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Shipboard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We have an exciting new opportunity and are currently looking for an experienced Shipboard Plumber to provide support to U.S. Navy vessels in the Kittery, ME area. This position offers a competitive ...

Shipboard Electrician

Norfolk, VA

$23.25 - $29.25/hr

Shipboard Electrician (Norfolk, VA) Position Summary: As a Shipboard Motor and Motor Controller Support Electrician, you will provide maintenance and technical support of shipboard electrical systems ...

This is a International Shipboard Position on cruise ships The Company OneSpaWorld is a worldwide provider and innovator in the fields of beauty, wellness, rejuvenation and transformation across the ...

This is a International Shipboard Position on cruise ships The Company OneSpaWorld is a worldwide provider and innovator in the fields of beauty, wellness, rejuvenation and transformation across the ...

Inspect shipboard structures to identify obstructions and avoid compromising structural integrity during pipe installation. Locate and mark positions for pipe installations, pipe connections, and ...

This is a International Shipboard Position on cruise ships The Company OneSpaWorld is a worldwide provider and innovator in the fields of beauty, wellness, rejuvenation and transformation across the ...

We have an exciting new opportunity and are currently looking for an experienced Shipboard Plumber to provide support to U.S. Navy vessels in the Hampton Roads, VA area. This position offers a ...

This is a International Shipboard Position on cruise ships The Company OneSpaWorld is a worldwide provider and innovator in the fields of beauty, wellness, rejuvenation and transformation across the ...

This is a International Shipboard Position on cruise ships The Company OneSpaWorld is a worldwide provider and innovator in the fields of beauty, wellness, rejuvenation and transformation across the ...

Shipboard Electrician II

Newport News, VA

$21.75 - $27.50/hr

Epsilon Systems Solutions is seeking a full-time Shipboard Electrician II in Newport News, VA Summary: This position will provide day-to-day electrical work onboard surface ships at the Newport News ...

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Shipboard information

See salary details

$13

$30

$48

How much do shipboard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipboard in the United States is $30.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are shipboard jobs?

Shipboard jobs refer to positions that are performed on a ship, such as cruise ships, cargo vessels, or naval ships. These roles can include a wide range of responsibilities, from navigation and engineering to hospitality and entertainment. Common shipboard job titles include deck officers, engineers, chefs, housekeeping staff, and cruise activity directors. Working shipboard often involves spending extended periods at sea, living and working with a crew, and adhering to strict safety regulations. These jobs can offer unique travel opportunities and valuable maritime experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a shipboard position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a shipboard position, you need strong maritime knowledge, relevant certifications such as STCW, and practical seamanship skills, often acquired through maritime academies or specialized training. Familiarity with navigation systems, safety equipment, and shipboard management software is typically required. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for handling the dynamic and multicultural ship environment. These skills ensure safe and efficient vessel operations, compliance with regulations, and effective collaboration among crew members.

What are some common challenges faced by shipboard crew members, and how can they be managed effectively?

Shipboard crew members often face challenges such as long periods away from home, adjusting to confined living quarters, and working in a highly structured environment with rotating shifts. Effective communication, strong teamwork, and maintaining a positive attitude are key to managing these challenges. Many shipping companies also provide support services and encourage regular rest periods to help crew members sustain their well-being and performance during voyages.

What is the difference between Shipboard vs Deckhand?

AspectShipboardDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Marine CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Marine Certifications
Work EnvironmentOn ships, including cargo ships, cruise ships, and tankersOn ships, primarily on deck, assisting with maintenance and cargo
Job ResponsibilitiesGeneral duties on the vessel, safety procedures, assisting crewHandling lines, cleaning, maintenance, cargo operations
Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, cruise linesMaritime, shipping, cruise lines

Both Shipboard and Deckhand roles require similar certifications and work in maritime environments. While Shipboard is a broad term encompassing all crew members on a vessel, a Deckhand is a specific position focused on deck operations and maintenance. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right roles in the maritime industry.

