ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Shipbuilder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

New

Prolim Global

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 ...

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 ...

CDR General Services LLC

Ship Fitter

Charleston, MO · On-site

$28 - $31/hr

CDR General Services is seeking a Ship Fitter to join our team in Charleston, MO . This position is ideal for an experienced professional in shipyard or barge repair environments. The ideal candidate ...

GMD Shipyard

Ship Superintendent

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The Ship Superintendent will be responsible for managing the successful completion of assigned ship repair projects within predetermined time constraints and funding parameters. They will manage the ...

TREO Staffing, LLC

Ship Fitters

Houma, LA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Would you be a great Ship Fitters? To succeed as a Shipfitter at TREO Staffing, LLC, you will need a solid foundation of practical skills and familiarity with essential tools used in the shipyard.

GMD Shipyard

Ship Superintendent

Brooklyn, NY

The Ship Superintendent will be responsible for managing the successful completion of assigned ship repair projects within predetermined time constraints and funding parameters. They will manage the ...

Avail Staffing Company

Ship Fitter 007

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsShipbuilder Jobs

Shipbuilder information

See salary details

$14

$29

$45

How much do shipbuilder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior executives, specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. Certain highly skilled professions like pilots, investment bankers, and tech executives with stock options or bonuses also reach this income level, often requiring extensive experience, advanced certifications, or ownership stakes.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Shipbuilders typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive, specialized medical, or certain technology roles. High-paying jobs in the US often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or leadership positions. For shipbuilding, top management or project director roles may approach high six-figure salaries, especially with large projects and overtime compensation.

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.

How do I become a ship builder?

To become a ship builder, 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 relevant certifications or technical education.

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 does a shipbuilder make?

Shipbuilders typically earn a median annual salary 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 skills can earn higher wages, especially in shipyards with union agreements or in regions with a high demand for maritime construction. The job often involves working in shipyards or industrial settings, with opportunities for overtime and advancement.

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.
More about Shipbuilder jobs
What cities are hiring for Shipbuilder jobs? Cities with the most Shipbuilder job openings:
What states have the most Shipbuilder jobs? States with the most job openings for Shipbuilder jobs include:
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% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,961 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Ship Fitter

Ship Fitter

PROLIM Global Corporation

Goose Creek, SC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

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

Apply