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Shipyard Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Labor One Staffing

Hiring Firewatch

National City, CA · On-site

Labor One is hiring Firewatch for a shipyard in San Diego, California. Please contact our team for ... Essential Job Tasks • Assists in setting up equipment, including helping the welder running leads ...

Labor One Staffing

Hiring Firewatch

National City, CA

Labor One is hiring Firewatch for a shipyard in San Diego, California. Please contact our team for ... Essential Job Tasks • Assists in setting up equipment, including helping the welder running leads ...

Westar Marine Services

Welder's Helper

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

As a Welders Helper, youll play a key support role in welding operations and daily logistics ... Prior shipyard or dockside experience a plus * Familiarity with maritime safety protocols

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Shipyard Helper information

See California salary details

$12

$14

$17

How much do shipyard helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipyard helper in California is $14.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.59 and $15.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do shipyard workers get paid?

Shipyard helpers typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $15 to $25, depending on experience, location, and union status. Overtime and shift differentials can increase overall pay, and some positions may require safety certifications or physical stamina.

How to get hired at the shipyard?

To get hired as a shipyard helper, applicants should typically submit an application, demonstrate physical fitness, and have basic skills such as teamwork and safety awareness. Prior experience or certifications in maritime or construction work can improve chances, and being available for flexible schedules is often beneficial.

What is a shipyard helper job description?

A shipyard helper assists skilled workers in tasks such as cleaning, preparing, and maintaining ships and work areas. They often handle basic tasks like moving materials, operating simple tools, and following safety protocols in a shipbuilding or repair environment.

What are some common challenges shipyard helpers face during daily operations, and how can they prepare for them?

Shipyard helpers often work in physically demanding environments, exposed to weather, noise, and heavy equipment. Common challenges include handling bulky materials, adhering to strict safety protocols, and coordinating with various skilled trades. To prepare, candidates should focus on developing physical stamina, learning basic safety procedures, and being ready to work as part of a diverse team. Demonstrating adaptability and a willingness to learn on the job can help overcome these challenges and contribute to successful performance.

What is the difference between Shipyard Helper vs Shipyard Laborer?

AspectShipyard HelperShipyard Laborer
Required CredentialsMinimal certifications, OSHA safety trainingOSHA safety training, possibly basic certifications
Work EnvironmentShipyards, docks, construction sitesShipyards, docks, construction areas
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in shipbuilding and repairOften used interchangeably with Helper, in shipbuilding and repair
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing entry-level roles in shipyardsPeople seeking similar entry-level shipyard roles

Both Shipyard Helper and Shipyard Laborer are entry-level positions in shipbuilding and repair, often requiring OSHA safety training. While the terms are frequently used interchangeably, 'Helper' may imply a slightly more supportive role, assisting skilled workers, whereas 'Laborer' can encompass a broader range of manual tasks. Both roles work in similar environments and are essential for shipyard operations.

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

To thrive as a Shipyard Helper, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety procedures, and sometimes OSHA safety certification are commonly required. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and attention to detail help individuals stand out in this role. These skills ensure safe and efficient support for shipbuilding and repair operations in a demanding environment.

What are Shipyard Helpers?

Shipyard Helpers are entry-level workers who assist skilled tradespeople in shipyards with various tasks such as cleaning, moving materials, and preparing equipment for repairs or construction. They often support welders, electricians, and other technicians by providing tools, maintaining work areas, and helping with the assembly and disassembly of ship components. This role requires physical stamina, a willingness to learn on the job, and the ability to follow safety procedures. Shipyard Helpers play a vital part in ensuring the efficiency and safety of shipbuilding and repair operations.

What does a shipyard laborer do?

A shipyard laborer assists with the construction, repair, and maintenance of ships by performing tasks such as moving materials, cleaning work areas, and supporting skilled trades like welding and painting. They often work in a physically demanding environment and may need to follow safety protocols and use basic tools and equipment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Shipyard jobs in California? The most popular types of Shipyard jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Shipyard Helper jobs in California? For Shipyard Helper jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Shipyard Helper jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Shipyard Helper jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Shipyard Helper jobs? Cities in California with the most Shipyard Helper job openings:
Shipyard Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shipyard Helper job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,623 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Shipyard Helper/Firewatch

LEAD Staffing

National City, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

General Labor Firewatch (San Diego, CA)
Lead Marine San Diego
National City, CA, USA
Full Time

Must be open to 1st Shift (6:00am to 2:30pm) or 2nd Shift (2:30pm to 11:30pm)
Responsible for light tooling, mechanical cleaning, removal of paint, maintaining a clean work space, firewatching, heavy lifting, and other general labor duties as assigned.
Responsibilities:
  • Clean and/or prepare work sites for installation projects
  • Assist in loading/unloading of materials, machinery and tools
  • Assist in setting up work area, including equipment
  • Assist installation and/or service teams as needed
  • Fire watching during hot work operations
Requirements:
  • Ability to obtain clearance to work on Naval Bases
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs
  • Experience with small hand & power tools
  • Working safely on a construction job site
  • Climbing stairs to high locations/ working on scaffolding & ladders 12' high
Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid sick leave
*The benefits listed above are subject to eligibility requirements*
To see a list of more available jobs, please visit www.leadstaff.com/jobs/
About LEAD Staffing
Lead Staffing, established in 2010, specializes in Construction, Industrial and Marine Staffing of Skilled Tradespeople throughout the United States of America. Our goal is to work with regional and national contractors that share our commitment towards safety and to provide long term rewarding work assignments for our valued employees.

LEAD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.

LEAD is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates 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 identity, gender expression, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We believe that diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to our success as a growing national company, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool.

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.”