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Shipyard Helper Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tidewater Staffing

SY Helper

Norfolk, VA

Shipyard Helper Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking Shipyard Helpers for work in Norfolk, VA, Chesapeake, VA, and Portsmouth, VA shipyards. Candidates with an Active Secret Security Clearance are ...

Tidewater Staffing

SY Helper

Norfolk, VA

Shipyard Helper Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking Shipyard Helpers for work in Norfolk, VA, Chesapeake, VA, and Portsmouth, VA shipyards. Candidates with an Active Secret Security Clearance are ...

Tidewater Staffing

Shipyard Helper Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking Shipyard Helpers for work in Norfolk, VA, Chesapeake, VA, and Portsmouth, VA shipyards. Candidates with an Active Secret Security Clearance are ...

Avail Staffing Company

Shipyard Carpenter

Norfolk, VA

$23 - $28/hr

From bulkheads and dry docks to interior vessel outfitting, your work will help shape and maintain ... Perform skilled carpentry in shipyard environments, including fabrication and installation of wood ...

Avail Staffing Company

Insulators-Shipyard

Norfolk, VA

$25 - $30/hr

We arelooking for skilled Marine Insulators to join our crew and help buildand maintain the vessels ... Shipyard Experience: 3-5 years of hands-on marine insulation work. * Attention to Detail: Expertise ...

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Shipyard Helper information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$14

$17

How much do shipyard helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipyard helper in Virginia is $14.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.49 and $15.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a shipyard helper?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a shipyard helper?

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 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 most commonly searched types of Shipyard jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Shipyard jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Shipyard Helper jobs in Virginia?

For Shipyard Helper jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Shipyard Helper jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Shipyard Helper jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Shipyard Helper jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Shipyard Helper job openings:

Shipyard Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shipyard Helper job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,414 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Shipyard Fire Preventers / Fire Watch - Secret Clearance or Red Badge

Tidewater Staffing

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 9 days ago

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Job description

Shipyard Fire Preventers / Fire Watch - Secret Clearance or Red Badge

Pay: $23-$24/hour


Tidewater Staffing is hiring Shipyard Fire Preventers / Fire Watch personnel for opportunities in the Hampton Roads maritime industry.

Candidates with a Secret Security Clearance or qualifying current shipyard badge are encouraged to apply. Red badge holders are highly encouraged to contact us.


We are currently recruiting Fire Preventers and are also building our cleared shipyard workforce for upcoming Tank Watch, Tank Cleaner, Helper, and other shipyard support opportunities.


Key Responsibilities

  • Perform Fire Preventer / Fire Watch duties during welding, cutting, grinding, and other hot work operations.
  • Monitor work areas for sparks, heat, fire hazards, and changing conditions.
  • Maintain awareness of fire prevention and emergency procedures.
  • Maintain access to required fire-extinguishing equipment.
  • Monitor designated areas during and following hot work as required.
  • Support safe shipboard and industrial operations.
  • Maintain clean and organized work areas.
  • Follow customer safety procedures, security requirements, and shipyard regulations.
  • Perform additional shipyard support duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Secret Security Clearance or qualifying shipyard badge required for the current opportunity.
  • Red badge holders are highly encouraged to apply.
  • Ability to work aboard ships and in industrial shipyard environments.
  • Ability to climb, bend, stoop, stand for extended periods, and perform physically demanding work.
  • Dependable attendance and reliable transportation.
  • Ability to follow safety, security, and customer requirements.

Preferred Experience

  • Previous Fire Preventer or Fire Watch experience.
  • Previous shipyard, maritime, industrial, construction, or military experience.
  • OSHA maritime or other applicable safety training.
  • TWIC card.
  • Experience supporting Navy, defense, shipbuilding, or ship repair operations.

Veterans and transitioning service members with qualifying clearance credentials are encouraged to apply.


Why Tidewater Staffing?

Tidewater Staffing has connected Hampton Roads workers with shipyard, industrial, and logistics opportunities since 1992. In addition to this immediate Fire Preventer need, qualified cleared candidates may be considered for additional shipyard positions as they become available.


Apply today for immediate consideration.

Company Description

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.”

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

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