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Shipbuilder Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

A ship check consists of examining the affected equipment, system piping, and ship's structure to accurately estimate the amount of consumable materials that will be required. After the ship check ...

Shipboard Supervisor Hourly Non-Exempt Position Location Norfolk, VA About Us Waveforce Electrical is a small but growing business specializing in electrical / electronic ship repair, maintenance and ...

Shipboard SupervisorHourly Non-Exempt PositionLocationNorfolk, VAAbout UsWaveforce Electrical is a small but growing business specializing in electrical / electronic ship repair, maintenance and ...

Familiarity with shipbuilding industry safety regulations. * Tool Proficiency : Experience using vibratory tools (grinders and needle guns) and air carbon arc gouging. WELDING QUALIFICATION: All ...

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Shipbuilder information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$29

$45

How much do shipbuilder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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.

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.
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:
Infographic showing various Shipbuilder job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,429 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

$26.35 - $35.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


General Dynamics Information Technology rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 223 rated it services


Job description

Type of Requisition:
Regular
Clearance Level Must Currently Possess:
None
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain:
None
Public Trust/Other Required:
None
Job Family:
SCA
Job Qualifications:
Skills:
Blueprints, Electrical Installations, Shipyards
Certifications:
None
Experience:
3 + years of related experience
US Citizenship Required:
Yes
Job Description:
Ship Fitter
This is a waterfront shipboard construction and re-modernization position, working within shipyards and drydocks onboard U.S. Naval ships. The incumbent will be working in varying temperatures of high heat in the summer and cold in the winter preforming the following tasks:
• Installs, maintains, repairs, overhauls, troubleshoots, modifies, constructs, and tests mechanical equipment and related devices.
• Troubleshoots and corrects structural placement.
• Makes recommendations for improvements or modifications to correct problems.
• May provide operation and maintenance instruction to customer personnel.
• Performs preventative maintenance.
• Participates in special projects, as required.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO SUCCEED:
• Education: Associates of Arts/Associates of Science.
• Required Experience: Associate's Degree in a related technical discipline, or the equivalent combination of education, technical certifications or training, or work experience. 1-3 years of directly related experience supporting engineering operations.
• Location: On Customer Site.
• US Citizenship Required.
Certifications:
May require TAC welding certification.
GDIT IS YOUR PLACE:
• 401K with company match
• Comprehensive health and wellness packages
• Internal mobility team dedicated to helping you own your career
• Professional growth opportunities including paid education and certifications
• Cutting-edge technology you can learn from
• Rest and recharge with paid vacation and holidays
#hireshipyardcareersgdit
The likely hourly rate for this position is between $26.35 - $35.65. This is not, however, a guarantee of compensation or salary. Rather, salary will be set based on experience, geographic location and possibly contractual requirements and could fall outside of this range.
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
40
Travel Required:
10-25%
T elecommuting Options:
Onsite
Work Location:
USA VA Norfolk
Additional Work Locations:
Total Rewards at GDIT:
Our benefits package for all US-based employees includes a variety of medical plan options, some with Health Savings Accounts, dental plan options, a vision plan, and a 401(k) plan offering the ability to contribute both pre and post-tax dollars up to the IRS annual limits and receive a company match. To encourage work/life balance, GDIT offers employees full flex work weeks where possible and a variety of paid time off plans, including vacation, sick and personal time, holidays, paid parental, military, bereavement and jury duty leave. To ensure our employees are able to protect their income, other offerings such as short and long-term disability benefits, life, accidental death and dismemberment, personal accident, critical illness and business travel and accident insurance are provided or available. We regularly review our Total Rewards package to ensure our offerings are competitive and reflect what our employees have told us they value most.
Our Identify Verification Process:
As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during virtual interviews. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud. By proceeding, you authorize the collection, processing, and use of your biometric data for identity verification and security purposes.
About our Work:
We are GDIT. A global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense and intelligence community. Our 26,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. We operate across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading mission-ready capabilities in AI, cloud, cyber and software development.
Join our Talent Community to stay up to date on our career opportunities and events at
gdit.com/tc .
Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

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About General Dynamics Information Technology

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GDIT is a global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense, and intelligence community. Its 30,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. The company operates across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading capabilities in digital modernization, AI/ML, cloud, cyber, and application development.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US