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Apprentice Shipyard Painter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Preservation Sandblaster

National City, CA · On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

SOUTH BAY SANDBLASTING & TANK CLEANING, INC. located in San Diego, CA shipyard related ... Remove dirt, paint, grease, and other built-up material from surfaces * Set up and operate a blast ...

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Apprentice Shipyard Painter information

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$12

$18

$24

How much do apprentice shipyard painter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice shipyard painter in the United States is $18.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Apprentice Shipyard Painter vs Shipyard Painter?

AspectApprentice Shipyard PainterShipyard Painter
CredentialsBasic high school diploma, on-the-job trainingExperience in painting, certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksFull responsibility for painting projects in shipyards
Job RoleAssists and learns painting techniques under supervisionPerforms painting, surface preparation, and finishing tasks independently

The main difference is that an Apprentice Shipyard Painter is in training and works under supervision, focusing on learning skills, while a Shipyard Painter is experienced and handles painting projects independently. Apprentices develop their skills before advancing to full painter roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Shipyard Painter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Shipyard Painter, you need a basic understanding of surface preparation, painting techniques, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as spray guns, sandblasters, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential, and OSHA safety certification is often required. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work well in teams are valuable soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure high-quality work, workplace safety, and effective collaboration in demanding shipyard environments.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice shipyard painters, and how can they be overcome?

Apprentice shipyard painters often encounter challenges such as working in confined or elevated spaces, managing exposure to hazardous materials, and adapting to varying weather conditions. To overcome these, it's important to strictly follow safety protocols, use personal protective equipment, and communicate proactively with more experienced team members. Building strong teamwork skills and seeking mentorship can also help apprentices quickly adapt to the unique demands of shipyard environments and grow their technical abilities.

What does an Apprentice Shipyard Painter do?

An Apprentice Shipyard Painter assists experienced painters in preparing and painting ships and ship components. Their tasks typically include surface preparation, such as sanding and cleaning, applying primers and paints using brushes, rollers, or spray equipment, and learning about safety procedures and proper handling of painting materials. Apprentices gain hands-on experience and technical knowledge under supervision, progressing toward becoming fully qualified shipyard painters.
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Nuclear Construction Shielding Mechanic

Nuclear Construction Shielding Mechanic

General Dynamics Electric Boat

North Kingstown, RI • On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


General Dynamics Electric Boat rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Overview
Do you have construction, carpentry, or painting experience?
Are you looking for a new opportunity to advance your career?
Apply today! Become part of the team at Electric Boat, where we take pride in building the world's most advanced submarines.
Nuclear Construction Shielding Mechanics are responsible for cutting, fitting, and installing lead and plastic shielding to support submarine construction. This work requires a skilled crafts-person with an aptitude to learn and the ability to visualize a job from start to finish. Mechanics will receive job-specific training and will receive qualifications to perform each process after a demonstration of ability.
Work includes:
  • Stud shooting and sound dampening installation
  • Cutting and fitting shielding using carpentry tools such as; band-saws, table saws, planers, jointers, routers, paint brush, rollers, spray paint equipment and various pneumatic tools
  • Use of handheld tools including chipping hammers, grinders, nail guns and burr tools

Applicants must be able to read and interpret plans and shipyard procedures.
Some of the Benefits we provide to you include:
  • Paid Training
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401(k) with up to 6% employer match
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • Shift Premium
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Commuter/Van Services (RIPTA)
  • Tuition Reimbursement Programs
  • Safety Boot Reimbursement Program
  • Growth Opportunities

Location:
This position is located at the Quonset Point facility in North Kingstown, RI.
Qualifications
Required:
  • High school diploma or equivalent OR 2 plus years of related technical experience
  • Carpentry experience or training and/or construction experience (or relevant work experience)
  • Basic mathematical skills
  • Able to work in confined spaces, heights and extreme temperature conditions as required
  • Available to work all shifts
  • Ability to qualify for Lead and Poly installation
  • Individuals are required to possess their own basic hand tools

Preferred:
  • Preference given for Vocational, Technical and Community Colleges or Apprentice programs
  • Ability to interpret shipyard procedures, drawings, technical manuals, test documents and diagrams
  • Experience in finished carpentry, auto body, painting and coatings
  • Current shielding qualifications
  • Experience working in the construction industry or a manufacturing environment
  • Military/Navy experience

Skills
  • Applicant will be required to work in a collaborative and team environment and meet organizational goals. Individuals are required to possess their own basic hand tools
  • Must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills

Physical Qualifications
Climbing, Crawling, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Medium Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting
Environmental Attributes
Acids or Alkalis, Cold, Dry, Dusty, Fumes, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily, Wet

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