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Shipwright Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marine Carpenter

Chesapeake, VA

$21 - $28.75/hr

Shipyard Carpenter (Marine Carpenter / Shipwright) Location: Hampton Roads, VA Position Overview We are seeking skilled Shipyard Carpenters to support vessel construction, repair, and maintenance ...

Shipyard Carpenter 001

Norfolk, VA

$21 - $28.50/hr

We are a leading marine and industrial construction firm seeking a skilled Marine Shipwright (Carpenter) to support ship repair, marine construction, and structural restoration projects. From ...

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Shipwright information

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$18

$31

$39

How much do shipwright jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipwright in the United States is $31.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.77 and $34.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Shipwright job?

A Shipwright is a skilled tradesperson who builds, repairs, and maintains ships and boats. They work with various materials, including wood, metal, and fiberglass, to construct or restore watercraft. Shipwrights use hand tools, power tools, and heavy machinery to shape and assemble different parts of a vessel. Their job requires an understanding of maritime engineering, structural integrity, and safety standards. Shipwrights may work in shipyards, docks, or specialized workshops depending on the project.

What is the salary of a shipwright?

The average salary of a shipwright varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year. Skilled shipwrights with certifications and specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially when working on large vessels or in shipbuilding yards.

What does a shipwright do?

A shipwright is a skilled tradesperson who builds, repairs, and maintains ships and boats, often working with wood, fiberglass, or metal. They interpret blueprints, use hand and power tools, and ensure vessels meet safety and quality standards in shipyards or dry docks.

What is the highest paid job on a ship?

The highest paid jobs on a ship are typically senior officers such as the captain or master, who oversee all ship operations and safety. These roles require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and they often earn the highest salaries among crew members. Salaries vary based on the vessel type, company, and region, but captains generally receive the highest compensation onboard.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior executives, specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. Certain executive positions in large corporations, investment bankers, and highly experienced professionals in niche fields may also reach this income level, often requiring advanced skills, extensive experience, and significant responsibility.

What does a typical workday look like for a Shipwright, and what kind of projects might they handle?

A typical day as a Shipwright involves a mix of hands-on construction, repair, and maintenance tasks on wooden or metal vessels, such as installing frames, hulls, decking, and interiors. Shipwrights often collaborate closely with marine engineers, welders, and other tradespeople to ensure each project meets safety and design specifications. Projects can range from building new boats from scratch to restoring historic ships or performing routine repairs on commercial and recreational vessels. The workflow is dynamic, sometimes requiring work in shipyards, dry docks, or even on-site at marinas, making each day varied and engaging.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Shipwright position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Shipwright, you need expertise in woodworking, metalworking, blueprint reading, and hands-on boat or ship construction, typically supported by vocational training or apprenticeship. Familiarity with power tools, CNC machines, and industry safety protocols is highly valuable, and certification from recognized maritime or trade organizations is often preferred. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and attention to detail are critical soft skills that distinguish top Shipwrights. These competencies ensure precise, safe, and high-quality construction and repair of vessels, which are crucial in marine industries.

What cities are hiring for Shipwright jobs? Cities with the most Shipwright job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Shipwright jobs? The most popular types of Shipwright jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Shipwright jobs? The top employers for Shipwright jobs are:
What states have the most Shipwright jobs? States with the most job openings for Shipwright jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Shipwright jobs? For Shipwright jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Shipwright 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 $64,667 per year, or $31.1 per hour.
Marine Carpenter

$21 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Shipyard Carpenter (Marine Carpenter / Shipwright)

Location: Hampton Roads, VA

Position Overview

We are seeking skilled Shipyard Carpenters to support vessel construction, repair, and maintenance projects throughout Hampton Roads shipyards. This role focuses on building, installing, and repairing structural and interior components on marine vessels while working in a fast-paced industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Construct, install, and repair shipboard structures including bulkheads, decking, partitions, and fixtures
  • Measure, cut, shape, and assemble wood, composite, and marine-grade materials
  • Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and technical drawings to complete projects accurately
  • Perform structural repairs and modifications to vessels, dry docks, and marine facilities
  • Install interior components such as doors, panels, flooring, and cabinetry
  • Inspect completed work to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards
  • Operate hand tools, power tools, and carpentry equipment safely and efficiently
  • Collaborate with welders, fitters, and other trades to complete shipyard projects
Qualifications
  • Previous experience in carpentry, marine carpentry, or shipyard environment preferred
  • Ability to read blueprints and follow detailed instructions
  • Knowledge of materials including wood, fiberglass, and composites
  • Familiarity with shipyard safety standards (OSHA, confined space, etc.)
  • Physical ability to lift, climb, and work in tight or elevated spaces
  • Reliable transportation and ability to access shipyard facilities (DBIDS may be required)

Tidewater Staffing logo

About Tidewater Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.” Our deep industry experience and established local presence allow us to maintain a consistent, updated, and expansive network of skilled candidates, and our proprietary digital onboarding process. When you partner with Tidewater Staffing, you get employees who are trained, screened, supplied, and access to our proprietary digital onboarding process.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Virginia Beach, VA, US

Year founded

1992