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Shipyard Helper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Welder Helper

Channelview, TX · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Southwest Shipyard owns and operates four (4) shipyards in South Texas with direct deep-water access to the Gulf of Mexico. We take pride in our dedicated and experienced workforce that focuses on ...

Helpdesk Support Technician

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

Ensure that all Hanwha Philly Shipyard safety procedures, rules and regulations are followed and ... Respond to help desk calls from internal and field employees, providing problem resolution through ...

Welder Helper

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Southwest Shipyard owns and operates four (4) shipyards in South Texas with direct deep-water access to the Gulf of Mexico. We take pride in our dedicated and experienced workforce that focuses on ...

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 ...

Helper

Bayou La Batre, AL · On-site

$20.25/hr

This position is located at our Bayou La Batre, AL facility.  Our Helpers are an integral piece ... Move, stage, and secure materials, tools, and equipment throughout the shipyard * Clean and prepare ...

Rigger Helper-2101

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Rigger Helper Location: San Diego, CA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC ... Prior rigging, material handling, or shipyard/naval vessel experience preferred. * Ability to ...

Rigger Helper-2101

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Rigger Helper Location: San Diego, CA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC ... Prior rigging, material handling, or shipyard/naval vessel experience preferred. * Ability to ...

Rigger Helper-2101

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Rigger Helper Location: San Diego, CA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC ... Prior rigging, material handling, or shipyard/naval vessel experience preferred. * Ability to ...

Rigger Helper-2101

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Rigger Helper Location: San Diego, CA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC ... Prior rigging, material handling, or shipyard/naval vessel experience preferred. * Ability to ...

Rigger Helper-2101

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Rigger Helper Location: San Diego, CA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC ... Prior rigging, material handling, or shipyard/naval vessel experience preferred. * Ability to ...

Rigger Helper-2101

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Rigger Helper Location: San Diego, CA Company: NSC Staffing Send resumes to: [email protected] NSC ... Prior rigging, material handling, or shipyard/naval vessel experience preferred. * Ability to ...

Showing results 21-40

Shipyard Helper information

See salary details

$12

$15

$17

How much do shipyard helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipyard helper in the United States is $15.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $15.62 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.
More about Shipyard Helper jobs

What cities are hiring for Shipyard Helper jobs?

Cities with the most Shipyard Helper job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Shipyard jobs?

The most popular types of Shipyard jobs are:

What states have the most Shipyard Helper jobs?

States with the most job openings for Shipyard Helper jobs include:

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

The top searched job categories for Shipyard Helper jobs are:

Infographic showing various Shipyard Helper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,273 per year, or $15 per hour.

Shipfitter Helper - Steel America (Job ID: 1446)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

$17.18 - $19.81/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Shipfitter Helper - Steel America
Purpose:
As a Shipfitter at Steel America, a business unit of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will assist in the fabrication, assembly, and installation of structural components and systems aboard ships, within shipyard facilities, and in heavy industrial environments. This role involves working with steel and other metals to build and repair ship sections, following blueprints, and ensuring structural integrity. under the guidance of senior shipfitters or supervisors.
Job Description:
  • Assist in cutting and fabricating metal components using various tools and machinery, including burning torches, saws and shears.
  • Interpret and lay out blueprints, check and fit materials, tack weld of small assemblies, aluminum and steel foundations.
  • Assist shipfitters by preparing materials, fitting components, and ensuring proper alignment.
  • Assemble and install structural components such as bulkheads, frames, and decks, ensuring proper alignment and fit according to project specifications.
  • Help with cutting metal using torches, saws, shears, and other cutting tools.
  • Perform tack welding to secure parts in place prior to final welding.
  • Will be required to wear personal protective equipment hard hat, safety glasses, steel toe boots/shoes and, when necessary, respirator.
  • Instruct apprentices and fellow shipfitters with job assignments and overall mentoring.
  • Be able to perform duties with little to no supervision.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Must have a Certificate of Welding from an accredited institution or least one (1) year of welding experience or at least 1 year of experience shipfitting, in a marine or shipyard environment.
  • 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.

Preferred Skills/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).