1

Classification Society Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Welder

Philadelphia, PA ยท On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Knowledge and proficiency of heavy shipyard construction welding in all positions using approved WPS (Welding Procedure Specification) determined by Hanwha Philly Shipyard and classification society

Welder

Philadelphia, PA ยท On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

Welder shall maintain their individual NDT rejection set forth by Hanwha Philly Shipyard and classification society * Perform other related duties as required and assigned COMPETENCIES * Work ...

Welder

Philadelphia, PA ยท On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Welder shall maintain their individual NDT rejection set forth by Hanwha Philly Shipyard and classification society * Perform other related duties as required and assigned Competencies: * Work ...

Monitor the comments from Client and Classification Society. Monitor all the piping related interface points. Monitor all the hotwork, tank's coating and drydocking related activities where ...

Monitor the comments from Client and Classification Society. Monitor all the piping related interface points. Monitor all the hotwork, tank's coating and drydocking related activities where ...

Developed knowledge and understanding of Classification Society Rules and Flag State Regulations. * Experienced with electrical and control systems on ships including generators, power distribution ...

Minimum 8 years of experience in hull structure design, shipbuilding, or classification society plan approval. * In-depth knowledge of IMO conventions, SOLAS, MARPOL, and IACS regulations related to ...

Minimum 8 years of experience in hull structure design, shipbuilding, or classification society plan approval. * In-depth knowledge of IMO conventions, SOLAS, MARPOL, and IACS regulations related to ...

... state, Port State, Classification Society, or other government bodies for any changes to the construction or equipment onboard. * Maintain frequent communication with the Marine Technical ...

Ship Manager

Miami, FL ยท On-site

... state, Port State, Classification Society, or other government bodies for any changes to the construction or equipment onboard. * Maintain frequent communication with the Marine Technical ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Classification Society information

See salary details

$12

$22

$36

How much do classification society jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for classification society in the United States is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced when working for a Classification Society, and how can professionals prepare for them?

Professionals working in a Classification Society often face challenges such as staying updated with evolving international maritime regulations, balancing stringent safety standards with the practical realities of ship operations, and managing complex inspections under tight deadlines. Collaboration with shipowners, maritime engineers, and regulatory bodies is common, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills. Preparing for these challenges involves ongoing professional development, attention to detail, and adaptability to diverse work environments, including time spent both in the office and aboard vessels.

What is the difference between Classification Society vs Surveyor?

AspectClassification SocietySurveyor
CredentialsCertifications in marine or engineering standards, membershipsCertifications in inspection, engineering, or maritime fields
Work EnvironmentHeadquarters, offices, shipyards, maritime industry sitesShip inspections, site visits, maritime facilities
Employer & IndustryMaritime, shipping, offshore industriesMaritime companies, shipowners, regulatory agencies

Classification Society and Surveyor roles are closely related in the maritime industry. While a Classification Society develops standards and certifies ships, a Surveyor conducts inspections to ensure compliance with these standards. Both require similar certifications and work in maritime environments, but their responsibilities differ: the Society sets the rules, and the Surveyor enforces them through inspections.

What are the key roles of classification societies?

A classification society is responsible for establishing and maintaining technical standards for the design, construction, and operation of ships and offshore structures. They conduct surveys, inspections, and certifications to ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards, often using specialized tools and certifications. Their work helps promote safety, reliability, and regulatory adherence in the maritime industry.

What is a classification society?

A classification society is an independent organization that establishes and maintains technical standards for the construction and operation of ships and offshore structures. They conduct inspections and surveys to ensure vessels comply with these standards throughout their lifespan. Classification societies play a crucial role in promoting maritime safety, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance. Shipowners, insurers, and regulatory bodies rely on their certifications and reports to assess a vessel's condition and seaworthiness.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Classification Society role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Classification Society role, you need a solid background in marine engineering, naval architecture, or a related technical field, typically supported by relevant degrees and industry certifications. Familiarity with technical standards, regulatory compliance systems, and inspection software is essential for performing vessel or asset assessments. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial for delivering clear reports and collaborating with shipowners and regulatory bodies. These skills ensure the safe and reliable operation of ships and offshore structures, upholding industry standards and international regulations.
More about Classification Society jobs
What job categories do people searching Classification Society jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Classification Society jobs are:
Infographic showing various Classification Society job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,274 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Welder

Welder

Philly Shipyard

Philadelphia, PA โ€ข On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

  • Ensure that all Hanwha Philly Shipyard safety procedures, rules and regulations are followed and met
  • Knowledge and proficiencyย  of heavy shipyard construction weldingย  in all positions using approved WPS (Welding Procedure Specification) determined by Hanwha Philly Shipyard and classification society
  • Welding process includes:
    • FCAW โ€“ Flux Core Arc Welding
    • SMAC โ€“ Shielded Metalย  Arc Welding
    • SAW โ€“ Submerged Arc Welding
    • EGW โ€“ Electro Gas Welding
    • Automated Welding Processes
    • Stainless Steel Fillet Welding
    • Padding and preparing weld joints per WPS
    • Carbon Arc Gouging
    • Note: Not inclusive, shall be determined by vessel specification andย  classification rules ย 
  • Knowledge, understanding and demonstration of interpreting approved WPS set forth at Hanwha Philly Shipyard
  • Knowledge and ability on how to use all tools related to welding, including basic trouble shooting and maintaining welding equipment to assure a safe and efficient operation
  • Welder must proficiently demonstrate welding ability through performance, and testing as determined by vessel project and classification
  • Welder must be able to work in a team environment
  • Welder shall perform internal quality checks of own work performance to assure quality standards are achieved dailyย 
  • Welder shall maintain their individual NDT rejection set forth by Hanwha Philly Shipyard and classification society
  • Perform other related duties as required and assigned


COMPETENCIES

  • Work Independently according to valid instructions and Hanwha Philly Shipyard rules and standards
  • Flexible cooperation with team members
  • Must be able to work in different environments and areas (e.g. indoors, outdoors, in confined spaces, on scissor lifts and aerial lifts, and in inclement weather)
  • Ability to orient, train and instruct lesser skilled welders

SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILTY

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
WORK ENVIRONMENT

Environmental exposures are similar to those found in most heavy industrial settings and may include noise, heat, cold, vibration, dust, fumes and smoke.ย  Work may be carried on indoors or outdoors, and may involve exposure to inclement weather conditions.ย 

*Hanwha Philly Shipyard is a TOBACCO FREE facility.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.ย  Employment in this position is contingent upon passing the medical examination.ย  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.ย 

POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

This is an on-site, full-time, safety sensitive position.ย  Standard days and hours of work vary by department, days and hours determined by department schedules.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 3+ yearsโ€™ work experience welding, (flux core and ceramic preferred)ย 
  • Welding robotics and programming a plus

OTHER DUTIES

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. ย Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time or without notice.

Hanwha Philly Shipyard is committed to equal opportunity for all applicants.ย  The recruitment, selection, employment and training of employees during employment, shall be without discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, gender or age-except that the applicant must meet the minimum age requirement.ย  Hanwha Philly Shipyard does not, and will not, discriminate because of the disability of such individual.