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Entry Level Shipyard Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Shipyard information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$23.3K

$41.3K

$64.9K

How much do entry level shipyard jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level shipyard in Seattle, WA is $41,300.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,551.00 and $46,539.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get into the entry level shipyard?

Entry level shipyard jobs are generally accessible to applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent and basic physical fitness. Prior experience or certifications are not always required, but having skills in welding, safety procedures, or mechanical work can improve chances of hiring. The application process often involves on-the-job training and safety orientation.

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.

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 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 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.

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 work in physically demanding environments with potential for overtime pay.

How to get a job at the entry level shipyard?

To get an entry-level shipyard job, candidates should have a high school diploma or equivalent, be physically fit, and demonstrate willingness to learn technical skills. Applying through company websites, staffing agencies, or job boards, and obtaining relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve chances. Prior experience in manual labor or construction can also be beneficial.
What are the most commonly searched types of Shipyard jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Shipyard jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Shipyard jobs in Seattle, WA? For Entry Level Shipyard jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Shipyard jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Shipyard jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Entry Level Shipyard jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Entry Level Shipyard job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Shipyard job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,300 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Helper Trade Adjunct - Fundamentals I

Olympic College

Bremerton, WA • On-site

$1.0K/wk

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Olympic College rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

560th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Salary: $1,000.00 Annually
Location : Bremerton Campus, WA
Job Type: Adjunct Faculty
Job Number: 22-23-A9
Department: Business & Technology
Opening Date: 07/27/2022
Description
Helper Trade Adjunct - Fundamentals I
Salary: $1,000 per credit*
Classification: Adjunct Faculty
Reports to: Dean of Business & Technology
Olympic College is recruiting part-time faculty to teach Helper Trade Fundamentals I at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, in the evenings. The course is part of the Helper Certificate Program designed to develop the general education and technical skills of entry-level employees.
Olympic College seeks applicants who are dedicated to student-centered learning, closing achievement gaps, leading diversity and social justice learning opportunities, and employing data-informed decision-making in their instruction. As an Achieving the Dream institution, the college is part of a network of more than 220 colleges, each committed to helping students achieve their college and career goals.
Essential Functions
  • Teach students about the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, including organizational guiding principles, safety programs, navigation aboard navy vessels, fundamental ship terminology and paperwork, and tools of the trade.
  • Identify individual learning needs of students and make appropriate adjustments in learning environments and activities.
  • Utilize a variety of assessment activities to evaluate student learning and achievement.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • Working knowledge of the PSNS organizational guiding principles and structure, current safety regulations, navigation aboard navy vessels, fundamental ship terminology, and tools of the trade.
  • Associate Degree in Industrial Trades or a related field

Desired Qualifications
  • Experience as a PSNS trade journeyman
  • Bachelor's Degree

Successful Applicants Will
  • Foster a climate of multi-cultural understanding and appreciation
  • Success working with individuals and groups representing a wide range of diverse cultural, geographic, and socioeconomic backgrounds
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills
  • Communicate promptly with students, faculty, and staff
  • Function as a team player
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships
  • An understanding of and commitment to the Olympic College mission, diversity, and a learning-centered climate
  • Uphold Olympic College's values and ethics necessary to maintain a positive climate

Additional Information
Please note that we are unable to sponsor visas for this position. Only candidates who are currently authorized to work in the United States will be considered.
Faculty members must submit official, unopened transcripts to the Human Resources department within 30 days of their employment.
Final salary contract will be determined based on educational qualifications and applicable credits.
This is an adjunct faculty position contracted on a quarterly basis. Placement on the faculty salary schedule will be commensurate with educational background and experience. The salary listed is a range based on per quarter. A collective bargaining agreement exists, and this position is covered by the Association for Higher Education (AHE). Flexibility is required to meet the needs of the department. Evening and/or weekend classes, instruction at satellite Olympic College campuses, and off-campus assignments including travel to clinical sites may be a part of the instructional load.
Adjunct positions at the college are open continuously and reviewed on a quarter-by-quarter basis. Individuals who apply to the applicant pool are considered active for a period of 12 months from the application date and may be contacted when vacancies occur. Applying does not guarantee that a position will be available or offered.
Adjuncts are not eligible for benefits upon their initialhire,Adjunct faculty must work 50 percent of a full-time load for two consecutive quarters to become eligible. Additional hours earned at other SBCTC colleges may count towards this requirement. The list of benefits that may be available after is as follows.
Deferred Compensation Program (DRS) retirement savings plan; TIAA supplemental retirement savings plan, sick leave, Aflac, space available tuition waiver, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), fitness center, reduced rate and priority consideration on-site childcare on a space available.
For more information regarding benefits, please visit our website .
Conditions of Employment
  • Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position. In addition to the background check, candidates will be required to complete the Sexual Misconduct Disclosure Form as required WB HB 2327.

  • The employee must reside in Washington State and within a reasonable distance of the campus to respond to workplace reporting requirements at the time of hiring. Frequent travel to Olympic College campuses or other sites may occur.

How To Apply
To be considered for this position a candidate must apply online through the Olympic College website and submit the following required materials:
  • Olympic College Online Application

  • Resume

  • Cover Letter - in your cover letter describe how your experience sets you apart for this position.

  • Unofficial college transcripts. Official transcripts and copies of mandated certifications will be required of the successful candidate.

EEO Statement
Olympic College values equity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator. Olympic College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, creed, religion, or status as a veteran of war. Prohibited sex discrimination includes sexual harassment include but not limited to unwelcome sexual conduct. Provides reasonable accommodations for qualified students, employees, and applicants with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Federal Rehabilitation Act. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Erin Pohl, Title VII and Title IX, building 5, room 528A, 360-475-7303. Olympic College is a smoke-free/drug-free environment. This recruitment announcement does not reflect the entire job description and can be changed or modified without notice.
Olympic College
Human Resources
1600 Chester Ave Bldg. 5 - 5th Floor
Bremerton, WA 98337
https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/olympic
N/A
01
What is your highest level of education?
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree

02
Describe your area(s) of study.
03
Do you have working knowledge of the PSNS organizational guiding principles and structure, current safety regulations, navigation aboard navy vessels, fundamental ship terminology, and tools of the trade?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have the ability to gain security clearance to work in a controlled industrial area, including the ability to pass a federal criminal background check and proof of identity and documentation of U.S. Citizenship with either a U. S. Passport, state issued U.S. birth certificate, or original naturalization papers?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you possess experience as a Trade Journeyman at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (PSNS)?
  • Yes
  • No

06
If you have trained or taught before, please explain what it was in.
Required Question

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