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Boilermaker Helper Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Shipyard Helper Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking Shipyard Helpers for work in Norfolk, VA, Chesapeake, VA, and Portsmouth, VA shipyards. Candidates with an Active Secret Security Clearance are ...

Shipyard Mechanic (Boilermaker Support) Location: Norfolk, VA Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp ... Apply today and become part of a team helping keep America's fleet mission-ready. ID:qnkTyx

Shipyard Mechanic

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Shipyard Mechanic (Boilermaker Support) Location: Norfolk, VA Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp ... Apply today and become part of a team helping keep America's fleet mission-ready.

Boilermaker Helper information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$18

$23

How much do boilermaker helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for boilermaker helper in Virginia is $18.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical work conditions for a Boilermaker Helper?

Boilermaker Helpers usually work in industrial settings such as power plants, shipyards, or fabrication shops, where the environment can be loud, hot, and physically demanding. You may be required to work outdoors in various weather conditions, at heights, or in confined spaces while assisting in the assembly, installation, or repair of boilers and pressure vessels. Work often involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy materials, and adhering to strict safety procedures. Boilermaker Helpers typically work as part of a team under the supervision of experienced boilermakers, providing support in tasks like preparing materials, cleaning work areas, and operating tools. This team-based structure fosters hands-on learning and can open opportunities for advancement to higher-skilled boilermaker roles with experience and additional training.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Boilermaker helpers typically do not earn $50 an hour; however, experienced welders and boilermakers can earn $50 or more per hour, especially with specialized skills, certifications, and in high-demand industries such as construction, manufacturing, or power plants. Advanced welding techniques like TIG or MIG welding and working in remote or hazardous environments can also increase earning potential.

Where do Boilermakers make the most money?

Boilermakers tend to earn higher wages in regions with strong industrial, shipbuilding, or energy sectors, such as certain parts of the Midwest and Gulf Coast. Factors like union membership, experience, and working in hazardous environments can also influence pay rates. Overall, locations with high demand for heavy fabrication and construction typically offer higher compensation for boilermakers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Boilermaker Helper position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boilermaker Helper, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and an understanding of safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as OSHA safety certification or site-specific training, is commonly required. Dependability, teamwork, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills in this work environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality assistance to experienced boilermakers on industrial projects.

What is a Boilermaker Helper job?

A Boilermaker Helper assists boilermakers in assembling, installing, and repairing boilers, tanks, and other large metal structures. Their duties include gathering tools, holding parts in place, and cleaning work areas to ensure efficient operations. They may also help cut, weld, and shape metal components under supervision. This position requires physical strength, attention to detail, and a willingness to follow safety procedures. It is often an entry-level role that provides hands-on training for advancement in the field.

How to be a boilermaker with no experience?

Becoming a boilermaker helper with no experience typically involves starting as an entry-level worker, gaining on-the-job training, and learning basic skills such as reading blueprints, using hand and power tools, and understanding safety protocols. Many employers offer apprenticeships or training programs that provide hands-on experience and certifications needed for advancement in the trade.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Boilermaker helpers can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, strong skills, and working in high-paying industries such as construction or manufacturing. These roles often require physical labor, safety training, and sometimes certifications but typically do not require a college degree. High-paying skilled trades like welding, pipefitting, or crane operation can also reach this income level without a degree.
What are the most commonly searched types of Boilermaker jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Boilermaker jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Boilermaker Helper jobs in Virginia? For Boilermaker Helper jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Boilermaker Helper jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Boilermaker Helper jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Boilermaker Helper jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Boilermaker Helper job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Boilermaker Helper jobs in VA? For Boilermaker Helper jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Boilermaker Helper job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 21% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,222 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
SY Helper

Full-time

Posted 2 hours ago


Job description

Shipyard Helper

Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking Shipyard Helpers for work in Norfolk, VA, Chesapeake, VA, and Portsmouth, VA shipyards.

Candidates with an Active Secret Security Clearance are strongly encouraged to apply. Active security clearances are a significant advantage for current and upcoming shipyard opportunities.

Job Duties
  • Assist skilled trades personnel including Shipfitters, Welders, Riggers, Electricians, Painters, Pipefitters, Machinists, and Mechanics with daily shipyard operations.
  • Gather, transport, and organize tools, materials, and equipment at job sites.
  • Clean and prepare work areas before, during, and after work is performed.
  • Remove debris, scrap material, and excess equipment from vessels, dry docks, and work sites.
  • Assist with material handling, loading, unloading, and staging of equipment and supplies.
  • Operate basic hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment under supervision.
  • Support confined space, tank, and compartment entry preparations as directed.
  • Assist with fire watch, hole watch, and safety-related duties when assigned.
  • Move materials through vessels, dry docks, shops, and shipyard facilities.
  • Follow established shipyard safety procedures, OSHA regulations, and customer requirements.
  • Work aboard ships, in dry docks, industrial facilities, confined spaces, elevated areas, and outdoor environments.
  • Perform general labor and support duties as assigned.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous shipyard, industrial, construction, manufacturing, warehouse, or general labor experience preferred.
  • Ability to work safely in physically demanding environments.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment throughout the workday.
  • Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and industrial equipment.
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Reliable transportation and dependable attendance.
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, and varying shifts as required.
  • Knowledge of OSHA safety practices and industrial work environments.
  • Candidates who currently hold an active Security Clearance or have previous experience working in secure shipyard, military, government, or defense-contractor environments are highly preferred.
  • TWIC card, DBIDS eligibility, OSHA 10, OSHA 30, or related certifications are a plus.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
  • Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, kneel, crouch, bend, and stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to work in confined spaces, aboard vessels, and in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, safety glasses, respirators, gloves, and hearing protection.

Tidewater Staffing is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes qualified candidates seeking opportunities within the Hampton Roads maritime and industrial workforce.


    Tidewater Staffing logo

    About Tidewater Staffing

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.” Our deep industry experience and established local presence allow us to maintain a consistent, updated, and expansive network of skilled candidates, and our proprietary digital onboarding process. When you partner with Tidewater Staffing, you get employees who are trained, screened, supplied, and access to our proprietary digital onboarding process.

    Industry

    Recruiting and staffing services

    Company size

    51 - 200 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Virginia Beach, VA, US

    Year founded

    1992