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Shipbuilder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Philly Shipyard

Shipbuilder

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Frequently reads shipbuilding blueprints and other technical documents * Frequently responsible for basic plate and stiffener assembly * Frequently responsible for large panel and double bottom ...

Philly Shipyard

Shipbuilder

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Frequently reads shipbuilding blueprints and other technical documents * Frequently responsible for basic plate and stiffener assembly * Frequently responsible for large panel and double bottom ...

HKA Enterprises

Shipbuilder 2- Local

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$28/hr

Minimum 5 years' experience in Shipyards with shipbuilding production or ship repair Businesses with manufacturing of heavy steel structures Production of pressure vessels, boilers and other similar ...

Hutco Inc

Ship Fitter

Harvey, LA · On-site

$28/hr

Ship Fitter Job Location: Harvey, LA Hutco Branch: Harvey, LA Rate of Pay: Up to $28.00 per hour (based on experience) Hutco Inc. is seeking first-class ship fitters for shipyards located in Harvey ...

Hutco Inc

Ship Fitter

Port Allen, LA

$23 - $27/hr

Ship Fitter Job Location: Port Allen, LA Hutco Branch: Harvey, LA Rate of Pay: $23.00 to $27.00 per hour (based on experience) Hutco Inc. is seeking first-class ship fitters for shipyards located in ...

Hutco Inc

Ship Fitter

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Ship Fitter Job Location: Port Allen, LA Hutco Branch: Harvey, LA Rate of Pay: $23.00 to $27.00 per hour (based on experience) Hutco Inc. is seeking first-class ship fitters for shipyards located in ...

Hutco Inc

Ship Fitter

Harvey, LA · On-site

$28/hr

Ship Fitter Job Location: Harvey, LA Hutco Branch: Harvey, LA Rate of Pay: Up to $28.00 per hour (based on experience) Hutco Inc. is seeking first-class ship fitters for shipyards located in Harvey ...

Avail Staffing Company

Ship Fitter

Norfolk, VA

$26 - $29/hr

As a Ship Fitter, you will perform steel and aluminum structural work on a variety of marine vessels, including U.S. Naval ships, Military Sealift Command vessels, and commercial ships. Your ...

NSC Staffing

Ship Superintendent

North Kingstown, RI · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Ship Repair Superintendent Location: Kingstown, Rhode Island Company: NSC Staffing Send Resumes to: nscnorfolk@nscstaffing.com NSC Staffing is seeking an experienced Ship Repair Superintendent to ...

Labor One Staffing

Ship Fitters

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

Labor One is currently hiring Ship Fitters in Pascagoula, MS at a Shipyard. Pay rate is up to $26.10 for night shift and $24.10 for day shift, if eligible. Job Requirements: Three years of experience ...

Hutco Inc

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 be able to burn and bevel with hand torch * Must pass fillet weld test using 7018 rods * Must pass ...

Hutco Inc

Ship Fitter

Houma, LA · On-site

$24/hr

Ship Fitters Job Location: Houma, La. Hutco Branch: Houma, La. Pay Rate: $24.00 per hour DESCRIPTION: Currently looking for 1st Class Ship Fitters to work in Houma, La. To be considered for this Ship ...

Tecnico Corporation

Ship Superintendent

San Diego, CA · On-site

Ship Superintendent Summary: Coordinates, executes, and supervises various entities involved in major repairs to Navy, Government, and commercial ships ensuring that the project is safely completed ...

Hutco Inc

Ship Fitter

Houma, LA

$24/hr

Ship Fitters Job Location: Houma, La. Hutco Branch: Houma, La. Pay Rate: $24.00 per hour DESCRIPTION: Currently looking for 1st Class Ship Fitters to work in Houma, La. To be considered for this Ship ...

Hutco Inc

Ship Fitter

Tampa, FL

$29/hr

Must know Ship terminology * Must read blue prints to lay out and fabricate parts for ships * Must be able to burn and bevel with hand torch * Must pass fillet weld test using 7018 rods * Must pass ...

PROLIM Global Corporation

Ship Fitter

Goose Creek, SC · On-site

Ship Fitter 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 ...

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Shipbuilder information

See salary details

$14

$29

$45

How much do shipbuilder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipbuilder 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.

How do I become a shipbuilder?

To become a shipbuilder, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or an apprenticeship in shipbuilding or welding. Skills in blueprint reading, metalworking, and familiarity with tools and safety procedures are essential, and some positions may require certifications such as OSHA safety training or welding licenses.

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

To thrive as a Shipbuilder, you need expertise in blueprint reading, metal fabrication, welding, and marine construction, typically backed by vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with tools such as welding equipment, CNC machines, and CAD software, along with certifications like AWS welding credentials, is often required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the precise assembly of safe, seaworthy vessels while maintaining efficiency and quality standards in a highly collaborative environment.

