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Ship Maintenance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Logistics Specialist/Ship Maintenance Support Position Location: Norfolk, VA Position Details: Full Time Description ITMS, Inc. is seeking an experienced Logistics Specialist to join our team of ...

Ship Superintendent

North Kingstown, RI · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Define and maintain production plans for all assigned ship repair projects. * Interpret blueprints, drawings, technical manuals, and process instructions. * Develop project work plans with input from ...

Engineer-Jr.

Washington, DC · On-site

$146K/yr

* SEA 21, NAVSEA's Director of Surface Ship Maintenance, Modernization, and Sustainment is seeking professional support services (PSS) to support the Government's existing organization, personnel ...

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Ship Maintenance information

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$11

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$27

How much do ship maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship maintenance in the United States is $18.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I work on a ship with no experience?

Ship maintenance roles often require some technical skills and knowledge of safety procedures, but entry-level positions may be available for those with little or no experience. On-the-job training is common, and obtaining certifications such as safety or technical courses can improve chances of employment. Prior experience in related fields or hands-on skills can be beneficial but are not always mandatory for entry-level positions.

What are some common challenges faced in a ship maintenance role, and how can they be managed effectively?

Ship maintenance professionals often encounter challenges such as working in harsh weather conditions, managing tight maintenance schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as tasks are typically coordinated with engineers, deck crews, and port authorities. Staying organized, following preventive maintenance routines, and participating in ongoing training can help address these challenges and support a safe, efficient work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Ship Maintenance, and why are they important?

To thrive in Ship Maintenance, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, marine engineering principles, and relevant safety standards, often supported by vocational training or certifications in marine maintenance. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, maintenance management systems, and compliance with maritime regulations such as SOLAS is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for identifying issues and ensuring efficient repairs. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining vessel safety, operational reliability, and regulatory compliance in a demanding maritime environment.

What's the highest paid maintenance job?

In ship maintenance, the highest paid roles are often senior technicians, maintenance managers, or specialized engineers such as marine engineers or electrical engineers, especially those with certifications and extensive experience. These positions typically command higher salaries due to their technical expertise and leadership responsibilities in maintaining complex vessel systems.

What is ship maintenance?

Ship maintenance refers to the routine, preventive, and corrective activities carried out to ensure that a vessel remains in safe, efficient, and seaworthy condition. This includes inspecting, repairing, and servicing the ship's machinery, hull, electrical systems, and equipment. Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, extends the vessel’s lifespan, and ensures compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Ship maintenance can be performed both while the vessel is in port or at sea, depending on the nature of the tasks required.

What are the 4 types of ship maintenance?

Ship maintenance typically includes four main types: corrective maintenance, which repairs equipment after failure; preventive maintenance, scheduled tasks to prevent breakdowns; predictive maintenance, using condition monitoring to anticipate issues; and condition-based maintenance, performed based on real-time data. These types help ensure vessel safety, reliability, and compliance with maritime standards.

What is the highest paying job on a ship?

The highest paying jobs on a ship are typically senior officers such as the captain or chief engineer, who oversee operations and safety. These roles require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and they often command the highest salaries among maritime crew members.

What is the difference between Ship Maintenance vs Marine Technician?

AspectShip MaintenanceMarine Technician
CertificationsShipyard or maritime maintenance certificationsMarine technician certifications, such as ASE Marine Certification
Work EnvironmentShipyards, docks, onboard shipsMarine repair shops, ships, offshore platforms
Industry UsageMaritime industry, shipping companiesMarine service providers, boat manufacturers

Ship Maintenance and Marine Technician roles both involve repairing and maintaining vessels, often requiring similar certifications and working environments. However, Ship Maintenance typically refers to broader tasks related to ship upkeep in shipyards or onboard ships, while Marine Technicians focus more on diagnosing and repairing marine engines and systems. Both roles are essential in the maritime industry and often overlap in skills and responsibilities.

More about Ship Maintenance jobs
What cities are hiring for Ship Maintenance jobs? Cities with the most Ship Maintenance job openings:
What states have the most Ship Maintenance jobs? States with the most job openings for Ship Maintenance jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ship Maintenance jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Maintenance jobs are:
Infographic showing various Ship Maintenance job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,013 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
SkillBridge Navy Maintenance University Instructor (Transitioning Military)

SkillBridge Navy Maintenance University Instructor (Transitioning Military)

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Norfolk, VA

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Are you seeking hands-on experience in industry? Join AMERICAN SYSTEMS as a Maintenance University(MU) Instructor Intern in Norfolk, VA. Maintenance University provides maintenance management and integrated maintenance process briefs and training courses structured to address the concerns of each shipboard organizational tier as well as those of off-ship Maintenance Team members. The primary focus is understanding the basics, how policy transitions to process, and how existing processes help ship’s force and the Maintenance Team to better identify, document, plan and manage work using available AIS tools and 3-M processes. In addition, MU shares best practices and lessons learned to sustain common practices across the Surface Force.


As a MU Instructor Intern, you will gain:

  • Knowledge of Navy & Surface Force Maintenance Policies & Processes
  • Knowledge of required 3M Software and tools to manage Shipboard Maintenance
  • Understanding the significance of CSMP accuracy to improve overall material condition
  • Understanding the significance of Configuration Management
  • Understanding the 3-M duties & responsibilities of all shipboard positions
  • Expert 3-M system knowledge and understanding
  • Collaborate with a team of motivated, talented, and supportive professionals
  • Develop instructional materials for course delivery in a classroom setting
  • Develop instructional materials for course delivery in a virtual classroom setting
  • Read key references, including the Joint Fleet Maintenance Manual, CNSF 4790.1, and others
  • Develop familiarity with current surface ship maintenance guidance across germane references
  • Assist with instructional delivery, both in person and virtual (online)
  • Tour Type Commander and make acquaintance with germane points of contact
  • Tour Regional Maintenance Center, as applicable, and make acquaintance with germane points of contact
  • Accompany instructors for Surface Ship Availability Briefs
  • Develop familiarity with 3M 365, SKED, OMMS, AWN, and other applicable electronic surface ship maintenance programs and interfaces
  • Develop 2-Kilo/Work Notification writing and techniques
  • Develop familiarity with visual aids, specifically Daily Visual Management Tool

  • Eligible for SkillBridge Participation: Candidates must meet Department of Defense (DOD) SkillBridge eligibility guidelines. If you’re unsure of your eligibility, please visit the SkillBridge website or consult your Unit Commander or Transition Coordinator.
  • Military Service: Must have 180 days of military service or fewer remaining prior to your date of discharge and at least 180 continuous days of active military service. Must have approval from your unit commander to participate in SkillBridge.
  • Security Clearance: Active Secret Clearance required.
  • Availability: Must be available to complete the full internship duration (standard length: 180 days).
  • Military Background: Preferred: Prior military experience in Information Technology (IT), Cryptologic System Maintenance, or related technical specialties.
  • U.S. Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship Required.

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