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Shipyard Helper Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tidewater Staffing

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Secret Clearance Shipyard Workers

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

We are actively recruiting for Fire Preventers, Shipyard Helpers, Material Handlers, and other shipyard support positions requiring or benefiting from security clearance experience. Additional ...

Tidewater Staffing

Be Seen First

Secret Clearance Shipyard Workers

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

We are actively recruiting for Fire Preventers, Shipyard Helpers, Material Handlers, and other shipyard support positions requiring or benefiting from security clearance experience. Additional ...

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 ...

LEAD Staff

Shipyard Mechanic

Norfolk, VA

$22 - $27/hr

Shipyard Mechanic (Boilermaker Support) Location: Norfolk, VA Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp ... Apply today and become part of a team helping keep America's fleet mission-ready. ID:qnkTyx

LEAD Staff

Shipyard Mechanic

Norfolk, VA

$22 - $27/hr

Shipyard Mechanic (Boilermaker Support) Location: Norfolk, VA Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp ... Apply today and become part of a team helping keep America's fleet mission-ready.

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 ...

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All JobsShipyard Helper JobsShipyard Helper Jobs in Virginia

Shipyard Helper information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$14

$17

How much do shipyard helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 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.

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% 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.
Secret Clearance Shipyard Workers

Secret Clearance Shipyard Workers

Tidewater Staffing

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 23 days ago

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Job description

Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking candidates with an Active Secret Security Clearance, previous security clearance experience, or military backgrounds for shipyard opportunities throughout Hampton Roads.

We are actively recruiting for Fire Preventers, Shipyard Helpers, Material Handlers, and other shipyard support positions requiring or benefiting from security clearance experience. Additional opportunities may become available as customer needs change.

This is an excellent opportunity for candidates seeking work in the shipbuilding, ship repair, defense, and maritime industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Support shipyard operations in a variety of cleared and security-sensitive work environments.
• Perform Fire Preventer and Fire Watch duties during welding, cutting, grinding, and other hot work operations.
• Assist skilled trades personnel with shipboard and industrial work.
• Move materials, tools, and equipment throughout work areas.
• Maintain safe and organized work environments.
• Follow customer safety procedures, security requirements, and shipyard regulations.
• Work aboard ships, submarines, in dry docks, industrial facilities, and other maritime environments.
• Perform general labor and support tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

• Active Secret Security Clearance preferred.
• Candidates with previous Secret Security Clearance or other security clearance experience are encouraged to apply.
• Military experience is highly valued.
• Previous shipyard, industrial, manufacturing, construction, warehouse, or labor experience preferred.
• Ability to work in physically demanding environments.
• Ability to lift, carry, climb, bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods.
• Reliable transportation and dependable attendance.
• Strong commitment to safety, security, and teamwork.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous Fire Preventer or Fire Watch experience.
• Shipyard Helper experience.
• Material Handling experience.
• OSHA certifications.
• TWIC card.
• Experience supporting Navy, defense, shipbuilding, or maritime projects.

Why Work With Tidewater Staffing?

• Opportunities with leading Hampton Roads shipyard and defense industry employers.
• Competitive pay based on position, experience, and qualifications.
• Long-term and project-based assignments available.
• Access to multiple cleared and security-sensitive positions as they become available.
• Work with a staffing company that understands the shipyard and defense workforce.

Apply today to learn more about current and upcoming Secret Clearance shipyard opportunities throughout Hampton Roads.

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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