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Ship Builder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Saronic Technologies

Ship Build Engineer

Franklin, LA · On-site

$104K/yr

This role will provide hands-on experience in traditional ship building and advanced autonomous technologies; driving impact in defense innovation. As a Build Engineer, you'll need interface remotely ...

Mashgin

Builder

Palo Alto, CA

$185K - $275K/yr

We're hiring Builders -- people who can wear every hat and ship products that blow people's minds. Most companies split this across five roles: a PM to decide what to build, a designer to figure out ...

Mashgin

Builder

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

We're hiring Builders - people who can wear every hat and ship products that blow people's minds. Most companies split this across five roles: a PM to decide what to build, a designer to figure out ...

Mashgin

Builder

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

We're hiring Builders - people who can wear every hat and ship products that blow people's minds. Most companies split this across five roles: a PM to decide what to build, a designer to figure out ...

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Ship Builder information

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How much do ship builder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship builder in the United States is $22.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ship Builder vs Ship Fitter?

AspectShip BuilderShip Fitter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or apprenticeshipHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentShipyards, manufacturing plants, construction sitesShipyards, manufacturing plants, construction sites
Job FocusDesign, assembly, and overall construction of shipsInstalling and fitting ship components and structures
Common UsageUsed in shipbuilding industry for overall construction rolesSpecialized in fitting and assembly tasks within shipbuilding

While both Ship Builders and Ship Fitters work in shipyards and require similar credentials, Ship Builders focus on the entire construction and assembly of ships, whereas Ship Fitters specialize in installing and fitting ship components. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the shipbuilding industry.

What does a Ship Builder do?

A Ship Builder is responsible for constructing, assembling, and repairing ships and other marine vessels. This includes tasks such as cutting and shaping metal or wood, welding, fitting components, and installing systems like engines and electrical wiring. Ship Builders often specialize in specific areas, such as hull construction or outfitting, and work closely with engineers and designers to ensure vessels meet safety and quality standards. The job can take place in shipyards, dry docks, or on-site at ports. Ship Builders play a crucial role in the maritime industry by ensuring that vessels are seaworthy and fit for their intended purpose.

What are some common challenges faced by ship builders, and how can new hires best prepare to overcome them?

Ship builders often encounter challenges such as working in physically demanding environments, adapting to evolving safety standards, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. New hires should be prepared for tasks that may require precision, attention to detail, and adherence to strict timelines. Building strong communication skills and a willingness to learn from experienced colleagues can help newcomers adapt more quickly and contribute effectively to large-scale projects.

How do you become a ship builder?

To become a ship builder, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and gain experience through apprenticeships or vocational training in shipbuilding, welding, or carpentry. Developing skills in blueprint reading, metalworking, and familiarity with tools and safety procedures is essential, and some positions may require certifications or technical education in related fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ship Builder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ship Builder, you need a strong background in metalworking, welding, blueprint reading, and marine construction, often supported by a vocational qualification or apprenticeship. Familiarity with CAD software, power tools, and industry safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure the safe, efficient, and precise construction of vessels that meet regulatory and client specifications.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Shipbuilders typically earn less than $3,000 per month without a degree, but related skilled trades such as commercial truck drivers, elevator installers, or HVAC technicians can often reach or exceed that income level with on-the-job training or certifications. Many of these roles require technical skills, physical work, and apprenticeships rather than formal college degrees.

How much money does a shipbuilder make?

Shipbuilders typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled shipbuilders with certifications and specialized tools may earn higher wages, especially in shipbuilding hubs or with advanced skills.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior executives, specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. Certain highly skilled professions like pilots, investment bankers, and tech executives with stock options or bonuses may also reach this level of income, often requiring extensive experience, advanced certifications, or ownership stakes.
More about Ship Builder jobs
What cities are hiring for Ship Builder jobs? Cities with the most Ship Builder job openings:
What states have the most Ship Builder jobs? States with the most job openings for Ship Builder jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ship Builder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Builder jobs are:
Ship Builder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Builder job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,468 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Ship Build Engineer

Ship Build Engineer

Saronic Technologies

Franklin, LA • On-site

$104K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.
Job Overview
We are seeking a talented and motivated Ship Building Engineer to support the design, analysis, and development of autonomous surface vessels. This role will provide hands-on experience in traditional ship building and advanced autonomous technologies; driving impact in defense innovation. As a Build Engineer, you'll need interface remotely with our design engineering teams in Austin, while also owning the hands-on oversight of fabrication, integration, and issue resolution at the shipyard.
Responsibilities
  • Assist in the design, development, analysis, and construction of ASVs
  • Collaborate with other engineers to perform CAD modeling, structural/mechanical/electrical design, and weight management for vessel optimization
  • Operate as liaison between engineering, drafting, and production to resolve challenges that arise during design and construction
  • Identify and resolve non-conformances, lead root cause analysis, and drive resolution via IRBs (Issue Review Boards) and rework plans
  • Lead and coordinate Engineering Change Orders (ECOs)-ensure traceability, communication, implementation, and verification
  • Support the integration of autonomous navigation and control systems into vessel designs
  • Participate in design reviews and brainstorming sessions for new and existing vessel concepts
  • Support documentation, technical writing, and preparation of reports for internal use, regulatory bodies, and client presentations
  • Manage CAD models to document changes made during ship construction
  • Support sea-trials and at-sea testing of ASVs as needed

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
  • Familiarity with maritime industry standards including ABS and coast guard regulations
  • Strong fundamentals in core engineering principles, including structure, mechanical, and electrical systems
  • Experience working in a shipyard or onboard ships
  • Strong knowledge with 2D and 3D CAD software (e.g., Rhino, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, NX)
  • Deep familiarity with interpreting technical drawings, GD&T, weld symbols, and fabrication tolerances
  • Strong communication skills across engineers, technicians, quality teams, and leadership
  • Comfortable working in an industrial shipyard environment

Benefits
  • Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
  • Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
  • Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
  • Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
  • Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
  • Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
  • Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan
  • Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company's success
  • Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office

If this role is based in the United States, it requires access to export-controlled information or items that require "U.S. Person" status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a "U.S. Person": (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

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