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Ship Welding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

Familiarity with OSHA regulations related to shipbuilding. * Welding Tools : Proficient in using fillet gauges, butt gauges, and a six-inch scale. WELDING QUALIFICATIONS: * Must be qualified to weld ...

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

Familiarity with OSHA regulations related to shipbuilding. * Welding Tools : Proficient in using fillet gauges, butt gauges, and a six-inch scale. WELDING QUALIFICATIONS: * Must be qualified to weld ...

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

Familiarity with OSHA regulations related to shipbuilding. * Welding Tools : Proficient in using fillet gauges, butt gauges, and a six-inch scale. WELDING QUALIFICATIONS: * Must be qualified to weld ...

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

Familiarity with OSHA regulations related to shipbuilding. * Welding Tools : Proficient in using fillet gauges, butt gauges, and a six-inch scale. WELDING QUALIFICATIONS: * Must be qualified to weld ...

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

Familiarity with OSHA regulations related to shipbuilding. * Welding Tools : Proficient in using fillet gauges, butt gauges, and a six-inch scale. WELDING QUALIFICATIONS: * Must be qualified to weld ...

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

Familiarity with OSHA regulations related to shipbuilding. * Welding Tools : Proficient in using fillet gauges, butt gauges, and a six-inch scale. WELDING QUALIFICATIONS: * Must be qualified to weld ...

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

Familiarity with OSHA regulations related to shipbuilding. * Welding Tools : Proficient in using fillet gauges, butt gauges, and a six-inch scale. WELDING QUALIFICATIONS: * Must be qualified to weld ...

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

Familiarity with OSHA regulations related to shipbuilding. * Welding Tools : Proficient in using fillet gauges, butt gauges, and a six-inch scale. WELDING QUALIFICATIONS: * Must be qualified to weld ...

ENGINEER WELDING 4

Newport News, VA · On-site

$155K - $195K/yr

E37 WELDING ENGINEERING Entity ... Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes Full-Time Shift: 1st ...

Must possess 5 years of experience welding 5XXX aluminum welding10 years Navy Ship Repair Experience (shipyard,contractor,government)Ability to comprehend and utilize blueprints, sketches, drawings ...

E37 WELDING ENGINEERING Entity ... Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes Full-Time Shift: 1st ...

The role involves multi-pass tack welding and fabrication of structural assemblies, using complex ... Familiarity with shipbuilding industry safety regulations. * Tool Proficiency : Experience using ...

Must possess 5 years of experience welding 5XXX aluminum welding * 10 years Navy Ship Repair Experience (shipyard,contractor,government) * Ability to comprehend and utilize blueprints, sketches ...

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Showing results 1-20

Ship Welding information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$29

$45

How much do ship welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship welding in Virginia is $29.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $33.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges ship welders face when working on vessels, and how can they be managed?

Ship welders often work in tight, confined spaces and may have to weld in awkward positions or in challenging environments, such as outdoors or at heights. These conditions can make it difficult to achieve high-quality welds and can also impact safety. To manage these challenges, shipyards prioritize safety training, provide specialized equipment, and encourage teamwork so welders can support each other during complex tasks. Staying adaptable and maintaining strong communication with supervisors and team members are key to overcoming obstacles and ensuring efficient, safe work.

What is ship welding?

Ship welding is the process of joining metal parts together to construct or repair ships and other marine vessels. This work is typically done in shipyards, where welders use various welding techniques such as MIG, TIG, flux-cored, and arc welding to assemble and maintain the ship’s hull, decks, and internal structures. Ship welders must follow strict safety and quality standards to ensure the vessel's structural integrity and seaworthiness. The job often involves working in challenging environments, both indoors and outdoors, and may require specialized certifications.

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

To thrive as a Ship Welder, you need proficiency in welding techniques (such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding), blueprint reading, and a solid understanding of metal fabrication, often supported by a welding certification or apprenticeship. Familiarity with shipyard safety protocols, specialized welding equipment, and inspection systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for delivering precise work and maintaining safety standards. These skills are vital to ensure structural integrity, meet regulatory requirements, and support efficient shipbuilding or repair operations.

