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Entry Level Shipyard Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Shipyard information

See Connecticut salary details

$21.6K

$38.3K

$60.2K

How much do entry level shipyard jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level shipyard in Connecticut is $38,296.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,111.00 and $43,154.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level shipyard jobs?

Entry level shipyard jobs are positions within a shipyard that require little to no prior experience and are often the starting point for a career in shipbuilding or ship repair. These roles can include general laborers, helpers, welders' assistants, painters, and cleaners. Workers in these jobs typically assist skilled tradespeople, perform basic maintenance, and help keep the shipyard running smoothly. Entry level shipyard jobs provide on-the-job training, allowing employees to learn valuable skills and advance to more specialized roles over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level shipyard worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Shipyard Worker, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as safety certifications such as OSHA, are commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn help individuals stand out in this physically demanding environment. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring safety, efficiency, and quality workmanship in shipbuilding and repair projects.

What are some common challenges for entry level shipyard workers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level shipyard workers often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding tasks, learning safety protocols, and working in varying weather conditions. It can also be an adjustment to communicate effectively within a large, multidisciplinary team. These challenges can be addressed by actively participating in safety and skills training, seeking guidance from experienced coworkers, and maintaining a proactive attitude towards learning. Building strong communication skills and staying attentive to safety procedures are key to success and advancement in this environment.

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

AspectEntry Level ShipyardEntry Level Welder
Required CertificationsBasic safety training, OSHAWelding certifications (e.g., AWS)
Work EnvironmentShipbuilding yards, docksFabrication shops, construction sites
Industry UsageShipbuilding, repairManufacturing, construction
Common Search IntentEntry level positions in shipbuildingEntry level welding jobs

Entry Level Shipyard roles typically focus on general tasks in shipbuilding environments, requiring safety training and basic skills. Entry Level Welders specialize in welding techniques, often needing specific certifications. While both work in industrial settings related to construction and manufacturing, their skills and certifications differ, making each role distinct within the maritime and industrial sectors.

How much do entry level shipyard workers make?

Entry-level shipyard workers typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the specific employer. Starting salaries may increase with skills such as welding or safety certifications, and workers often receive benefits like health insurance and overtime pay.

How to get a job at the entry level shipyard?

To get an entry-level shipyard job, applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent and be prepared to pass physical and safety assessments. Relevant skills include basic knowledge of tools and safety procedures, and some positions may require certifications such as OSHA training. Applying through company websites, staffing agencies, or job boards and demonstrating a willingness to learn are common steps.

What are the most commonly searched types of Shipyard jobs in Connecticut?

The most popular types of Shipyard jobs in Connecticut are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Shipyard jobs in Connecticut?

For Entry Level Shipyard jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Shipyard jobs in Connecticut look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Shipyard jobs in Connecticut are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Shipyard job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,296 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

2026 Recent High School Grads - Entry Level Trades Opportunities - Groton

Groton, CT • On-site


General Dynamics Electric Boat
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 164 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 545 rated manufacturers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$24.28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Overview
Attention Class of 2026 High School Grads!!!
Do you enjoy working with your hands? Are you ready to start a career with training and growth opportunities? Did you miss the opportunity to interview at your school, but are still interested in trade opportunities at Electric Boat? Now's your chance!
Electric Boat is the premier designer and builder of nuclear powered submarines for the US Navy and we are experiencing a period of unprecedented growth! We are looking for people who want to learn and grow with the company as we continue to build the most advanced submarines.
Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401K Plan
  • Paid Vacation, Paid Sick & Holidays
  • 7% Shift Premium
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Commuter/Van Services
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Apprenticeship Program
  • Safety Boot Reimbursement Program
  • Training
  • Minimum starting Hourly Rate $24.28

Apply today!!! No experience necessary. We will train you to join our dedicated team building the most advanced and sophisticated submarines in the world!
All entry-level positions require membership to applicable Metal Trades Council or United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America Union.
Our Entry Level Trades opportunities include:
Outside Machinists*
  • Works on the submarine doing assembly and shipboard mechanical work that takes place in the shipyard

Carpenters
  • Responsible for building staging, platforms, and scaffolding for other trades to be able to work in and around the boat.

Painters*
  • Preserves the hull and components by sealing the submarines with chemicals and paints to prevent corrosion and protect against the accumulation of marine life.

Shipfitter*
  • Responsible for laying out and fabricating metal structural parts, such as plates, bulkheads, frames, foundations, etc. Align and tracks weld's structural parts

Grinder
  • Working with various metals and pipes to be formed within a high degree of precision

Sheetmetal Worker*
  • Metal carpenters for the boat. Job tasks include layout, fabrication, assembly, and installation of all light gauge metalwork which includes air-conditioned ductwork, lockers, cabinets, prefabricated bulkheads, doors, furniture and Formica.

*Pre-employment training is provided by Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB) for these positions
Qualifications
Required:
  • Must be a high school senior and graduating by August of 2026
  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Available to train and work on any shift
  • Ability to work at heights, confined spaces and in extreme weather conditions as required
  • Possess your own basic hand tools

Preferred:
  • Vocational HS

Skills
  • Ability to work successfully in a production/construction environment
  • Applicant will be required to work in a collaborative and team environment
  • Ability to communicate effectively with supervision and peers

Physical Qualifications
Climbing, Color Vision, Crawling, Heavy Lifting, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Medium Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting
Environmental Attributes
Acids or Alkalis, Cold, Dry, Dusty, Fumes, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily, Outside, Wet


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