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Shipfitter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LEAD Staffing

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 ...

B&D Contracting

1st Class Shipfitter

Houma, LA · On-site

$25/hr

Shipfitter Location: Houma, LA Job Summary Seeking a skilled Shipfitter to fabricate, fit, and assemble structural components for marine vessels. Must be able to read blueprints and work safely in a ...

NSC STAFFING

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Pascagoula MS Company: NSC Staffing NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the Pascagoula MS area. If you have 2-10 years of ...

NSC Staffing

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

$35.28 - $42/hr

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

NSC STAFFING

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Carrollton, VA · 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 ...

NSC STAFFING

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Hampton, VA · 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 ...

NSC STAFFING

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Virginia Beach, VA · 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 ...

NSC Staffing

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

Join Our Team as a Shipfitter! Location: Pascagoula MS Company: NSC Staffing NSC Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to join our team in the Pascagoula MS area. If you have 2-10 years of ...

Bollinger Shipyards

Shipfitter A

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

The shipfitter is responsible for the surface preparation of structural metal components and the lay out and fabrication of metal structural parts within the hull of a vessel for riveting and welding.

NSC STAFFING

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA · 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 ...

NSC STAFFING

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA · 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 ...

NSC Staffing

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Virginia Beach, VA · 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 ...

NSC Staffing

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Virginia Beach, VA · 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 ...

NSC Staffing

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Virginia Beach, VA · 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 ...

Bollinger Shipyards

Shipfitter A

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

The shipfitter is responsible for the surface preparation of structural metal components and the lay out and fabrication of metal structural parts within the hull of a vessel for riveting and welding.

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Shipfitter information

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$14

$25

$37

How much do shipfitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipfitter in the United States is $25.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $26.92 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.
More about Shipfitter jobs
What cities are hiring for Shipfitter jobs? Cities with the most Shipfitter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Shipfitter jobs? The most popular types of Shipfitter jobs are:
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What states have the most Shipfitter jobs? States with the most job openings for Shipfitter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Shipfitter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Shipfitter jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Shipfitter jobs? For Shipfitter jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Shipfitter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shipfitter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $52,672 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Shipfitter

LEAD Staffing

Norfolk, VA

$20 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job Opportunity: 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 support shipyard operations in, VA. This role involves laying out, fitting, and assembling structural components of ships in accordance with engineering drawings and shipyard specifications.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lay out, fit, and tack weld structural components including frames, bulkheads, decks, and brackets.
  • Set up and align structural assemblies using precision measuring tools.
  • Fabricate temporary staging, shoring, and strong-backs as needed.
  • Read and interpret structural drawings, blueprints, and offset tables.
  • Coordinate with welders and other trades for component installation.
  • Ensure dimensional accuracy and alignment before and after welding.
  • Use burning, grinding, and cutting equipment for material preparation.
  • Follow all shipyard safety procedures and quality standards.
Requirements
  • Minimum of 3 years of shipfitting experience in a marine or shipyard environment.
  • Strong blueprint reading and structural layout skills.
  • Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, and structural fitting equipment.
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Must be willing to undergo background check and drug screening.
  • Willingness to work overtime, weekends, and extended schedules as required.
  • Clean driving record required.
Work Environment
  • Shipyard and industrial settings
  • Exposure to noise, heat, cold, confined spaces, and marine/industrial hazards
  • PPE required at all times
Job-Specific Interview Questions
  1. Describe your experience as a Shipfitter in a marine or shipyard environment.
  2. What types of structural assemblies have you fitted and aligned?
  3. How do you ensure dimensional accuracy when fitting large structural components?
  4. What measuring and layout tools do you use most frequently?
  5. How do you work with welders to ensure proper fit-up before final welding?
  6. Describe a challenging structural fit-up problem you resolved.
  7. How do you read and apply offset tables or structural drawings in the field?
  8. What safety precautions are most important when fitting heavy structural components?
  9. How do you manage multiple fit-up tasks on tight availability schedules?
  10. How do you communicate dimensional discrepancies to supervisors or engineers?
Why Work With LEAD Staffing
  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Holiday Pay (eligible after qualifying hours worked)
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance options
  • Referral Bonus Program – earn a bonus for referring qualified candidates
  • Consistent shipyard work with overtime opportunities
  • Opportunity to work on complex naval and industrial projects
  • Strong safety-first work culture
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
LEAD is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where employment opportunities are available to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender expression, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), military and veteran status, labor union affiliation, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Company Description

“At LEAD, your career is our top priority. As a leading recruiting partner, we're dedicated to connecting talented job seekers with exciting opportunities and rewarding careers across a variety of dynamic industries. Our team takes the time to understand our employee's unique skills, experience, and professional goals. We then leverage our extensive network and industry expertise to match them with the perfect fit - whether that's a short-term project, long-term contract, or a permanent role. Employee's don't just settle for just any job - they partner with LEAD and unlock a world of rewarding possibilities for themselves. Apply today and let us help you find the perfect fit.”