What is the difference between Ship Welding vs Ship Fitting?

AspectShip WeldingShip Fitting
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWS)Fitting and assembly certifications
Work EnvironmentWelding on ship structures, often outdoors or in shipyardsAssembling ship components, often indoors or in shipyards
Job RoleJoining metal parts through welding processesFitting, aligning, and installing ship parts
Industry UsageCommon in shipbuilding and repairCommon in ship construction and maintenance

Ship Welding and Ship Fitting are both essential in shipbuilding, but they focus on different skills. Ship Welding involves joining metal parts through welding techniques, requiring specific certifications. Ship Fitting centers on assembling and fitting ship components, often requiring fitting and blueprint reading skills. Both roles work closely in shipyards and share similar environments, but their primary tasks differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Ship Welding jobs in Virginia? For Ship Welding jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ship Welding jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Welding jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Ship Welding job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,429 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Position: Welder
Job Type: Full-time
Reports to: Overhead Contract Supervisor
Location: Newport News, VA (Huntington Ingalls Shipyard) and NOB Norfolk Naval Base
Mills Marine
A growing ship repair company focused on repairing and building ships to support the Military's Mission. We are committed to providing Safe, Quality and Process Driven services for our customers in the ship new construction and repair.
Position Summary
As a Welder, you will be responsible for safely performing a variety of welding and metal fabrication tasks, including:
Read and interpret blueprints, layouts, diagrams, work orders, welding procedures, and verbal instructions.
Perform high-quality welds using various welding processes, including:
SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding)
GMAW (MIG/Gas Metal Arc Welding)
FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding)
Complete welds in flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions.
Prepare metal surfaces by removing rust, slag, scale, grease, moisture, and other contaminants before welding.
Set up and operate manual and semi-automatic welding equipment, selecting proper electrodes and materials for each job.
Perform grinding, joint preparation, edge preparation, burning, washing, and fit-up for welding and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).
Operate oxy-acetylene torches, air arc gouging equipment, weld wire gas systems, stick welding equipment, pipe flange welding equipment, and flux-core (inner shield and dual shield) processes.
Repair cracked or damaged metal components and fabricate new assemblies using manual and machine welding techniques.
Clean finished welds using grinders, wire brushes, and other appropriate tools.
Read and understand Chemist and Competent Person reports to ensure work areas are safe for hot work operations.
Mark and identify materials with job numbers, piece marks, and other required information.
Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including hard hats, safety glasses, steel-toe boots, and respirators when required.
Maintain a safe, organized work environment.
Follow all company safety procedures and quality standards.
Qualified candidates should possess:
Experience as a First Class or Second Class Welder, preferably in ship repair, marine, or industrial environments.
Ability to successfully perform multi-pass fillet and butt welds in all positions using SMAW, GMAW, and FCAW processes.
Working knowledge of oxy-acetylene, electric arc, MIG, TIG, and other welding techniques.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, sketches, welding symbols, and templates.
Experience using hand tools and equipment associated with the welding trade.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality workmanship.
Reliable attendance and a strong work ethic.
Ability to work in confined spaces and enter manholes when required.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Technical or vocational welding training is preferred.
Ability to obtain a DBIDS credential is a plus.
Pay:
Competitive and based on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
At Mills Marine & Ship Repair, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family.
Our benefits include:
Full-time employment
Competitive pay
Paid accrued vacation
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Company-paid life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance
Voluntary life and disability insurance
Legal Resource benefit
Opportunities for career growth and long-term employment
Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements.
Why Join Mills Marine?
Perform additional duties as assigned.
If you take pride in producing quality work, value safety, and have experience in the ship repair or marine industry, we'd love to hear from you.
This is an excellent opportunity to build a rewarding career. At Mills Marine, you'll become part of a skilled team dedicated to quality craftsmanship, safety, and customer satisfaction. We invest in our employees by providing stable work, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional growth in the marine and ship repair industry.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Mills Marine is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.
Proud V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) Certified Employer is proud to be a Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Certified Employer committed to hiring talented individuals who value safety, teamwork, and excellence. If you're dependable, safety-focused, and ready to work in a fast-paced shipyard environment, we encourage you to apply.