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Shipfitter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job #218399 Chipton-Ross is seeking multiple 1st Class Shipfitter's for an opportunity in Pascagoula, MS. Additional hourly PD is 18.38 for those that live over 75 miles with valid utility bill. This ...

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 ...

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 ...

Job Title: 1st Class Shipfitter Location: Houma, LA Position Overview: A 1st Class Shipfitter is responsible for performing layout, cutting, metric measuring, and structural fitting processes on ...

Job Title: 1st Class Shipfitter Location: Houma, LA Position Overview: A 1st Class Shipfitter is responsible for performing layout, cutting, metric measuring, and structural fitting processes on ...

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 ...

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.

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.

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Shipfitter information

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$14

$25

$37

How much do shipfitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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
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:
What states have the most Shipfitter jobs? States with the most job openings for Shipfitter jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Shipfitter jobs? For Shipfitter jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Shipfitter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,672 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
1st Class Shipfitter

1st Class Shipfitter

Chipton Ross

Pascagoula, MS • On-site

$38/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Job #218399
Chipton-Ross is seeking multiple 1st Class Shipfitter's for an opportunity in Pascagoula, MS.
Additional hourly PD is 18.38 for those that live over 75 miles with valid utility bill. This new rate will require a minimum of 2 hours worked daily and is capped at 8 hours maximum per day. There is NO differentiation for Premium or No Premium.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE)
  • Minimum 3-5 Yrs. trade experience.
  • Basic math, reading and comprehension skills.
  • Read and interpret blueprints utilizing both metric and standard measurements.
  • Knowledge of the layout, fit-up and fabrication of steel plate and beam.
  • Experience with various trade specific tools such as: grinder, hand torch, hydraulic and ratchet jack, chain fall and/or come-a-long, combination square, framing square, hand level and plumb bob.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
First-Class Shipfitter, also referred to as a Journeyman Shipfitter or a Boilermaker, is responsible for various tools and equipment used in the fabrication, assembling and erection of metal components at the various stages in constructing a marine vessel. Production areas at times involve working at different heights, confined spaces, different weather conditions as well as multiple shifts 24 hours a day. As with most every position in the shipyard, a Shipfitter may be required to work either day or night dependent upon the number of ships under construction at any one point in time. We stress the practice of working safely in all situations, with safety procedures meeting, and most times, exceeding industry standards.
  • A skill assessment will be a written and hands on test.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (DESIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE)
  • 6+ Yrs. marine, shipbuilding and construction experience
  • Knowledge of setting and erecting units with proficiency in the use of Datum Lines
  • Familiarity with fit-up, alignment tolerances and advanced blue print reading skills

REQUIRED EDUCATION
Accredited High School diploma or equivalent.
WORK HOURS
Full Time - 1st, 2nd, 3rd shift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  • Employment will be contingent on clearing a drug screen and background check. Both must clear prior to start date.
  • Candidates responding to this posting must currently possess the eligibility to work in the United States. No third parties please.

For more information, please apply or contact:
Dylan Manning 800.927.9318 x223
dmanning@chiptonross.com
Chipton-Ross provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, State or local law. This policy governs all areas of employment at Chipton-Ross, including recruiting, hiring, training, assignment, promotions, compensation, benefits, discipline, and terminations.

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About Chipton-Ross

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chipton-Ross, based in El Segundo, California, is a leading provider of staffing and recruitment services in the US. The company is renowned for its specialization in fields like engineering, information technology, aircraft manufacturing, and other technical industries. Founded in 1983, Chipton-Ross has grown to become a recognized name in the national recruitment arena with a reputation for integrity, quality, and excellence in management. The company's mission is to provide cost-effective staffing solutions that allow their clients to maximize the power of their people, enhancing both perspective and productivity.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

El Segundo, CA, US

Year founded

1983