ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Shipyard Helper Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

$19.81/hr

Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, is seeking a Welder Helper with flux-core (FCAW) welding certifications to support operations in Norfolk, VA. * Weld together metal components of ...

LMI

Shipyard Site Lead/Asset Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$109K - $189K/yr

Overview LMI seeks a Shipyard Site Lead/Asset Manager with experience in facility and ... to help our clients achieve their missions. As part of our high-performing team, you will be the ...

LMI

Shipyard Site Lead/Asset Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$109K - $189K/yr

Overview LMI seeks a Shipyard Site Lead/Asset Manager with experience in facility and ... to help our clients achieve their missions. As part of our high-performing team, you will be the ...

LMI

Shipyard Site Lead/Asset Manager

Norfolk, VA

$109K - $189K/yr

LMI seeks a Shipyard Site Lead/Asset Manager with experience in facility and infrastructure ... to help our clients achieve their missions. As part of our high-performing team, you will be the ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 7, 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 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?

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 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 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 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,414 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Welder Helper - Steel America (Job ID: 1423)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$17.18 - $19.81/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Welder Helper - Steel America
Purpose:
Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, is seeking a Welder Helper with flux-core (FCAW) welding certifications to support operations in Norfolk, VA.
Job Description:
  • Weld together metal components of products, as specified by blueprints, weld symbols, material markings, work order, welding procedures, or verbal instructions, using welding equipment.
  • Interpret and lay out blueprints, check and fit materials, tack weld of small assemblies, aluminum and steel foundations.
  • Erect units and install structural items on ship ways.
  • Physical assembly in prefabrication and erection on the building site of individual structural elements or prefabricated panels and three-dimensional sub-assemblies.
  • Prepare all material surfaces to be welded, ensuring that there is no loose or thick mil scale, slag, rust, moisture, grease, or other foreign matter.
  • Complete weld processes in flat, horizontal, vertical, or overhead positions.
  • Operate manual or semi-automatic welding equipment to fuse metal segments, using processes such as gas metal arc, flux-cored arc, shielded metal arc, and submerged arc welding.
  • Clean or degrease weld joint or work piece, using wire brush, portable grinder, or chemical bath. May repair broken or cracked parts and fill holes.
  • Set up and operate welding equipment and select proper electrodes according to material types to be joined and procedurally required.
  • Perform grinding and joint preparation for NDT processes.
  • Flux cored inner shield and dual shield welding along with oxy-acetylene torching, air-arc, weld-wire gas, stick and pipe flange.
  • Read and understand the Chemist and Competent Persons reports and determine if job sites, particularly those involving combustible material, are safe for personnel and hot work.
  • Will be required to wear personal protective equipment hard hat, safety glasses, steel toe boots/shoes and, when necessary, respirator.
  • Instruct apprentices and fellow welders with job assignments and overall mentoring.
  • Be able to perform duties with little to no supervision.
  • Maintain a high level of first pass through rate on production welding inspections.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Must have a Certificate of Welding from an accredited institution or least one (1) year of welding experience.
  • Must have OSHA 10.
  • Must be able to work overtime and weekends as required.
  • Must be able to work effectively and efficiently with others.
  • Must have ability to enter and move through manholes to reach and work in internally confined spaces.
  • Must be a steady and reliable worker that maintains regular and consistent attendance.
  • Must be able to follow instructions.

Qualifications:
  • Recent completion of an accredited welding program through ATDM, NASCAR Institute, Tidewater Tech, TCC, or similar institution, resulting in flux-core (FCAW) welding certifications, highly preferred.

Travel Requirements:
  • Minimal Travel; 10% or less.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • May ride ships at sea for extended periods
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
  • Frequent use of respirator.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.

Respect, Pride, Truth, Family - These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonna's Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Additionally, Colonna's Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid disability insurances, 401k with match, legal services, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).
Pay Range: $17.18 - $19.81
Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate's relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees' best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO).

Apply