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Entry Level Ship Fitter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

In addition to ship construction, our capabilities include advanced ship repair, conversion, and ... Laborer (entry-level): No prior experience required * Helper/handyperson: 0-1 year of related ...

$24.75 - $29.50/hr

In addition to ship construction, our capabilities include advanced ship repair, conversion, and ... Laborer (entry-level): No prior experience required * Helper/handyperson: 0-1 year of related ...

... Shipbuilding. POSITION SUMMARY Under general supervision and with assistance as needed, install, repair, maintain and service electrical equipment and fittings in accordance with regulations and ...

Fabricator

Hollywood, SC

$20.25 - $26/hr

... ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: Entry-level position performing basic welding, fitting ...

Fabricator

Hollywood, SC ยท On-site

$20.25 - $26/hr

... ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: Entry-level position performing basic welding, fitting ...

Fabricator-Hollywood,South Carolina

Seabrook Island, SC ยท On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

... ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: Entry-level position performing basic welding, fitting ...

Fabricator-Hollywood,South Carolina

Edisto Beach, SC ยท On-site

$18.75 - $24/hr

... ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: Entry-level position performing basic welding, fitting ...

Fabricator

Hollywood, SC ยท On-site

$20.25 - $26/hr

... ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: Entry-level position performing basic welding, fitting ...

Fabricator

Hollywood, SC ยท On-site

$20.25 - $26/hr

... ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions -- and we do it with pride. Your Mission: Entry-level position performing basic welding, fitting ...

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Entry Level Ship Fitter information

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How much do entry level ship fitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level 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.

Do you need experience to be a shipfitter?

Entry level shipfitters typically do not need prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. However, having a background in welding, metalworking, or related skills can be beneficial. Employers often look for mechanical aptitude and the ability to follow safety protocols.

What is a 1st class shipfitter?

A 1st class shipfitter is a skilled tradesperson responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining metal structures on ships, such as hulls and decks. They typically have advanced experience, may supervise lower-level fitters, and are proficient with tools like welding equipment and blueprints. Certification or apprenticeship programs often qualify individuals for this senior role.

Can you get a job on a ship with no experience?

Entry level ship fitter positions often require some technical skills and knowledge of tools, but many companies offer training programs for candidates with no prior experience. Basic physical fitness and a willingness to learn are important, and certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects. Prior experience in related trades can be helpful but is not always mandatory for entry-level roles.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level ship fitters during their first few months on the job?

Entry level ship fitters often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work environments, learning to interpret complex blueprints, and mastering the use of specialized tools. Adjusting to working in confined spaces or at heights can also be difficult. However, most shipyards provide thorough on-the-job training and mentorship to help new hires develop the necessary skills and ensure safety. Building teamwork and communication skills is essential, as ship fitters regularly collaborate with welders, engineers, and other tradespeople.

What are entry level ship fitters?

Entry level ship fitters are workers who assist in the construction, repair, and maintenance of ships and other marine vessels. They typically work under the supervision of experienced ship fitters, using tools to cut, shape, and assemble metal parts according to blueprints and specifications. Their duties often include measuring and marking materials, fitting and tack-welding structural components, and ensuring the alignment and fit of assembled sections. This role is suitable for individuals starting their careers in the shipbuilding or maritime industries, and it provides hands-on experience and opportunities for advancement.

How to become a ship fitter?

To become a ship fitter, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant training or apprenticeship in shipbuilding or metal fabrication. Skills in welding, cutting, and fitting metal components are essential, and some positions may require certifications such as AWS welding certification. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training is common in this trade.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Ship Fitter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Ship Fitter, you need basic mechanical aptitude, ability to read blueprints, and a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with hand and power tools, welding equipment, and safety protocols is often required, and some employers may seek OSHA certification. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital to ensure precise assembly, safe working conditions, and efficient collaboration on shipbuilding projects.
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 Entry Level Ship Fitter jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Ship Fitter jobs include:

PRODUCTION CONTROLLER (PIPEFITTER)

U.S. Pacific Fleet

Almont, CO โ€ข On-site

$25.25 - $32.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Summary
You will serve as a PRODUCTION CONTROLLER (PIPEFITTER) in the Structural Production Control Division of TRIDENT REFIT FACILITY, BANGOR.
This announcement is for an Upward Mobility Program position.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • You will develop Controlled Work Packages (CWP) and Formal Work Packages (FWP) from Planned Maintenance Requirement (PMR) requests, Corrective Maintenance work requests, and TRlPER component overhaul requests.
  • You will develop man-hour estimates required for work accomplishment. Use Labor Standards and Uniform Method and Standard (UMS) tools to accurately and consistently determine man-hour estimates for the most efficient production effort.
  • You will conduct research of technical information prior to preparation of work packages to develop accurate Job Material Lists (JML) to provide accurate material cost estimates and to aid in procurement of required in-use materials.
  • You will research and correctly identify Quality Assurance (QA) requirements, write Re-Entry Controls (REC) and prepare all QA forms.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a US Citizen.
  • Must be determined suitable for federal employment.
  • Must participate in the direct deposit pay program.
  • New employees to the Department of the Navy will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov
  • Generally, current federal employees applying for GS jobs must serve at least one year at the next lower grade level. This requirement is called time-in-grade. Time-in-grade requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement.
  • Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days immediately following retirement date to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326.
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • This is a bargaining unit position.
  • You will be required to obtain and maintain an interim and/or final security clearance prior to entrance on duty. Failure to obtain and maintain the required level of clearance may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or removal.
  • You will be required to wear personal protective equipment such as helmets, gloves, coveralls, glasses, goggles, respirators and safety shoes continuously for the duration of the work shift.
  • This position may require travel from normal duty station to CONUS and OCONUS and may include remote or isolated sites. You must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods of time.
  • This position is subject to work an uncommon tour, including nights, weekends, and holidays to meet mission requirements. Overtime or night differential pay and/or unusual duty hours may be required.

