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Assistant Ship Fitter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fairlead

Shipfitter 2/Class - (27)

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

Repairs, modifies, installs, and dismantles various shipboard hulls, bulkheads, or decks. Designs ... Responsibilities: * Reports directly to the Assistant Foreman/Supervisor/Production Lead.

Fairlead Integrated

Shipfitter 2/Class

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$23.42 - $35.12/hr

Repairs, modifies, installs, and dismantles various shipboard hulls, bulkheads, or decks. Designs ... Responsibilities: * Reports directly to the Assistant Foreman/Supervisor/Production Lead.

PierTech Systems

Be Seen First

Materials Handler/Welding Fitter

Saint Charles, MO · On-site

$23/hr

Assist the team of welders and production equipment operators by moving materials into and out of ... Fitting of parts according to blueprints and specifications. Assisting with production in other ...

Aerotek

Cleared Shipfitter

Silverdale, WA · On-site

$38/hr

Prepare materials for welders and assist in structural assembly to support efficient completion of ... ship specifications. * Proficiency in layout, cutting, fitting, and basic welding or tacking of ...

New

BAE Systems

Shipfitter (Trade School)

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

... fitting, fabricating, assembly and alignment of a ship's structure Key Responsibilities ... In some cases, as specified, the third class mechanic is expected to assist, rather than completing ...

BAE Systems

Shipfitter (Trade School)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

... fitting, fabricating, assembly and alignment of a ship's structure Key Responsibilities ... In some cases, as specified, the third class mechanic is expected to assist, rather than completing ...

BAE Systems

Shipfitter - Hiring Now

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

... fitting, fabricating, assembly and alignment of a ship's structure Key Responsibilities ... In some cases, as specified, the third class mechanic is expected to assist, rather than completing ...

BAE Systems

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

... fitting, fabricating, assembly and alignment of a ship's structure Key Responsibilities ... In some cases, as specified, the third class mechanic is expected to assist, rather than completing ...

BAE Systems

Shipfitter (Trade School)

Carrollton, VA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

... fitting, fabricating, assembly and alignment of a ship's structure Key Responsibilities ... In some cases, as specified, the third class mechanic is expected to assist, rather than completing ...

BAE Systems

Shipfitter (Trade School)

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

... fitting, fabricating, assembly and alignment of a ship's structure Key Responsibilities ... In some cases, as specified, the third class mechanic is expected to assist, rather than completing ...

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Assistant Ship Fitter information

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$37

How much do assistant ship fitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant ship fitter in the United States is $25.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an assistant ship fitter typically collaborate with other trades during a shipbuilding project?

Assistant Ship Fitters regularly work alongside welders, pipefitters, and engineers to ensure that metal components are accurately positioned and securely installed on ships. Collaboration often involves interpreting blueprints together, coordinating the sequence of tasks, and assisting with adjustments as designs evolve. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as projects require tight schedules and precision to meet safety and quality standards. This role offers a dynamic environment where learning from experienced tradespeople is common, helping assistants build valuable skills for career advancement in shipbuilding.

What is the difference between Assistant Ship Fitter vs Ship Fitter?

AspectAssistant Ship FitterShip Fitter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, apprenticeship or technical training
Work EnvironmentAssists in shipbuilding, repair, and maintenancePerforms detailed fitting, welding, and assembly of ship components
Employer & IndustryShipyards, marine constructionShipyards, marine repair facilities

The main difference between an Assistant Ship Fitter and a Ship Fitter lies in experience and responsibilities. An Assistant Ship Fitter supports and assists with fitting tasks, often under supervision, while a Ship Fitter performs more complex fitting, welding, and assembly work independently. Both roles require similar credentials and are essential in shipbuilding and repair industries.

What is an assistant ship fitter?

Assistant Ship Fitters are skilled workers who help in the construction, maintenance, and repair of ships. They assist experienced ship fitters in measuring, cutting, shaping, and assembling metal parts of a ship’s structure. Their tasks may include handling tools, reading blueprints, and ensuring all components are securely installed. Assistant Ship Fitters often work in shipyards or docks, collaborating with welders, fabricators, and other tradespeople. This role requires a strong attention to detail, physical stamina, and knowledge of safety procedures.

How do I get into assistant ship fitting?

To become an assistant ship fitter, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should pursue relevant technical training or apprenticeships in ship fitting or welding. Gaining experience with tools, reading blueprints, and understanding safety procedures are important, and some employers may require certifications such as OSHA safety training. On-the-job training is common, and physical fitness is often necessary due to the manual nature of the work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant ship fitter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Ship Fitter, you need basic knowledge of metalworking, blueprint reading, and hand and power tool operation, typically supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with welding equipment, cutting torches, and shipyard safety protocols is often essential. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring precision, safety, and efficiency in ship construction and repair projects.
What cities are hiring for Assistant Ship Fitter jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Ship Fitter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ship Fitter jobs? The most popular types of Ship Fitter jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Ship Fitter jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Ship Fitter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Ship Fitter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Ship Fitter jobs are:
Assistant Ship Fitter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Ship Fitter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,672 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Shipfitter 1/Class - (26)-Portsmouth,Virginia

Fairlead

Smithfield, VA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Responsibilities:
  • Repairs, modifies, installs, and dismantles various shipboard hulls, bulkheads, or decks
  • Designs and fabricates fixtures and jigs
  • Reports directly to the Assistant Foreman/Supervisor/Production Lead
  • Understands and follows PPE Policy
  • Lays out material utilizing drawings and blueprints prior to performing cutting/fitting operations
  • Maintains good housekeeping practices, turning off machines when not in use, disposing of waste properly, sweeping the area, etc.
  • Ensures all tools listed on the "Required Tools List" are available for use within 2 weeks of employment
  • Ensures that all requirements of the Quality Assurance Manual are followed when invoked by QA Workbook, Work Package (WP), Work Instructions (WI) and/or other guidance given by management
  • Identifies and notifies the Supervisor of unsatisfactory conditions during the production operation
  • Reads and understands complex terminology, blueprints, drawings, and schematics to plan installation
  • Fabricates and installs fixtures, jigs, supports, and targets to close tolerances ensuring finish requirements of the drawings are achieved
  • Determines fit-up requirements for a wide range of structural components in accordance with applicable technical drawings, manuals, and instructions
  • Determines size and material requirements
  • Ensures control and assumes responsibility for Contractor (CFM) and Government (GFM) furnished materials
  • Ability to use layout tools such as tool scales, squares, combination squares, trammel points
  • Understands fitting of structural components using dogs, wedges, strong-backs, etc.
  • Strict adherence to safety, quality standards, good housekeeping habits, high level of critical thinking/reading
  • Possesses basic computer skills
  • Travel and overtime are required
  • Will provide mentoring to junior craftsman
  • Work outside specific trade skill as required

Qualifications:
  • Work Experience: Minimum 5+ years of Shipfitter experience, or graduation from accredited
  • Apprenticeship Program or Journeyman Certificate accepted in lieu of work experience
  • Understands and performs the setup, and operation of various portable tools and hand tools used in the trade including plasma cutting machines and oxy/fuel
  • Has advanced knowledge of the following: shipboard plate (hull, deck, bulkhead) systems
  • (repair/installation practices, procedures, alignments, and material requirements), blueprint reading and interpretation, MILSPEC requirements
  • Must be able to fit structural components to tolerance requirements
  • Must have Tack and Fillet Weld qualifications (FCAW/SMAW)
  • Must have the ability to gain access to military bases and various government facilities
  • Understands the proper use of fitting gear and safe techniques
  • Demonstrates a safe and proficient fitting style
  • Is punctual, reliable and willing to work early or late however the schedule determines
  • Is willing to work at various locations
  • Can lead the crew in the day-to-day operations
  • Can act as the supervisor when called upon
  • Can solve problems and make decisions that keep the crew safe and proficient
  • Has a teachable spirit and is eager to learn new challenges
  • Has a clear understanding of TDP's and technical data
  • Communicates in a professional manner befitting the Fairlead way
  • Has the ability to operate forklifts and manlifts
  • Has fall protection training
  • Has a minimum of 5 years' experience as a fitter

ADA Notifications:
Involves heavy lifting, frequent stooping, bending, crawling, reaching and possible working assignments in overhead structures, confined spaces or beneath machinery either indoors or outdoors in noisy conditions.

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