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Ship Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Ship Fitter will lay out, fit, align, and assemble prefabricated cast and forged components prior to welding, soldering, brazing, or bonding. This role requires precision work to close tolerances ...

The Ship Fitter will lay out, fit, align, and assemble prefabricated cast and forged components prior to welding, soldering, brazing, or bonding. This role requires precision work to close tolerances ...

Pipe Welder ESR

Everett, WA · On-site

$33.90 - $35.70/hr

Everett Ship Repair is the Pacific Northwest Premier Ship Repair Facility. Founded in 2019, Everett ... Perform welds in environment using primarily stick welding with 6010, 5P+, Fillet passes, 7018 ...

Ship Fitter

Tampa, FL · On-site

$29/hr

Must know Ship terminology * Must read blue prints to lay out and fabricate parts for ships * Must ... Must pass fillet weld test using 7018 rods * Must pass drug test and E-Verify * Must be able to ...

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 ...

Pipe Welder ESR

Everett, WA

$33.90 - $35.70/hr

Everett Ship Repair is the Pacific Northwest Premier Ship Repair Facility. Founded in 2019, Everett ... Perform welds in environment using primarily stick welding with 6010, 5P+, Fillet passes, 7018 ...

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 ...

ENGINEER WELDING 2

Newport News, VA · On-site

$96K - $121K/yr

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

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

ENGINEER WELDING 3

Newport News, VA · On-site

$124K - $156K/yr

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

Showing results 21-40

Ship Welding information

See salary details

$14

$29

$45

How much do ship welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship welding in the United States is $29.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $34.13 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.

More about Ship Welding jobs

What cities are hiring for Ship Welding jobs?

Cities with the most Ship Welding job openings:

What states have the most Ship Welding jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ship Welding jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Ship Welding jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Ship Welding jobs are:

Infographic showing various Ship Welding job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,961 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Ship Fitter
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Ship Fitter to support shipyard fabrication and assembly operations. The Ship Fitter will lay out, fit, align, and assemble prefabricated cast and forged components prior to welding, soldering, brazing, or bonding. This role requires precision work to close tolerances, strict adherence to safety standards, and the ability to perform in physically demanding shipyard environments.
Prior shipyard experience is required.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lay out, fit, align, and assemble prefabricated components prior to welding operations
  • Perform fitting and machining tasks including straightening, grinding, burring, drilling, reaming, and countersinking
  • Read and interpret general instructions, blueprints, and engineering drawings
  • Select appropriate equipment and set up materials for welding and fabrication
  • Repair or rework parts distorted during welding to restore required tolerances
  • Monitor and verify quality in accordance with statistical process control and company procedures
  • Maintain compliance with all OSHA, shipyard, and site-specific safety regulations
  • Consistently use required PPE and follow safe work practices

Required Qualifications
  • 1-5 years of prior Ship Fitter experience in a shipyard environment (required)
  • Experience working with cast and forged components
  • Ability to work to close tolerances and strict quality standards
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Safety & Training Requirements
Candidates must be trained, qualified, or able to obtain qualification in the following:
  • Confined Space Training (OSHA 29 CFR 1915 Subpart B)
  • Hazard Communication (OSHA 29 CFR 1915.1200 / 1910.1200)
  • Respirator training, medical clearance, and fit testing
  • Must be qualified on MSA Comfo Classic Respirator (daily use may be required)
  • Fall Protection / 4-D Body Harness training
  • Vertical & Horizontal Lifelines and Beam Clamp systems
  • Equipment must comply with ANSI Z359.1 standards
  • PPE and Hearing Conservation training
  • OSHA 29 CFR 1915 Subpart I and 29 CFR 1910.95
  • Audiometric testing with documented results
  • Hexavalent Chromium medical examination and clearance

Required PPE - Charleston Location
The following PPE is mandatory:
  • MSA Comfo Classic Half/Full Face Respirator
    OR
  • 3M Speedglas PAPR 9100MP Adflo (H&S approval required)
  • 3M DBI-SALA ExoFit X100 Full Body Harness
  • Nano-Lok Edge Twin-Leg Self-Retracting Lanyards
  • MSA Skull Gard Hard Hat (appropriate size)
  • Welding shield compatible with MSA Skull Gard hard hat
  • 3M PELTOR Optime 95 Earmuffs (earplugs not permitted)
  • Kleenguard Calico safety glasses (ANSI Z87 compliant)
  • Flame-resistant coveralls with long sleeves
  • 8" steel-toe safety boots or leather safety shoes with spats
  • Full welding jacket and leather welding shield bib

Work Environment
  • Physically demanding work including standing, bending, lifting, and working in confined spaces
  • Exposure to temperature and humidity extremes based on work location
  • Daily respirator use may be required