Qualifications
The Upward Mobility Program is a unique job opportunity. This program is designed to provide Department of Navy employees career growth opportunities who have potential but do not presently meet the Office of Personnel Management qualification requirements for this position. The entry level for this position is GS-09 with a full performance level of GS-12. Knowledge of employees selected may vary and will require the development of an individually tailored training plan to assist them in qualifying for the full performance level of this position. Eligibility requires that the employee be performing satisfactorily, complete all training requirements, acquire the requisite qualifications and have met time-in-grade eligibility for career ladder promotions.
This recruitment is open to current UIC 68438 Pipefitter (series 4204) employees who possess the basic knowledge, skills, and ability at or equivalent to WG-10 or GS-09 or higher grade level/pay band in the Federal service or equivalent in the private or public sector interpreting or utilizing technical engineering documents, instructions, drawings or sketches for the repair or maintenance of ships, submarines or industrial equipment.
Employee Participation Requirements
  • Must be a current permanent employee serving under a competitive appointment, or on a time-limited or excepted appointment that provides for noncompetitive conversion to a permanent appointment (e.g., VRA, Schedule A Individuals with Disabilities).
  • Apply through USAJOBS or Flyer for a Program position that has an entry level at the same or lower grade level of the position currently held by the employee;
  • Employees must be WG-4204-10, or GS-09 or higher to be eligible for this opportunity.
  • Have a current annual performance rating of fully successful or equivalent rating

Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/#url=List-by-Occupational-Series
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
Education
In lieu of specialized experience, you may qualify for the GS-09 Grade Level with the following education or combination of both education and experience:
Successful completion of a master's or equivalent graduate degree
OR
Successful completion of two full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a master's degree
OR
A combination of experience and graduate education as described above that equates to one year of experience.
A transcript must be submitted with your application if qualifying using education. See Required Documents for additional information.
Additional information
This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program.
Additional vacancies may be filled by this announcement.
A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if the selectee fails to meet the pre-employment requirements, including failure to report to any of the scheduled appointments.
During the application process you will have the ability to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions in the local commuting area. Depending on the hiring organization and the position being filled, job requirements (e.g., security clearance, travel, drug testing, financial disclosure filing, bargaining unit status, etc.) may vary. Other hiring managers filling similar positions may offer relocation expense reimbursement and/or may offer recruitment incentives for new employees, depending on funding availability and in accordance with policy. If you opt-in and are referred on a certificate, your resume will be available to other hiring managers for 180-days from the date the job announcement closes. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.
Federal annuitant information: The selection of an annuitant is subject to the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy policy on the employment of annuitants. Policy information may be found at: http://www.secnav.navy.mil/donhr/Documents/CivilianJobs/FedCivAnnuitants.pdf
Employees who are selected for a program position at a grade lower than they currently hold on a permanent basis, and whose existing salary cannot be accommodated within the salary range of the lower grade, are entitled to pay retention.
PPP applicants will be placed at the FPL, if determined Well Qualified (WQ). To receive priority consideration, the FPL must be the same grade level or equivalent of the retained grade or the grade held immediately prior to separation.
ICTAP Applicants: To be considered well-qualified and exercise selection priority as an ICTAP candidate, displaced Federal employees must satisfy all qualification requirements for the position and receive a rating in the highly qualified category (score 85) or higher. ICTAP candidates must provide copies of all of the following documentation at the time of application: 1) agency notice; 2) most recent performance appraisal; and 3) most recent SF-50 or notification of personnel action that includes position, grade level, and duty location. Applicants who do not provide this documentation will not receive consideration as an ICTAP candidate. For more information about ICTAP eligibility please review the following link: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/working-in-government/unique-hiring-paths/federal-employees/career-transition/
Only Military Spouse Preference/PPP applicants currently occupying positions for which a comprehensive training plan has been developed and authorized are entitled to exercise their priority status for this announcement. The most common formal training positions are apprentices, formal interns, and scientist and engineering interns. Upward Mobility Positions that have equivalent training plans are also included when the positions have been pre-identified in an Affirmative Action or similar plan. You must provide documentation supporting you are in a formal training plan (e.g., SF50 and official signed training agreement between you and your command).
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.