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Shipfitter Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Handyperson Shipfitter

Chesapeake, VA ยท On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Summary Handyperson 1st Shipfitter must demonstrate a keen interest in learning the trade and possess fundamental knowledge of the shipbuilding industry. Familiarity with structural components and ...

Shipfitter LEAD Staffing | Hampton Roads, VA Location: Norfolk, VA Schedule: Full-Time | Contract | 40 hours per week (Overtime as required) About the Role We are seeking an experienced Shipfitter to ...

Salary: $18-$22 Summary Handyperson 1st Shipfitter must demonstrate a keen interest in learning the trade and possess fundamental knowledge of the shipbuilding industry. Familiarity with structural ...

Shipfitter

Norfolk, VA

$20 - $26.50/hr

Shipfitter LEAD Staffing | Hampton Roads, VA Location: Norfolk, VA Schedule: Full-Time | Contract | 40 hours per week (Overtime as required) About the Role We are seeking an experienced Shipfitter to ...

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Carrollton, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $29/hr

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Hampton, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $29/hr

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $29/hr

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $29/hr

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Carrollton, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $29/hr

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Chesapeake, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $29/hr

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $29/hr

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $29/hr

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Suffolk, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $29/hr

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Norfolk, VA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the [Enter Location ...

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Shipfitter information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$25

$36

How much do shipfitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipfitter in Virginia is $25.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.68 and $26.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Shipfitter, you need strong skills in blueprint reading, metal fabrication, welding, and structural assembly, usually backed by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with tools such as cutting torches, grinders, and shipyard safety systems, as well as certifications like AWS welding or OSHA, is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the accurate construction, repair, and maintenance of ships while upholding safety and efficiency standards in a demanding environment.

What is a shipfitter?

Shipfitters are skilled tradespeople who construct, assemble, and repair the metal structures of ships, such as hulls, bulkheads, and frames. They work primarily in shipyards, using blueprints and technical drawings to cut, shape, and fit steel or aluminum plates and other structural components. Shipfitters often use tools like welding equipment, torches, and power tools to join materials and ensure the structural integrity of a vessel. Their work is essential to building new ships and maintaining or refitting existing ones.

What is the difference between Shipfitter vs Welder?

AspectShipfitterWelder
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires apprenticeship or technical trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications like AWS or CWB often preferred
Work EnvironmentShipyards, manufacturing plants, marine constructionFabrication shops, construction sites, shipyards
Industry UsagePrimarily in shipbuilding, marine repair, and heavy industryWidespread across construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding

Shipfitters focus on assembling and installing large metal structures, including ship hulls and decks, using hand tools and measuring devices. Welders specialize in joining metal parts through welding techniques. While both roles work in shipbuilding environments and require technical skills, shipfitters handle fitting and assembly, whereas welders focus on welding and metal joining.

What are some typical challenges shipfitters face when working on large-scale shipbuilding projects?

Shipfitters often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, handling heavy materials, and interpreting complex blueprints in dynamic shipyard environments. Large-scale projects may involve coordinating with welders, pipefitters, and engineers to ensure that structural components align accurately and meet safety standards. Adjusting to changing priorities and tight timelines, especially when working on repairs or retrofits, also requires strong problem-solving skills and adaptability.
What are the most commonly searched types of Shipfitter jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Shipfitter jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Shipfitter jobs in Virginia? For Shipfitter jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Shipfitter jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Shipfitter jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Shipfitter jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Shipfitter job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Shipfitter jobs in VA? For Shipfitter jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Shipfitter job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $52,221 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Handyperson Shipfitter

Tecnico

Chesapeake, VA โ€ข On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Summary

Handyperson 1st Shipfitter must demonstrate a keen interest in learning the trade and possess fundamental knowledge of the shipbuilding industry. Familiarity with structural components and experience assisting with installs, along with the ability to locate compartments by space number, and understanding of nautical directions (port, starboard, forward, aft) are essential.

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and always adhere to all OSHA safety standards and Técnico safety policies.
  • Must be a certified Firewatch and maintain active status in accordance with safety requirements.
  • Maintain a good attendance record.
  • Exhibit a positive attitude, take pride in your work, and represent Técnico and our customers with professionalism.
  • Work well with others and accept constructive feedback from mentors (lead mechanic, supervisor, PMT, etc.)
  • Show a willingness to learn, strive for improvement, and develop skills in all aspects of the trade.
  • Demonstrate a strong desire to grow and excel in the Shipfitter trade.
  • Must have a general working knowledge of drawings and blueprints, with the ability to interpret and apply basic information as needed.
  • Possess a basic assortment of hand tools required in the Shipfitter trade.
  • Able to use power and hand tools with precision and accuracy, including the ability to read and interpret measurements using a standard ruler or tape measure.
  • Have a general knowledge of shipboard structural components relevant to assigned tasks.
  • Independently execute assigned tasks provided by the Supervisor, PMT, or lead mechanic, while maintaining communication and accountability to the assigning party.
  • Able to assist with and independently complete various tasks as directed of the following items:
    • Perform layout, rip out, modification, installation, replacement, and repair of structural components.
    • Fit-up various structural items (e.g., structural foundations, bulkhead/deck inserts). structural outfitting items.
    • Install structural outfitting components including doors, ladders, scuttles and hatches.

Experience Requirements

  • 2 years of experience in the Shipfitter trade in a shipyard.


Other Requirements

  • Must be able to work in various environmental conditions including outdoor weather, heights, confined spaces, loud noise, and exposure to airborne particles or fumes.
  • Must be able to wear a respirator as required for specific tasks and maintain compliance with fit testing and respiratory protection protocols.
  • Regularly required to sit, reach, and use hands for handling or operating tools and equipment.
  • Occasionally required to stoop, bend, squat, crawl, and climb ladders or structures (e.g., masts, tanks, voids).
  • Must be able to lift and move up to 50 lbs. independently and seek assistance for heavier loads.
  • Must be able to pass Drug Screening, Work Ability Screening.
  • Must be able to obtain a Government facility security pass and badges at the various shipyards Técnico works at (e.g., MHI, BAE, NASSCO, HII).
  • Availability to work overtime, weekends, or travel to alternate worksites when project needs demand.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.