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Shipfitter Helper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Snow & Company Inc

Shipfitter / Fabricator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Shipfitter Job Purpose and Position Overview: Snow & Company is seeking talented and skilled ... package to help you get started strong! You'll receive $1,000 in each of your first paychecks ...

Snow & Company Inc

Shipfitter / Fabricator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Shipfitter Job Purpose and Position Overview: Snow & Company is seeking talented and skilled ... package to help you get started strong! You'll receive $1,000 in each of your first paychecks ...

Textron

Shipfitter

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Our benefits and compensation packages are designed to help our talented employees excel and ... Performing the duties of a Structural Shipfitter daily. * Job duties include but are not limited to ...

Textron

Shipfitter

New Orleans, LA

Our benefits and compensation packages are designed to help our talented employees excel and ... Performing the duties of a Structural Shipfitter daily. * Job duties include but are not limited to ...

Textron

Shipfitter

New Orleans, LA

Our benefits and compensation packages are designed to help our talented employees excel and ... Performing the duties of a Structural Shipfitter daily. * Job duties include but are not limited to ...

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Shipfitter Helper information

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$11

$18

$23

How much do shipfitter helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipfitter helper in the United States is $18.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Shipfitter Helpers face during ship construction or repair projects?

Shipfitter Helpers often encounter challenges related to working in confined spaces and navigating the physically demanding tasks of lifting, aligning, and securing heavy metal parts. Adhering to strict safety protocols is essential, as the work environment can involve hazards like sharp edges, welding fumes, and loud noises. Teamwork is crucial, as Shipfitter Helpers regularly coordinate with welders, fitters, and supervisors to ensure accuracy and maintain project timelines. Developing strong communication and adaptability skills can help overcome these challenges and contribute to the smooth progress of shipbuilding projects.

What is the difference between Shipfitter Helper vs Shipfitter?

AspectShipfitter HelperShipfitter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic apprenticeship or on-the-job trainingAdditional certifications or apprenticeships, more experience required
Work EnvironmentAssists with shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance in shipyards or marine facilitiesPerforms more complex fitting, assembly, and installation tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesSupports shipfitters, handles basic tasks like holding, cleaning, and material prepPerforms precise fitting, welding, and assembly of ship components

The main difference between a Shipfitter Helper and a Shipfitter is experience and responsibility level. Helpers assist with basic tasks and support shipfitters, while shipfitters perform more skilled fitting and assembly work. Both roles are essential in shipbuilding and repair, with helpers often serving as entry-level positions to gain experience in the industry.

Is a Shipfitter a good job?

A shipfitter helper assists skilled shipfitters in assembling, installing, and repairing metal structures on ships, often working in shipyards or industrial settings. The job typically requires physical strength, attention to detail, and knowledge of welding and blueprint reading. It can offer steady employment and opportunities for skill development, but may involve physically demanding work and exposure to harsh environments.

What is the highest paying job at the shipyard?

At a shipyard, the highest paying roles are typically senior positions such as shipyard managers, project managers, or specialized engineers like naval architects. These roles require extensive experience, technical skills, and often certifications, and they oversee large projects or operations, commanding higher salaries than entry-level or helper positions like shipfitter helpers.

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

To thrive as a Shipfitter Helper, you need a basic understanding of metalworking, blueprint reading, and general construction safety, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, measuring instruments, and sometimes OSHA safety certifications are typically expected. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn make someone stand out in this position. These skills are essential to ensure precise fabrication, safe work practices, and effective support of shipbuilding operations.

What is a Shipfitter helper job description?

A Shipfitter Helper assists shipfitters in assembling, installing, and repairing metal structures and components on ships. They typically perform tasks such as measuring, cutting, grinding, and cleaning materials, often working under supervision in shipyard environments. Basic knowledge of hand tools, safety procedures, and physical stamina are important for this role.

What are Shipfitter Helpers?

Shipfitter Helpers assist shipfitters in the construction, repair, and maintenance of ships and other marine vessels. Their duties typically include preparing materials, holding or positioning metal parts, cleaning work areas, and operating basic tools under supervision. Shipfitter Helpers play a crucial role in ensuring that fabrication and assembly work proceeds smoothly and safely. This entry-level position provides valuable hands-on experience in the shipbuilding industry and can lead to more advanced roles with additional training.

How to become a Shipfitter?

To become a shipfitter, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and gain experience through an apprenticeship or on-the-job training. Skills in welding, metalworking, and reading blueprints are essential, and some employers may require certifications in welding or safety standards.
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Shipfitter Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shipfitter Helper job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,478 per year, or $18 per hour.

Shipfitter II and III-National City,California

Continental Tide Defense System INC.

Bonita, CA

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description


Company Overview:
Continental Tide Defense Systems, Inc. (Continental Tide) is an industry leader, providing engineering and industrial services to the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and other DoD organizations. At Continental Tide, we understand that a great company culture is one where employees know their voice is heard, no matter what their title is, and letting them grow in their role as the company does. We want to provide our employees with the opportunity to learn, be challenged and be in a position where they can succeed, develop new skills, and do things they couldn't do anywhere else. Within our fast-paced and challenging environment, employees at Continental Tide can catapult themselves to the top and we're looking for 'the best at what they do' to join our team and help us grow.
Continental Tide Defense Systems, Inc. is actively seeking a motivated, energetic, and detail-oriented Shipfitter for our San Diego location.
Shipfitter
  • Shipfitter - The Shipfitter must possess knowledge, skills, and abilities sufficient to assemble, modify, lay out, fabricate, repair and install plates, shapes and/or pipe to be used to form a part of a structural assembly in connection with ship alteration and repair. The following is a list of typical work that a Shipfitter might be asked to perform:
  • Lays out work from written and verbal instructions. Employs appropriate trade methods to ensure watertight integrity on hulls of metal ships.
  • Manufactures and installs interior and exterior structural items.
  • Repairs and/or removes and replaces damaged ship structures and fittings. Understands and utilizes appropriate trade methods to create structural welds and fittings. Manufactures and installs parts and assemblies from templates.
  • Prepares surfaces for welding, burning, riveting and lays out for holes to be drilled utilizing miscellaneous hand, electric, and pneumatic tools. Measures with various precision instruments as required.
  • Coordinates and arranges for the work of several trades in connection with performing work from information received from technical work documents, blueprints, specifications, written and/or oral instructions.

Experience and Skills
  • Must possess a high school, trade or vocational school degree
  • 5-8 years of direct experience in ship repair and installation of Hull, Mechanical & Electrical (HM&E) systems and equipment.
  • Ability to read and interpret ship installation drawings, installation specifications and NAVSEA Standard Items is preferred.
  • Must have or have the ability to obtain a SECRET clearance
  • Must have the ability to obtain base access and security credentials
  • Ability to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 30 lbs.
  • Ability to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces.
  • Travel may be required within and outside of the continental United States.
  • Due to export control regulations, this role is open to U.S. citizens only.

Job Benefits
Benefits:
Continental Tide offers an empowering professional environment in a culture that stresses teamwork, shared responsibility for company and client success, and personal growth. We offer competitive wages in salaried and hourly positions, educational opportunities, competitive employee benefit options, and 401K plan with company match.
Continental Tides Defense Systems, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
See all of our latest opportunities at www.continentaltide.com or follow us on our LinkedIn page at www.linkedin.com/company/continental-tide-defense-systems.
To be considered you must apply by going to www.continentaltide.com.
"This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans, and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans."

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