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Shipfitter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NSC Staffing

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Newport News, VA · On-site

$20 - $21/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 Norfolk, VA area.

NSC Staffing

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$20 - $21/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 Norfolk, VA area.

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 ...

Master Boat Builders, Inc

1st Class Shipfitter

AL · On-site

The 1st Class Shipfitter will use a variety of tools, equipment, and materials to assemble the various components of a ship into one cohesive unit. This position will work to directly contribute to ...

NASSCO

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

We are looking for one J-4 Shopbased Shipfitter. The candidate must be able to operate a water jet table, have auto CAD experience and basic computer skills. There is one opening for 1st shift - 6 AM ...

NSC Staffing

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Hampton, VA · On-site

$20 - $21/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 Norfolk, VA area.

NSC Staffing

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$20 - $21/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 Norfolk, VA area.

NASSCO

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

We are looking for one J-4 Shopbased Shipfitter. The candidate must be able to operate a water jet table, have auto CAD experience and basic computer skills. There is one opening for 1st shift - 6 AM ...

NASSCO

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Newport News, VA · On-site

We are looking for one J-4 Shopbased Shipfitter. The candidate must be able to operate a water jet table, have auto CAD experience and basic computer skills. There is one opening for 1st shift - 6 AM ...

NASSCO

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA · On-site

We are looking for one J-4 Shopbased Shipfitter. The candidate must be able to operate a water jet table, have auto CAD experience and basic computer skills. There is one opening for 1st shift - 6 AM ...

NSC Staffing

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$20 - $21/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 Norfolk, VA area.

NASSCO

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Hampton, VA · On-site

We are looking for one J-4 Shopbased Shipfitter. The candidate must be able to operate a water jet table, have auto CAD experience and basic computer skills. There is one opening for 1st shift - 6 AM ...

NASSCO

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

We are looking for one J-4 Shopbased Shipfitter. The candidate must be able to operate a water jet table, have auto CAD experience and basic computer skills. There is one opening for 1st shift - 6 AM ...

NASSCO

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA · On-site

We are looking for one J-4 Shopbased Shipfitter. The candidate must be able to operate a water jet table, have auto CAD experience and basic computer skills. There is one opening for 1st shift - 6 AM ...

B&D Contracting

1st Class Shipfitter

Lockport, LA · On-site

Shipfitter Location: Lockport, 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 ...

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Shipfitter information

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$14

$25

$37

How much do shipfitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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 does a Shipfitter do?

A shipfitter is a skilled tradesperson who assembles, installs, and repairs metal structures and components on ships, such as hulls, decks, and bulkheads. They use tools like welding equipment, grinders, and measuring devices, often working in shipyards or marine environments, and may require certifications in welding or safety standards.

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 are shipfitters?

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.

Is a Shipfitter a good job?

A shipfitter is a skilled tradesperson who assembles, installs, and repairs ship structures, often working in shipyards or manufacturing facilities. The job typically requires knowledge of welding, metalworking, and blueprint reading, and can offer steady employment with opportunities for overtime. It can be physically demanding and may involve working in confined or outdoor environments, but it provides a clear career path in the maritime and manufacturing industries.

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.

How do you become a Shipfitter?

To become a shipfitter, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an apprenticeship program or technical training in shipfitting or welding. Skills in metalworking, reading blueprints, and using hand and power tools are essential, and some positions may require certifications in welding or safety standards.

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 does a navy Shipfitter do?

A navy shipfitter is responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining the structural components of ships, including hulls, decks, and bulkheads. They use welding, cutting, and fabrication skills, often working in shipyards or aboard vessels, and may require certifications in welding and safety procedures.
More about Shipfitter jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Shipfitter jobs? The most popular types of Shipfitter jobs are:
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Shipfitter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shipfitter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% 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 - Manufacturing

NSC Staffing

Newport News, VA • On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

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 Norfolk, VA area. If you have 2-10 years of experience as a Shipfitter Journeyperson and are ready to take on exciting projects, we want to hear from you!
Key Responsibilities:
As a Shipfitter, you will perform steel and aluminum structural work on various marine vessels, including U.S. Naval Vessels, Military Sealift Command, and commercial ships. This role involves:
  • Conducting repairs and modernization work with minimal supervision.
  • Utilized solid mechanical aptitude and adhered to detailed job specifications.
  • Reading blueprints, interpreting drawings, and measuring accurately.
  • Fabricating templates and installing structures according to specifications.
Qualifications:
To be successful in this role, you should possess:
  1. Strong comprehension of instructions, drawings, and correspondence.
  2. In-depth understanding of ship repair terminology and compartment location nomenclature.
  3. Physical capability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) in compliance with OSHA standards.
  4. Ability to write clear Condition Found Reports (CFR) detailing the ship's material condition and recommended actions.
  5. Effective communication skills for conveying job-related information to supervisors and team members.
  6. Proficiency in reading and interpreting structural drawings, including weld symbols and Navy damage control diagrams.
  7. Experience fabricating templates, squaring plates, and installing perpendiculars on ships.
  8. Proficiency with oxy-acetylene torch cutting and washing.
  9. Welding experience in SMAW, FCAW, and GMAW techniques.
  10. Safely operate hand and power tools, including grinders, saws, and drills.
  11. Knowledge of structural shop fabrication equipment like shears, punches, and brakes.
  12. Understanding of the aluminum 5XXX process.
  13. Strong mathematical skills for measurements using both US customary and metric systems.
  14. Minimum of four years of relevant experience.
Why NSC Staffing?
Benefits of Joining NSC Staffing:
  • Anticipated Salary Range*: [$20.00 - $21.00]
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Direct deposit or Global Cash Card option
  • Long-term job opportunities
  • Referral bonuses for qualified candidates
  • OSHA training and certification
*The anticipated salary range represents the estimated base pay for this role. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors and may vary from the posted range.
Company Overview
NSC Staffing is a nationwide leader in staffing solutions for the Marine, Industrial, Energy, and Defense sectors. We connect skilled trades professionals with rewarding career opportunities while maintaining an unwavering commitment to safety, quality, and workforce excellence.
Join Our Team Today!
Apply now and advance your marine mechanical career with NSC Staffing.
Visit our jobs page:
www.nscstaffing.com / https://crm.nscstaffing.com/form/MzMzNjQ0MTYzNDY4ODQ

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