the technical troubleshooting team when needed
Team life and communications:
Participate in public relations, sponsor or media events organized by the team
Collaborate with the technical and sailing crews
Skills & experience required:
Strong motivation to work in technical offshore racing
Practical, hands-on skills (DIY, mechanical, rigging, etc.)
Ability to read technical diagrams (a plus)
Well-organized and methodical
Speaks English (does not need to be fluent)
Driving licence mandatory, truck (permis E) licence and motor boat licence are a plus
Sailing experience is a bonus but not essential
Personal qualities:
Eagerness to learn and grow
Team player with good interpersonal skills
Proactive, resourceful, and adaptable
Hands-on and solution-oriented
Available to travel as needed
We are committed to creating a flexible and inclusive working environment that supports a wide range of personal and professional needs. We offer adaptable working hours, remote collaboration options, and co-designed workflows to ensure everyone can contribute meaningfully and sustainably. We welcome open conversations about what you need to thrive.