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Entry Level Shipyard Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Structural Welder

Morgan City, LA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Pass entry level welding test or ABS certification test, depending on classification and welding process. * Proficient in one or many of the following welding processes; SMAW, FCAW, * FCAW-G, GMAW ...

$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 ...

$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 ...

Firewatch

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Company is now hiring Entry Level Laborers * The Firewatch supports refurbishment activities by assisting skilled trades personnel and closely monitoring welding operations to prevent fire hazards.

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Entry Level Shipyard Welder information

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$18

$25

$41

How much do entry level shipyard welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level shipyard welder in the United States is $25.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you make $100,000 as a welder?

Entry level shipyard welders typically do not earn $100,000 annually; such high earnings are usually associated with experienced welders, specialized skills, overtime, or working in high-demand industries. Most welders' salaries depend on location, certifications, and the complexity of the work performed. Achieving a $100,000 salary generally requires several years of experience and advanced qualifications.

How to become a rig welder with no experience?

To become a rig welder with no experience, start by obtaining a high school diploma or GED and completing a welding training program or apprenticeship to learn basic welding skills. Gaining certifications such as the AWS Certified Welder can improve job prospects, and acquiring experience in structural or pipe welding helps prepare for rig welding roles, which often require knowledge of safety protocols and the use of specialized equipment. Entry-level positions may be available through apprenticeships or on-the-job training in industrial or construction environments.

Can you get hired as a welder with no experience?

Entry level shipyard welders can sometimes be hired without prior experience if they demonstrate basic welding skills, often through training programs or certifications like the AWS Certified Welder. Employers may also provide on-the-job training, especially if the candidate shows a strong work ethic and willingness to learn. However, having some related skills or certifications can improve job prospects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Shipyard Welder vs Entry Level Pipe Welder?

AspectEntry Level Shipyard WelderEntry Level Pipe Welder
CertificationsBasic welding certifications (e.g., AWS D1.1)Basic welding certifications, often including pipe welding certifications
Work EnvironmentShipyards, large industrial facilities, outdoor and indoorConstruction sites, industrial plants, outdoor and indoor
Industry UsageShipbuilding, maritime, heavy industryOil & gas, plumbing, industrial piping
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Shipyard Welder and an Entry Level Pipe Welder lies in their work focus and environment. Shipyard welders typically work on ships and maritime structures, while pipe welders specialize in piping systems across various industries. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but their specific tasks and industry applications differ.

How to get into shipyard welding?

To become an entry-level shipyard welder, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a welding training program or apprenticeship. Certification from the American Welding Society (AWS) can improve job prospects, and familiarity with welding tools and safety procedures is essential for working in shipyard environments.
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Welder - Entry Level

$19 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


General Dynamics Electric Boat rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Are you interested in welding but don't have training or experience? This is a great opportunity.

Apply today to this entry level welding position, we will provide paid training and become part of the welding team at Electric Boat that takes pride in building the world's most advanced submarines!

No welding experience or training required. Paid training provided!

Benefits include:

  • Paid training
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision
  • 401K plan with up to 6% employer match
  • Paid vacations and holidays
  • Growth opportunities
  • Shift Premium
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Commuter Van Service/RIPTA
  • Tuition Reimbursement Programs
  • Safety Boot Reimbursement Program

Duties include but are not limited to the following:

  • Welding on a wide variety of materials, using an ever-growing number of weld processes
  • Welding structural assemblies using GMAW and SMAW during fabrication and installation of submarine construction
  • Participation in continuous training in traditional, and new welding processes, using both conventional and state-of-the art equipment (Qualification required for each process)
  • Use of pneumatic tools such as grinders, burr tools, wire brushes, etc.
  • Oxy/fuel pre-heat and carbon/arc gouging as well as verifying weld size using weld gauges
  • Reading and interpretation of weld symbols, technique sheets, and work packages
  • Additional tasks as assigned

This position in located at the Quonset Point Facility in North Kingstown, RI. 


Required

  • High school diploma or equivalent OR a minimum of 2 years related technical experience
  • Available to work all shifts
  • Ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and in extreme temperature conditions as required
  • Must be able to pass destructive bend weld test after training
  • Individuals are required to possess their own basic hand tools

Preferred:

  • Vocational, Technical, Community College or Apprentice programs
  • Experience and/or training in the construction industry or a manufacturing environment
  • Basic mathematical skills
  • Military/Navy experience 
  • Ability to interpret welding and shipyard procedures, structural drawings, technical manuals, test documents and diagrams 

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work in a collaborative and team environment and meet organizational goals

Climbing, Crawling, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Medium Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting
Cold, Dry, Dusty, Fumes, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily

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