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Shipbuilder Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Ship Superintendent

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$75.25K - $127.93K/yr

At BAE Systems, our ship superintendents are the leaders who ensure our projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety. The Navy relies on our ...

What's it like working as a Ship Superintendent for a company that delivers critical ship repair services to the Navy? Challenging and rewarding. At BAE Systems, our ship superintendents are the ...

What's it like working as a Ship Superintendent for a company that delivers critical ship repair services to the Navy? Challenging and rewarding. At BAE Systems, our ship superintendents are the ...

Ship Superintendent

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$75.25K - $127.93K/yr

At BAE Systems, our ship superintendents are the leaders who ensure our projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety. The Navy relies on our ...

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 ...

Amphibious Ship Platform Engineer

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$124.90K/yr

The Surface Maintenance Engineering, Planning, Program (SURFMEPP) maintains, monitors, and refines Class-wide and Individual-Ship Maintenance Plans for all non-nuclear surface ships to ensure ...

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 ...

The Surface Maintenance Engineering, Planning, Program (SURFMEPP) maintains, monitors, and refines Class-wide and Individual-Ship Maintenance Plans for all non-nuclear surface ships to ensure ...

Person Required Yes Travel Percentage Required Education, Experience, & Skills A Bachelor's Degree and 4 years of experience in a ship repair, shipbuilding, or maritime environment, or equivalent 6-8 ...

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Shipbuilder information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$29

$45

How much do shipbuilder jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipbuilder 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 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 are shipbuilders?

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.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Shipbuilder jobs in Virginia? For Shipbuilder jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Shipbuilder jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Shipbuilder jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Shipbuilder jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Shipbuilder job openings:

Ship Superintendent (Ship Repair)

Venture Dynamics

Norfolk, VA

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Venture Dynamics is seeking an experienced Ship Superintendent to support ship repair and maintenance operations in Norfolk, VA. This role may also function as a Port Engineer or Project Supervisor depending on assignment and scope. The Ship Superintendent is responsible for overseeing vessel repair activities, coordinating trades, and ensuring work is completed safely, on schedule, and within contract requirements across Navy and commercial shipyard environments. Assignments are project-based and may align with long-term contract work based on performance and operational needs.


Responsibilities

  • Oversee daily ship repair operations, coordinating multiple trades and subcontractors to meet production schedules and milestones
  • Serve as the primary on-site point of contact between shipyard personnel, contractors, and client representatives
  • Monitor work progress, ensuring all tasks meet quality standards, technical specifications, and contract requirements
  • Review and interpret drawings, work packages, and repair specifications to guide execution of work scopes
  • Identify and resolve production issues, delays, or conflicts impacting schedule or performance
  • Conduct regular walk-throughs of vessels and work areas to verify compliance with project plans and safety requirements
  • Support planning and scheduling efforts by providing updates on labor, material needs, and job status
  • Maintain accurate reports and documentation related to progress, delays, and completed work activities

Requirements

  • Minimum 5 years of ship repair or shipyard experience in a supervisory or lead role
  • Proven experience managing multi-trade operations aboard Navy or commercial vessels
  • Strong understanding of shipboard systems, repair processes, and industrial work sequencing
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, specifications, and technical work documents
  • Experience coordinating labor, materials, and subcontractors in a production environment
  • Ability to obtain access to military installations or shipyards as required
  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills in fast-paced, high-demand environments
  • Ability to work independently and make decisions impacting schedule and production outcomes

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior experience as a Ship Superintendent, Port Engineer, or Project Manager in ship repair
  • Familiarity with Navy standards, NAVSEA specifications, or military vessel repair requirements
  • OSHA 10 Maritime or higher safety certification
  • Experience with planning systems, scheduling tools, or shipyard production software
  • Previous experience supporting large-scale repair availabilities or dry dock projects

Additional Information

Work is performed aboard vessels, in dry docks, and in industrial shipyard environments supporting Navy and commercial repair operations. Duties may involve confined or elevated spaces and active production areas. Exposure to industrial noise and environmental conditions is expected. PPE is required in accordance with site safety policies, and respiratory protection may be required based on task or location. Reliable transportation is required to report to assigned shipyard or project locations. Work schedules may include overtime, nights, weekends, and variable shifts depending on project and production requirements.


Venture Dynamics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.