2

Entry Level Shipyard Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maintain welding machines, forklifts, crawler cranes, wire feeders, and hand tools. * Enter and work in confined spaces. * Mechanical and electrical troubleshooting. * Repair and overhaul of large ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Shipyard Welder information

See salary details

$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.
More about Entry Level Shipyard Welder jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Shipyard Welder jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Shipyard Welder job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Shipyard Welder jobs? The most popular types of Shipyard Welder jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Shipyard Welder jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Shipyard Welder jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Shipyard Welder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Shipyard Welder jobs are:
Pipefitter - Entry Level and Skilled

Pipefitter - Entry Level and Skilled

General Dynamics Electric Boat

North Kingstown, RI

$24.50 - $31.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 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 learning a new trade, but don't have experience yet? Or do you have plumbing and/or HVAC experience and are looking for a career with opportunities to grow?

Apply today! No experience required. As long as you are eager and willing to learn, we will provide training and opportunities for you to excel as a Pipefitter.

Some of the Benefits we provide to you include:

  • Paid Training
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Prescription coverage
  • 401K plan 
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Shift Differential for 2nd and 3rd shift 
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Commuter/Van Services/Ripta
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Safety Boot Reimbursement Program
  • Professional Development and Advancement Opportunities 

Pipefitter Responsibilities:

Fabricate and install the piping systems that will carry the ship's liquids and gasses at various pressures. Pipefitters use measurement, fit-up bending, and installation skills and techniques to comply with tight tolerances. Familiarity with pipe bending requirements, bolting and welding pipe hangers to support systems & pipe detail fabrication is helpful.  Duties include:

  • Pipe fit-up which may involve welded joints, silver brazed joints or mechanically fastened joints
  • Working with very small tubing to very large diameter piping
  • Working with various systems including hydraulic, lube oil, high and low pressure air, high and low pressure steam, sea water, chilled water, and potable water
  • Grooming systems to prepare for Company, Navy and Government inspections
  • Cutting pipe using saws and pipe cutters and fit pipe using consumable inserts
  • Cleaning and maintaining cleanliness of piping components

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


Required:

  • High school diploma or equivalent OR 2 plus years of related technical experience
  • Available to work all shifts
  • Ability to work at heights, confined spaces and extreme temperature conditions as required
  • Individuals are required to possess their own basic hand tools

Preferred:

  • Ability to interpret technical manuals, shipyard procedures, test documents, blueprints, diagrams, and perform basic layout functions
  • Pipefitting, plumbing, HVAC experience or training 
  • Experience working in the construction industry or a manufacturing environment
  • Metal fabrication experience and military shipbuilding experience
  • Vocational, Technical and Community Colleges or Apprentice programs
  • Related Military/Navy experience

  • 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, Wet

What General Dynamics Electric Boat employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom