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Entry Level Shipbuilding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BAE Systems

Superintendent I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$67K - $114K/yr

BAE Systems is seeking an entry level Ship Superintendent I. In this position, you will report onsite to support the Maritime Solutions Business at our San Diego, CA facility. As a Ship ...

General Dynamics Bath Iron Works

$26.76 - $27.85/hr

This is an entry level position to work within the Marine Electrical Trade. Applicants may be ... Applicants must be able to perform this work in all areas of the shipyard to include shipboard, in ...

General Dynamics Bath Iron Works

$26.76 - $27.85/hr

This is an entry level position to work within the Marine Electrical Trade. Applicants may be ... Applicants must be able to perform this work in all areas of the shipyard to include shipboard, in ...

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All JobsShipbuilding JobsEntry Level Shipbuilding Jobs

Entry Level Shipbuilding information

See salary details

$40.5K

$86.4K

$142.5K

How much do entry level shipbuilding jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level shipbuilding in the United States is $86,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $103,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you need experience to work at a shipyard?

Entry level shipbuilding jobs typically do not require prior experience, as employers often provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as physical fitness, ability to follow safety protocols, and willingness to learn are important, and some positions may require a high school diploma or equivalent.

What is the difference between Entry Level Shipbuilding vs Entry Level Marine Engineering?

AspectEntry Level ShipbuildingEntry Level Marine Engineering
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications
Work EnvironmentShipyards, manufacturing facilitiesShipyards, engine rooms, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageDesign, construction, assembly of shipsMaintenance, operation, and repair of ship engines
Common Search IntentEntry Level Shipbuilding vs Entry Level Marine Engineering

Entry Level Shipbuilding focuses on the construction and assembly of ships, requiring technical skills and certifications. Entry Level Marine Engineering involves maintaining and operating ship engines, often requiring similar credentials. Both roles are found in shipyards and are essential to ship manufacturing and maintenance, but they differ in daily tasks and focus areas.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level shipbuilding roles typically do not pay $4,000 a week; such high wages are usually associated with specialized trades, management positions, or skilled labor requiring experience or certifications. High-paying jobs without a degree often include commercial fishing, offshore drilling, or certain construction trades, but these may involve physical demands and safety training. Most roles paying this amount require significant experience or specialized skills beyond entry level.

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

Entry level shipbuilding jobs often do not require prior experience, as employers may provide on-the-job training. However, having basic skills such as mechanical aptitude, physical fitness, and safety awareness can improve chances of employment. Certifications like OSHA safety training or maritime safety courses can also be beneficial for entry-level applicants.

How to get into the shipbuilding industry?

To enter the entry level shipbuilding industry, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may benefit from technical training or apprenticeships in welding, carpentry, or metal fabrication. Relevant skills include mechanical aptitude, ability to work in a team, and familiarity with safety protocols; certifications like OSHA can also improve job prospects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Shipbuilding jobs? The most popular types of Shipbuilding jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Shipbuilding jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Shipbuilding jobs are:
Entry Level Shipbuilding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Shipbuilding job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,381 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Shipboard Deck Tile Mechanic

Shipboard Deck Tile Mechanic

National Steel and Shipbuilding Com

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

General Dynamics NASSCO is a proud member of the General Dynamics Marine Systems business unit. In addition to ship construction, our capabilities include advanced ship repair, conversion, and maintenance for both commercial and national defense assets. We encourage you to learn more about our open positions and how you can become part of the important and exciting work we do here at NASSCO. Come join our team!
We currently have an exciting opportunity in our Sheet Metal department. This position specifically is located in Norfolk, Virginia. We are looking for (2) two Shipboard Deck Tile Mechanics. The work schedule is 0600 to 1345 Monday - Sunday.
PURPOSE AND FUNCTIONS
The Shipboard Deck Tile Mechanic role supports the installation, repair, and maintenance of deck covering systems aboard U.S. Navy and commercial vessels. This position ensures work is performed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with NAVSEA and MIL-STD requirements. This role is structured as a career ladder to support workforce development, enabling progression from entry-level labor support to advanced, independent mechanic work while promoting skill development, cross-training, and internal mobility.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
  • Knowledge
    • Basic to advanced knowledge of deck covering systems, materials, and installation techniques.
    • Understanding of safety procedures and industrial worksite requirements.
    • Familiarity with NAVSEA/MIL-STD requirements (progressive by level).
    • Blueprint reading and technical document interpretation (J2+)
    • Basic knowledge of construction and carpentry principles and materials
    • Understanding of measurement, layout, and material fitting techniques
  • Skills
    • Use of hand tools and power tools
    • Measuring, cutting, and material handling
    • Surface preparation and installation techniques
    • Problem-solving and troubleshooting (J3-J4)
    • Time management and task prioritization
    • Basic carpentry skills (measuring, cutting, fitting materials)
    • Use of construction-related tools and equipment
    • Material layout and installation support
  • Abilities
    • Ability to work in confined spaces, at heights, and in physically demanding environments.
    • Ability to follow detailed instructions and work independently (progressive).
    • Ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment.
    • Ability to maintain attention to detail and quality standards.
    • Ability to train and mentor others (J3-J4).
    • Ability to perform a variety of trade-related tasks beyond primary specialization
    • Ability to adapt to multi-trade work environments