What are some common challenges shipbuilders face in coordinating with different trades during a ship's construction?

Shipbuilders often work alongside professionals from various trades, such as welders, electricians, and pipefitters, which can present coordination challenges. Ensuring that each trade completes their tasks in the correct sequence is critical to avoid delays and rework. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are vital for resolving scheduling conflicts and addressing unforeseen issues as they arise. Many shipyards use digital project management tools and regular team meetings to facilitate smooth collaboration and keep projects on track.

What is the difference between Shipbuilder vs Shipfitter?

AspectShipbuilderShipfitter
Primary RoleConstructs, assembles, and installs ship components during the entire building process.Fits, installs, and repairs ship components, focusing on specific sections or systems.
Skills & CertificationsWelding, blueprint reading, basic certifications in shipbuilding trades.Welding, blueprint reading, specialized fitting skills, certifications vary.
Work EnvironmentShipyards, construction sites, indoor and outdoor settings.Shipyards, often working on specific sections or systems of ships.
Industry UsageUsed across shipbuilding companies for overall construction.Used for detailed fitting and installation tasks within shipbuilding projects.

In summary, Shipbuilders oversee the entire construction process of ships, assembling major components, while Shipfitters focus on fitting and installing specific parts and systems. Both roles require welding and blueprint skills but differ in scope and responsibilities within the shipbuilding industry.

How much money do shipbuilders make?

Shipbuilders typically earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the vessels they work on. Skilled shipbuilders with certifications and specialized training can earn higher wages, especially in shipyards with union agreements or in regions with a high demand for maritime construction. Wages may also vary based on union membership, overtime, and the specific employer.

What is a shipbuilder?

Shipbuilders are skilled professionals who design, construct, and repair ships and other marine vessels. They work in shipyards using materials such as steel, aluminum, and composites to build everything from cargo ships to naval vessels. The job involves reading blueprints, welding, fitting parts, and ensuring vessels meet safety and quality standards. Shipbuilders may specialize in areas like metal fabrication, electrical systems, or hull assembly. Their expertise is vital to the maritime industry, supporting transportation, defense, and commerce worldwide.
More about Shipbuilder jobs
What cities are hiring for Shipbuilder jobs? Cities with the most Shipbuilder job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Shipbuilder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Shipbuilder jobs are:
Shipbuilder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shipbuilder job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,961 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Shipbuilder

Philly Shipyard

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
  • Ensure that all Hanwha Philly Shipyard safety procedures, rules and regulations are followed and met
  • Work independently according to instructions, rules and other standards
  • Frequently utilizes a variety of shipbuilding tools (grinders, torches, etc.)
  • Frequently reads shipbuilding blueprints and other technical documents
  • Frequently responsible for basic plate and stiffener assembly
  • Frequently responsible for large panel and double bottom production, including pre-outfitting
  • Frequently responsible for web line production, including plate cutting
  • Occasionally moves material
  • Occasionally stores material
  • Frequently keeps work area clean and organized, must be clean at the end of shift
  • Responsible for all areas in the yard production, including dry dock and fabrication
  • Responsible to check around all areas before starting hot work
  • Responsible to protect any areas from hot work, including painted areas, machinery etc.
  • Perform other duties as assigned and required

COMPETENCIES
  • Analysis and problem solving
  • Adaptability
  • Organizing
  • Communication skills
  • Willingness and ability to function as a team member

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
This position has no supervision responsibilities.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • A High School Diploma or equivalent is required
  • Minimum 4 years' experience in shipyards with shipbuilding production or ship repair businesses with manufacturing of heavy steel structures production of pressure vessels, boilers and other similar quality products welding and fitting, hand tools and industrial safety
  • Must be able to read and comprehend blue prints

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Duties performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, vibration, dirt, dust, fume, oil and extreme temperatures at times.
*Hanwha Philly Shipyard is a Tobacco-free environment.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Consequently, a range of motion sufficient to perform heavy lifting and carrying, bending, kneeling, stooping, crawling, climbing, working at heights, extended walking or standing, etc. is required. Good visual and hearing acuity are essential. The use of corrective lenses and hearing aids is acceptable. Employment in this position is contingent upon passing the medical examination. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK
This is an on-site, full-time, safety-sensitive position, with varying shifts and days/hours of work depending on production needs.
OTHER DUTIES
Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time or without notice.
Hanwha Philly Shipyard is committed to equal opportunity for all applicants and employees. The recruitment, selection, employment, placement, compensation, promotion, and training of employees during employment, shall be without discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, veteran status, disability, age or any other characteristic protected by applicable law, except that the applicant must meet the minimum age requirement. Hanwha Philly Shipyard does not, and will not, discriminate because of the disability of such individual.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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