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Ship Builder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zobility

Skid or Crate Builder

Roselle, IL · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

Individual will construct custom crates and pallets to ship items to destination, shipping ... Wood working experience and ability to build custom crates. * Working knowledge of powered and hand ...

Ameri-Force

Stage Builder

Newport News, VA

$20.66 - $27.31/hr

Stage Builder Location: Newport News, VA Job Type: Full-Time / Contract Pay Range: $20.66 - $27.31 ... shipbuilding and repair projects. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working at heights, in ...

Ameri-Force

Stage Builder

Newport News, VA · On-site

$20.66 - $27.31/hr

Stage Builder Location: Newport News, VA Job Type: Full-Time / Contract Pay Range: $20.66 - $27.31 ... shipbuilding and repair projects. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working at heights, in ...

Ameri-Force

Stage Builder

Newport News, VA · On-site

$20.66 - $27.31/hr

Stage Builder Location:Newport News, VA Job Type:Full-Time / Contract Pay Range:$20.66 - $27.31 ... shipbuilding and repair projects. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working at heights, in ...

Dave's Complete Auto

Engine Builder

Centerville, UT · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

We are the most well equipped shop in the state of Utah, and build engines for install in our shop, plus crate engines that we ship out across the country. We stay busy, as we're a well established ...

HTI

Inside Machinist - Naval Shipbuilding

Goose Creek, SC · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

Inside Machinist - Naval Shipbuilding Build the Future of Naval Innovation This organization leads the way in building nuclear-powered vessels for the U.S. Navy. With a team of more than 25,000 ...

Xometry

AI Builder Fellowship

Waltham, MA · Hybrid

$105K - $125K/yr

You want to ship to production every single week. What We Expect * You've built and deployed ... Submit Your Build: July 9 - July 26 Click the link below to view the application. Drop a 5-minute ...

Xometry

AI Builder Fellowship

North Bethesda, MD · Hybrid

$105K - $125K/yr

You want to ship to production every single week. What We Expect * You've built and deployed ... Submit Your Build: July 9 - July 26 Click the link below to view the application. Drop a 5-minute ...

HII

$83K - $85K/yr

Fitters also build in-place all interior structures, hatches, doors, bulkheads, etc., to complete all the steel work in the ship. Fitters at NNS attend and become qualified through the shipyard ...

HII

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Newport News, VA · On-site

$83K - $85K/yr

Fitters also build in-place all interior structures, hatches, doors, bulkheads, etc., to complete all the steel work in the ship. Fitters at NNS attend and become qualified through the shipyard ...

HII

Shipfitter - Hiring Now

Newport News, VA · On-site

$83K - $85K/yr

Fitters also build in-place all interior structures, hatches, doors, bulkheads, etc., to complete all the steel work in the ship. Fitters at NNS attend and become qualified through the shipyard ...

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Ship Builder information

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$13

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$31

How much do ship builder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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.
Skid or Crate Builder

Skid or Crate Builder

Zobility

Roselle, IL • On-site

$22 - $23/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

  • Role is responsible for managing the shipping process of critical finished goods.
  • Individual will help manage the larger LTL and full truck outbound shipments to customers and Client affiliates.
  • Individual will construct custom crates and pallets to ship items to destination, shipping worldwide.
  • Fork truck and crane certified (Client will provide training), pneumatic staple/nail gun, circular saw, and familiarity/comfort around lumber is a must.

Responsibilities:

  • Good communication skills with internal and external customers.
  • Fabricates wooden crates, pallets or boxes, using woodworking hand tools and power tools. Pack and prepare for shipment items such as machinery, strapping heads and other large or odd-shaped products.
  • Read shipping notices and other specifications and inspects product prior to shipping.
  • Transport large machines throughout the warehouse using forklift truck
  • Works closely with manager and Supply Chain on prioritizing shipments.
  • Control the inventory of crating materials- such as pallets, lumbar, building supplies, etc.
  • Follow company policies and all safety rules.
  • Keep work area clean and organized.
  • Read and understand the different types of customer orders which includes the customer number, customer's purchase order number, ship to address, bill to address, specified routing, print date and time, all comments, line item number, part's description, location of part, quantity ordered, quantity shipping and quantity backordered.
  • Know the different requirements for various shipping [s]priority[/s] priorities including: expedited, international, domestic, distributors, servicemembers and tool repair center customers.
  • Provide office personnel with accurate dimensions and weight for all LTL and truckload orders.
  • Consolidate outgoing orders according to ship schedule.
  • Sign off on incoming freight as needed.
  • Load and unload freight as needed.
  • Utilize pallet jacks or drive fork trucks for routine daily work.

Requirements:

  • 2-3 Years of experience in similar role.
  • Previous Fork Truck experience- a plus. Ability to drive a fork truck after training a must.
  • Wood working experience and ability to build custom crates.
  • Working knowledge of powered and hand tools.
  • Basic understanding of computer, UPS Worldship, Fed Ex, DHL websites.
  • Current ERP is Microsoft Navision, experience with previous ERPs a plus.

Education:

  • High School Diploma


We offer attractive, competitive compensation and benefits including, medical, dental, 401k, short-term disability, AD&D, tuition reimbursement, and more. If you take pride in your work and are committed to personal and professional success, let's talk. Please visit www.zobility.com to learn more.

Zobility is RGBSI's workforce management and staffing division. RGBSI is a multi-national corporation headquartered in Troy, MI with branches throughout the USA, Canada, Germany, and India.

Company Description

Zobility is RGBSI's workforce management and staffing division. RGBSI is a multi-national corporation headquartered in Troy, MI with branches throughout the USA, Canada, Germany, and India.