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & CERTIFICATIONS
  • Education
    • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
    • Relevant technical training or trade certification is a plus.
  • Experience (by Level)
    • Laborer (entry-level): No prior experience required
    • Helper/handyperson: 0-1 year of related experience or demonstrated reliability
    • J1: 1-2 years of relevant experience (construction, maintenance, or shipyard preferred)
    • J2: 1-2 years of relevant experience (construction, flooring, or shipyard preferred)
    • J3: 2-4 years of progressive shipyard or marine flooring experience
    • J4" 4-6+ years of advanced experience in marine decking systems
  • Certifications/Licenses
    • OSHA 10 preferred
    • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain NAVSEA and DBIDS access
  • Preferred qualifications
    • Experience in shipyard, marine, or industrial environments
    • Familiarity with commercial maritime or offshore wind support work
    • Basic carpentry or composite skills

REQUIRED COMPANY-WIDE COMPETENCIES
  • Adaptability: Anticipates and effectively handles change. Willingly accepts new ideas.
  • Collaboration: Builds partnerships and works collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives. Seeks and values others' opinions.
  • Communication: Communicates effectively both verbally and in writing.
  • Results Driven: Effectively manages time and resources to ensure work is completed efficiently and in line with priorities.
  • Initiative: Proactively identifies a need, takes responsibility, and acts on it without being prompted.
  • Problem Solving & Decision Making: Identifies problems, solves them, acts decisively, and shows good judgement.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Core Responsibilities
    • Perform rip-out, surface preparation, repair, and installation of deck covering systems (e.g., vinyl composition tile, linoleum, ceramic tile, epoxy coatings, non-skid, and ablative decking).
    • Execute work in confined shipboard spaces, at heights, and industrial environments.
    • Follow NAVSEA standards, technical specifications, and safety protocols.
    • Maintain quality workmanship and contribute to on-time project completion.
    • Support team operations through collaboration, communication, and adherence to production schedules.
    • Perform basic construction and carpentry-related tasks in support of deck installation and shipboard work.
  • Key Duties
    • Remove and dispose of existing deck materials during rip-out.
    • Prepare surfaces through cleaning, grinding, and leveling.
    • Measure, cut, and install tile and underlayment materials.
    • Apply adhesives, caulking, and finishing materials.
    • Perform repairs and assist with inspections to ensure quality standards.
    • Operate and maintain hand and power tools safely.
    • Read and follow blueprints, drawings, and work instructions (progressively by level).
    • Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas.
    • Mentor and support lower-level employees (J3-J4)
    • Assist with basic carpentry tasks such as measuring, cutting, and fitting materials.
    • Support construction-related activities including material staging, layout, and installation support.
    • Perform carpentry-related work including layout, cutting, fitting, and medication of materials as needed for deck system installation (J3-J4)
    • Interpret drawings/specifications to support both deck covering and related construction tasks.
  • Measurable Outcomes
    • Complete assigned work within established production timelines.
    • Maintain compliance with safety standards (zero safety violations/incidents attributable to workmanship).
    • Meet or exceed quality inspection standards with minimal rework.
    • Demonstrate progressive skill development aligned with level expectations.
    • Contribute to team productivity and successful project delivery milestones.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to lift 50+lbs regularly
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform repetitive physical tasks for extended periods.
  • Ability to work in confined spaces, at heights, and in varying environmental conditions.
  • Ability to climb ladders and navigate shipboard environments.
  • Adequate vision, hearing, and manual dexterity for safe tool operation.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding construction-related tasks including lifting, carrying, and material handling.

WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
  • Reports to Sheet Metal General Foreman
  • Works closely with mechanics, helpers, and other trade personnel
  • Collaborates with quality, safety, and production teams to ensure project success.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to work overtime, shifts, and varying schedules as needed
  • Must pass pre-employment drug screening, background check, and physical agility test.
  • Must obtain and maintain required badges and clearance (NAVSEA and DBIDS).
  • Performs additional duties as assigned.

General Dynamics NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.
To learn more about applicant rights under federal law, click here:
"Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal" Poster | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal
If you have a disability that impacts your ability to complete the job application process and would like to request an accommodation, please contact our Human Resources Department.
Call (757) 543-6801. This contact information is for accommodation requests only, not to inquire about the status of applications. NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans Employer

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