Shipyard Mechanic
$22 - $27/hr
Shipyard Mechanic (Boilermaker Support) Location: Norfolk, VA Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp-to-Hire Available Industry: Maritime / Ship Repair / Defense Position Summary LEAD Marine is ...
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Shipyard Mechanic
$22 - $27/hr
Shipyard Mechanic (Boilermaker Support) Location: Norfolk, VA Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp-to-Hire Available Industry: Maritime / Ship Repair / Defense Position Summary LEAD Marine is ...
Contract Boilermaker information
See Virginia salary details
$18.35 - $19.67
12% of jobs
$19.67 - $20.99
3% of jobs
$20.99 - $22.32
1% of jobs
$22.32 - $23.64
4% of jobs
$24.68 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$23.64 - $24.96
6% of jobs
$24.96 - $26.28
13% of jobs
$26.28 - $27.60
11% of jobs
The median wage is $27.64 / hr.
$27.60 - $28.92
18% of jobs
$29.61 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$28.92 - $30.25
15% of jobs
$30.25 - $31.57
13% of jobs
$31.57 - $32.89
5% of jobs
$18
$26
$32
How much do contract boilermaker jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract boilermaker in Virginia is $26.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.57 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract boilermaker, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Contract Boilermaker, you need expertise in welding, metal fabrication, blueprint reading, and a recognized boilermaker apprenticeship or trade qualification. Familiarity with industrial welding equipment, rigging tools, and safety certifications like OSHA or confined space training is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient construction and repair of boilers and pressure vessels, maintaining compliance with industry standards and minimizing downtime.
What is a contract boilermaker?
Contract Boilermakers are skilled tradespeople who are hired on a temporary or project basis to assemble, install, maintain, and repair boilers, tanks, and other large vessels that hold liquids and gases. They often work in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy, and may be employed by contractors for specific projects rather than as permanent staff. Their work involves reading blueprints, using specialized tools, and adhering to strict safety standards. Contract Boilermakers typically travel to different job sites and may work in challenging environments, sometimes requiring overtime or shift work depending on project needs.
What are some typical challenges contract boilermakers face when working on short-term projects?
Contract Boilermakers often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to new job sites, equipment, and safety protocols, as each project may have different requirements. They must efficiently collaborate with diverse teams, which can include other trades and site supervisors, to ensure work is completed on tight deadlines. Additionally, maintaining high-quality workmanship while adhering to strict safety standards is essential, especially in environments where conditions can change rapidly. Flexibility and strong communication skills are key to overcoming these challenges and successfully completing each contract.
What is the difference between Contract Boilermaker vs Welders?
| Aspect | Contract Boilermaker | Welders |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Boilermaker certification, welding licenses | Welding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWB) |
| Work Environment | Industrial plants, construction sites, shipyards | Factories, construction sites, repair shops |
| Industry Usage | Heavy industry, power plants, shipbuilding | Manufacturing, construction, maintenance |
Contract Boilermakers and welders often share certifications and work in industrial environments. However, Contract Boilermakers specialize in assembling and repairing large metal structures like boilers and tanks, while welders focus on joining metals in various applications. Both roles are essential in heavy industry, but Contract Boilermakers typically handle more complex, large-scale projects.
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 Contract Boilermaker jobs in Virginia? For Contract Boilermaker jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Boilermaker jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Boilermaker jobs in Virginia are:
$22 - $27/hr
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision
Re-posted 23 days ago
Job description
Shipyard Mechanic (Boilermaker Support)
Location: Norfolk, VA
Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp-to-Hire Available
Industry: Maritime / Ship Repair / Defense
Position SummaryLEAD Marine is seeking experienced Shipyard Mechanics to support boilermaker operations on active ship repair and modernization projects in Norfolk, Virginia. This position is responsible for assisting with the repair, maintenance, installation, and fabrication of structural components, tanks, boilers, pressure vessels, and related shipboard systems aboard U.S. Navy, commercial, and government vessels.
The ideal candidate will possess strong mechanical aptitude, shipyard experience, and the ability to work safely in a fast-paced maritime environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities- Assist boilermakers with the removal, repair, fabrication, and installation of shipboard structural components.
- Perform mechanical repairs on tanks, foundations, hatches, bulkheads, and related equipment.
- Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, sketches, and technical work documents.
- Operate hand tools, power tools, grinders, pneumatic tools, and cutting equipment.
- Assist with fitting, aligning, and securing steel components and assemblies.
- Prepare surfaces for welding, cutting, and installation activities.
- Conduct measurements and layouts using tape measures, levels, squares, and other precision tools.
- Remove and replace damaged metal structures and equipment.
- Work in confined spaces, tanks, voids, and other shipboard environments.
- Maintain compliance with OSHA, NAVSEA, and shipyard safety requirements.
- Perform housekeeping and maintain a clean work area.
- Support project completion schedules and production goals.
- Minimum 2 years of shipyard, industrial, or heavy mechanical experience preferred.
- Previous experience supporting boilermakers, shipfitters, welders, or structural repair teams strongly preferred.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and work specifications.
- Familiarity with shipboard repair procedures and maritime safety standards.
- Experience using common shipyard tools and equipment.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
- Reliable transportation and ability to report to work consistently.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
- Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, and enter confined spaces.
- Ability to stand, kneel, crouch, bend, and work in various weather conditions for extended periods.
- Must be capable of wearing required PPE, including respirators when necessary.
- Must be eligible to obtain and maintain shipyard access credentials (DBIDS preferred).
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Shipyard safety certifications are a plus.
- U.S. Navy ship repair experience.
- Experience working aboard aircraft carriers, submarines, destroyers, amphibious ships, or commercial vessels.
- Knowledge of NAVSEA standards and military specifications.
- Fire Watch, OSHA 10 Maritime, or Confined Space certifications.
- Competitive Pay
- Weekly Pay
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Paid Sick Leave
- Paid Holidays (where applicable)
- Opportunities for Overtime
- Long-Term Career Growth with a Leading Maritime Staffing Provider
LEAD Marine specializes in providing highly skilled maritime and industrial trades professionals to shipyards, government contractors, and marine repair facilities nationwide. Our team connects experienced craftsmen with rewarding opportunities while supporting critical shipbuilding and repair projects throughout the United States.
Apply today and become part of a team helping keep America's fleet mission-ready.
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