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Ship Insulation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tidewater Staffing

Insulator

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$40K - $57K/yr

... of insulation of any component onboard ships in various stages of repair and modernization. * Measures, cuts and/or fabricates materials for insulation application to bulkheads, overheads, piping ...

Tidewater Staffing

Insulator

Chesapeake, VA

$20.50 - $26.75/hr

... of insulation of any component onboard ships in various stages of repair and modernization. * Measures, cuts and/or fabricates materials for insulation application to bulkheads, overheads, piping ...

Tidewater Staffing

Insulator

Chesapeake, VA

$20.50 - $26.75/hr

... of insulation of any component onboard ships in various stages of repair and modernization. * Measures, cuts and/or fabricates materials for insulation application to bulkheads, overheads, piping ...

Tidewater Staffing

Insulator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$40K - $57K/yr

... of insulation of any component onboard ships in various stages of repair and modernization. * Measures, cuts and/or fabricates materials for insulation application to bulkheads, overheads, piping ...

Tidewater Staffing

Insulator

Chesapeake, VA

$20.50 - $26.75/hr

... of insulation of any component onboard ships in various stages of repair and modernization. * Measures, cuts and/or fabricates materials for insulation application to bulkheads, overheads, piping ...

Tidewater Staffing

Insulator

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$40K - $57K/yr

... of insulation of any component onboard ships in various stages of repair and modernization. * Measures, cuts and/or fabricates materials for insulation application to bulkheads, overheads, piping ...

Tidewater Staffing

Insulator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$40K - $57K/yr

... of insulation of any component onboard ships in various stages of repair and modernization. * Measures, cuts and/or fabricates materials for insulation application to bulkheads, overheads, piping ...

Global 1st Flagship

Marine Insulator

Portsmouth, VA

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Apply, remove, and repair insulation and lagging on piping, machinery, and shipboard structures. Responsibilities : * Install thermal, sound, and protective insulation materials. * Shape and secure ...

Global 1st Flagship

Marine Insulator

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

Apply, remove, and repair insulation and lagging on piping, machinery, and shipboard structures. Responsibilities : * Install thermal, sound, and protective insulation materials. * Shape and secure ...

Global 1st Flagship

Marine Insulator

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

Apply, remove, and repair insulation and lagging on piping, machinery, and shipboard structures. Responsibilities : * Install thermal, sound, and protective insulation materials. * Shape and secure ...

Cleaver-Brooks

Assembler - Insulation/Jacket

Thomasville, GA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Insulation and Jacketing of Boilers * Tubing and Hydro of Boilers * Must know, understand and abide ... or ship parts; average weight 10 pounds, parts/boxes of materials range from >1 pound up to 65 ...

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Ship Insulation information

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How much do ship insulation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship insulation in the United States is $20.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an insulator do at the shipyard?

A ship insulator applies thermal and acoustic insulation materials to ships' pipes, tanks, and hulls to improve energy efficiency and reduce noise. They use tools like spray guns, knives, and protective gear, often working in confined or outdoor environments and following safety standards. The role requires knowledge of insulation materials and proper installation techniques.

Do insulation techs make good money?

Insulation technicians, including ship insulation specialists, typically earn competitive wages that can increase with experience, certifications, and specialization. The job often offers steady employment, with potential for overtime and benefits, especially in industrial or maritime settings. Wages vary by region and employer, but generally align with skilled trade standards.

What are some common challenges faced by ship insulation technicians on the job?

Ship insulation technicians often face challenges such as working in confined or awkward spaces, managing exposure to varying temperatures, and adhering to strict safety protocols due to the presence of hazardous materials. The work may involve installation, repair, or removal of insulation in engine rooms, bulkheads, and piping systems, which requires attention to detail and physical stamina. Teamwork and communication are essential, as technicians frequently collaborate with engineers, welders, and other shipyard staff to ensure insulation meets regulatory standards and project timelines.

What is the difference between Ship Insulation vs Ship Carpenter?

AspectShip InsulationShip Carpenter
Primary RoleInstalling thermal, acoustic, and fireproof insulation on shipsConstructing, repairing, and maintaining ship structures and interiors
Required SkillsInsulation installation, knowledge of materials, safety proceduresCarpentry, woodworking, blueprint reading
Work EnvironmentShipyards, onboard ships, industrial settingsShipyards, workshops, onboard ships
CertificationsOSHA safety, industry-specific insulation certificationsCarpentry licenses, safety certifications

While both roles work in shipbuilding and maintenance environments, Ship Insulation specialists focus on installing insulation materials to improve ship safety and efficiency, whereas Ship Carpenters handle structural and interior construction tasks. Both require safety training and industry-specific skills, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

How to become an insulation worker?

To become an insulation worker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program that lasts 3-4 years. Skills in measuring, cutting, and installing insulation materials, along with knowledge of safety procedures and tools, are essential; some employers may require certifications in safety or specific insulation techniques.

What are ship insulation workers?

Ship insulation workers are skilled tradespeople who install and maintain insulation materials on ships and marine vessels. Their work involves applying insulation to pipes, ducts, bulkheads, and other ship components to control temperature, reduce noise, and prevent condensation. This helps improve energy efficiency and ensures the safety and comfort of the vessel's crew and equipment. Insulation workers must follow safety regulations and use specialized materials suited for marine environments.

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

To thrive as a Ship Insulation Worker, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and knowledge of insulation materials and safety standards, often gained through vocational training or apprenticeship. Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and protective equipment is essential to efficiently install and maintain insulation systems. Good teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help ensure projects are completed safely and accurately. These abilities are critical for maintaining ship safety, energy efficiency, and compliance with maritime regulations.

Is insulation a blue collar job?

Ship insulation is generally considered a blue collar job, involving manual labor, technical skills, and working in industrial or maritime environments. Workers often perform tasks such as installing, repairing, and maintaining insulation materials, sometimes requiring certifications and physical endurance.
More about Ship Insulation jobs
What job categories do people searching Ship Insulation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Insulation jobs are:
Ship Insulation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Insulation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,258 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Insulator

Insulator

Tidewater Staffing

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

$40K - $57K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking Insulators for work in Newport News, VA, Chesapeake, VA, Portsmouth, VA, and Norfolk, VA shipyards.
Responsibilities:

  • Insulators are responsible for the installation and/or removal of insulation of any component onboard ships in various stages of repair and modernization.
  • Measures, cuts and/or fabricates materials for insulation application to bulkheads, overheads, piping, ducts, machinery and equipment to reduce loss or absorption of heat, prevent moisture condensation, and to deaden sound.
  • Performs related tasks as assigned some of which may become essential to the position.

Required Skills and Education:

  • 1-5 years' experience in all facets of lagging and insulation.
  • Must have knowledge of many different types of insulation and its appropriate use.
  • Basic math and measuring skills; fabrication and installation of removable covers; reading specifications and blueprint; cutting miters for all piping insulation.
  • Must comply with Company safety rules and OSHA standards.
  • Must be able to use hand tools, power tools and shop machinery safely and efficiently.
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About Tidewater Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.” Our deep industry experience and established local presence allow us to maintain a consistent, updated, and expansive network of skilled candidates, and our proprietary digital onboarding process. When you partner with Tidewater Staffing, you get employees who are trained, screened, supplied, and access to our proprietary digital onboarding process.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Virginia Beach, VA, US

Year founded

1992

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