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Entry Level Shipfitter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Shipfitter information

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$12

$17

$23

How much do entry level shipfitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level shipfitter in the United States is $17.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Shipfitter vs Apprentice Shipfitter?

AspectEntry Level ShipfitterApprentice Shipfitter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic trainingEnrolled in apprenticeship program; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentAssists experienced shipfitters in shipyard settingsLearning and shadowing experienced workers in shipyard
Employer UsageEntry-level position for new hiresTraining role for those developing skills

While both roles involve working in shipbuilding environments, an Entry Level Shipfitter is a paid position requiring basic skills, whereas an Apprentice Shipfitter is in training, gaining skills through an apprenticeship program. The apprentice role focuses on learning, with the goal of becoming a fully qualified shipfitter.

What are entry level shipfitters?

Entry level shipfitters are workers who assist in the construction, assembly, and repair of ships and other marine vessels. They typically work under the supervision of experienced shipfitters, learning to read blueprints, measure and cut metal parts, and join structural components using welding or other methods. This role often serves as an introduction to the shipbuilding industry and provides hands-on training in fabrication, safety procedures, and teamwork. Entry level shipfitters usually work in shipyards or manufacturing facilities and may advance to more specialized positions with experience.

How to become a ship builder with no experience?

Entry level shipfitters typically start by gaining basic skills through on-the-job training or apprenticeships, which provide hands-on experience in welding, metalworking, and blueprint reading. No formal experience is usually required initially, but having a high school diploma or GED and familiarity with tools can help; certifications in welding or safety may improve job prospects.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Shipfitter, you need basic mechanical aptitude, proficiency in reading blueprints, and foundational skills in metal fabrication or welding, often supported by a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with hand and power tools, basic welding equipment, and safety protocols is typically required, and some positions may prefer candidates with OSHA safety certifications. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help individuals excel in collaborative and safety-focused shipyard environments. These skills are crucial to ensure safe, precise, and efficient assembly and repair of ship structures.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level shipfitters during their first year on the job?

Entry level shipfitters often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work environments, learning to read and interpret blueprints or technical drawings, and mastering the use of specialized tools and equipment. Additionally, they may need to quickly develop strong teamwork and communication skills, as shipfitting projects require close collaboration with welders, engineers, and other tradespeople. With guidance from experienced coworkers and a willingness to learn, new shipfitters can overcome these challenges and build a solid foundation for career advancement.
More about Entry Level Shipfitter jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Shipfitter jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Shipfitter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Shipfitter jobs? The most popular types of Shipfitter jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Shipfitter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Shipfitter jobs are:
Entry Level Shipfitter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Shipfitter job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,324 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Shipfitter (Grades 1 - 3)

Shipfitter (Grades 1 - 3)

General Dynamics - Bath Iron Works

Bath, ME

$26.76 - $27.85/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

General Dynamics Bath Iron Works rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Description
The pay range for this position ranges from $26.76/hr - $27.85/hr.
This is an entry level position to work in the Shipfitting Trade. Applicants may be assigned any Shipfitting Trade tasks, but will initially be assigned to assist in basic Shipfitting trade functions including (but not limited to): fabrication and installation of items made from steel, stainless steel and aluminum, and/or assist a more experienced Shipfitter in more complex fabrication and installation operations. Additionally, this entry level position would be involved in many types of prep work and grinding in way of part installation in all areas.
Required/Preferred Education/Training
Preferred:
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Technical or Vocational training in steel fabrication and/or carpentry trade.
Required/Preferred Experience
Required:
- Must have some experience working with metal, hand tools, and power tools.
- Must be able to read a tape measure, perform basic layout and perform simple math calculations.
- Must meet the requirements of the S40 physical task analysis.
Preferred:
- Ability to read blue prints.

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