More about Shipboard jobs
What cities are hiring for Shipboard jobs? Cities with the most Shipboard job openings:
What states have the most Shipboard jobs? States with the most job openings for Shipboard jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Shipboard jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Shipboard jobs are:
Shipboard Plumber

Shipboard Plumber

United Support Services

Kittery, ME โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

United Support Services, Inc., founded in 2003, is an innovative engineering and technology business headquartered in San Diego, CA. We have an exciting new opportunity and are currently looking for an experienced Shipboard Plumber to provide support to U.S. Navy vessels in the Kittery, ME area. This position offers a competitive salary and unique opportunity to perform various shipboard duties. Military Veterans highly encouraged to apply!
Duties and Responsibilities
โ€ข Assemble, install, and repair pipes, fittings, and fixtures associated with heating, water, and drainage systems in accordance with specifications and plumbing codes.
โ€ข Study plans, blueprints, and working drawings to determine required materials, work aids, and installation sequences.
โ€ข Inspect shipboard structures to identify obstructions and avoid compromising structural integrity during pipe installation.
โ€ข Locate and mark positions for pipe installations, pipe connections, and passage holes in walls and floors using appropriate measuring and leveling tools.
โ€ข Cut openings in walls and floors to accommodate pipe and pipe fittings using hand and power tools.
โ€ข Cut, thread, bend, fabricate, and install piping systems using pipe cutters, cutting torches, threading machines, and bending equipment.
โ€ข Assemble and install valves, pipe fittings, and pipes composed of steel, stainless steel, brass, plastic, and other materials.
โ€ข Join piping systems using screws, bolts, fittings, solder, plastic solvent, and caulked joints.
โ€ข Fill pipe systems with water or air and conduct pressure testing to identify leaks and ensure system integrity.
โ€ข Install and repair plumbing fixtures including sinks, commodes, bathtubs, water heaters, hot water tanks, garbage disposal units, and dishwashers.
โ€ข Repair plumbing systems by replacing washers, repairing burst pipes, and clearing clogged drains.
โ€ข Weld holding fixtures to steel structural members as required.
โ€ข Utilize industry-specific hand tools, portable power tools, and manually operated machine tools.
โ€ข Follow all applicable safety requirements including hot work operations, confined space procedures, lock-out/tag-out, fire prevention, and damage control efforts.
โ€ข Respond to urgent calls outside of regular working hours as required by contract obligations.
โ€ข Additional tasks and duties may be assigned.
Required Experience:
โ€ข Shipboard plumbing experience required.
โ€ข Messing & Berthing Barge Experience preferred.
โ€ข Working knowledge of accepted plumbing trade methods, techniques, tools, and equipment.
โ€ข Basic understanding of U.S. Navy ship repair activities and shipboard safety procedures.
โ€ข Understanding of U.S. Navy ship layout, configuration, control plates, placards, markings, and symbols.
โ€ข Knowledge of U.S. Navy plumbing equipment and systems.
โ€ข Ability to obtain and maintain a confidential or higher security clearance, passport, and base access credentials.
โ€ข Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, policies, guidelines, repair standards, and craft plans.
โ€ข Experience supporting shipboard plumbing and repair operations aboard Navy vessels.
โ€ข Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
โ€ข Experience troubleshooting plumbing systems and selecting appropriate repair techniques and materials.
โ€ข Knowledge of supply, disposal, and utility system installation and operation.
โ€ข Ability to follow layout sheets, floor plans, circuit schematics, and manufacturer technical guidance.
Qualifications:
โ€ข Must have Security Clearance.
โ€ข Must have Drivers License.
ADA Notations:
The physical job requirement involves, but is not limited to, walking, reaching, bending-over, concentration in the presence of noise, lifting items up to 50 lbs., and traversing narrow passageways, climbing ladders/stairs, and operating in confined spaces onboard naval vessels, barges, and in buildings.
Benefits:
โ€ข 401(k)
โ€ข 401(k) matching
โ€ข Dental insurance
โ€ข Employee assistance program
โ€ข Health insurance
โ€ข Life insurance
โ€ข Paid time off
โ€ข Retirement plan
โ€ข Vision insurance
Special Conditions:
This employment position is CONTINGENT upon a contract award to employer for the required services, completion of applicant's favorable employment background investigation, and the ability of applicant to obtain a military base access card and security clearance at all times during the period of employment.
Job Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt
United Support Services, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer.