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Craft Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice Carpenter

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

This role combines hands on traditional trade work with public education, requiring strong communication skills, curiosity, and dedication to preserving historic craftsmanship. Apprentices study ...

Home Improvement Apprentice

Manassas, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

The knowledge of our Master Craftsmen is very valuable, and so is the time they take to teach. Apprentices must be willing to check their pride at the door and accept that our Master Craftsman have a ...

Home Improvement Apprentice

Manassas, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

The knowledge of our Master Craftsmen is very valuable, and so is the time they take to teach. Apprentices must be willing to check their pride at the door and accept that our Master Craftsman have a ...

Fabricator Apprentice

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

Apprentice Fabricators start at $18 per hour; Associate Fabricators start at $19.50 per hour ... The ideal candidate will have an excellent eye for detail and some background in art or crafts ...

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Craft Apprentice information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$20

$36

How much do craft apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for craft apprentice in Virginia is $20.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $21.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a craft apprentice?

A Craft Apprentice is an individual who is learning a skilled trade, such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, or metalworking, through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Apprenticeships are structured programs that typically last several years and are designed to provide both practical experience and theoretical knowledge. Craft Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced tradespeople, gradually taking on more responsibility as their skills improve. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, individuals often become certified or journeymen in their chosen trade.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a craft apprentice?

To thrive as a Craft Apprentice, one needs a basic understanding of trade-specific techniques, manual dexterity, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety protocols, and, in some trades, completion of a recognized apprenticeship program or certifications like OSHA are typical requirements. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork skills help apprentices excel and integrate into skilled trade environments. These competencies are crucial for ensuring quality workmanship, maintaining safety standards, and advancing within the chosen craft.

What types of projects and hands-on tasks can a craft apprentice expect to work on during their training?

As a Craft Apprentice, you will typically alternate between classroom-based learning and hands-on work in the field under the supervision of experienced tradespeople. Common tasks include assisting with installations, repairs, and maintenance work relevant to your specific trade, such as electrical, plumbing, carpentry, or welding. Apprentices often help with measuring, cutting, assembling materials, and using specialized tools while gradually taking on more complex assignments as they gain skills. This structure ensures you gain practical experience and build confidence while contributing to real projects alongside a team.

What is the difference between Craft Apprentice vs Craft Worker?

AspectCraft ApprenticeCraft Worker
Required CredentialsTypically no formal certification; on-the-job trainingMay have certifications or experience in specific craft skills
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, often supervised, learning phaseSkilled work environment, performing specific craft tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in apprenticeship programs across trades like carpentry, plumbingEmployed as skilled labor in construction, manufacturing, or craft industries

In summary, a Craft Apprentice is in a training phase, learning skills under supervision, while a Craft Worker is a skilled professional performing craft tasks independently. The apprentice focuses on gaining experience, whereas the craft worker applies their skills in real-world projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Craft jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Craft jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Craft Apprentice job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,842 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Craft Apprentice (Job ID: 1448)

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.
Machinery Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

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


Job description

Craft Apprentice
Purpose:
Colonna's Shipyard, Inc. is seeking interested candidates to join our Craft Apprenticeship! We offer a comprehensive program for motivated individuals interested in starting careers in the ship repair and industrial fabrication industries.
About the Apprenticeship Program:
Colonna's Apprenticeship Program combines college-level technical instruction with on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced educators, skilled tradespeople, and industry leaders.
Being a Colonna's Apprentice takes dedication and commitment. Through the established pathway, apprentices navigate through educational requirements and hands-on experience, resulting in a journeyworker's card and in-demand industry experience and credentials.
This opportunity allows emerging professionals to earn while they learn and join the next generation of skilled tradespeople. For questions or additional information about the program, please contact us at Talent@ColonnaShip.com.
We offer apprenticeship opportunities in multiple trades pathways.
Particular pathway availability will be discussed during the information session. Info session available once adequate VPT results have been submitted.
The position is located onsite in Norfolk, VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel.
*Current Apprentice Openings:
Outside Machine Shop
Paint Shop
Gas Free
Rigging
*Availability is subject to change.
Program Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be a United States Citizen and at least 18 years of age or older.
  • Must have a High School Diploma or GED.
  • Must submit Virginia Placement Test (VPT) results dated within the last 12 months to abroemeling@colonnaship.com. To be eligible for an interview, the "Placement based upon results" must say:
    • For Math: Eligible for MAT 111
    • For English: Eligible for ENF 3, EDE 11 or ENG 111.
  • Must demonstrate a reasonable amount of mechanical aptitude including the ability to read a ruler and perform accurate measurement.
  • Must successfully pass a background check and be able to obtain/maintain access credentials to include DBIDS (for various base and shipyard access).
  • Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug and physical screening.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.
  • Position may require frequent use of respirator.

Benefits:
  • Colonna's Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid disability insurance, 401k with match, legal services, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).

Respect, Pride, Truth, Family - These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonna's Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Additionally, Colonna's Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid disability insurances, 401k with match, legal services, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).
Pay Range: Position starts at $18.00
Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate's relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees' best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO)