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Shipyard Laborer 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 ... labor and support tasks as assigned. Qualifications • Active Secret Security Clearance preferred ...

Main Industries

Shipyard General Laborer

Hampton, VA

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Previous general labor, construction, shipyard, marine, industrial, manufacturing, or related experience preferred but not required. * Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended ...

New

Main Industries

Shipyard General Laborer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Previous general labor, construction, shipyard, marine, industrial, manufacturing, or related experience preferred but not required. * Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended ...

New

Main Industries

Shipyard General Laborer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Previous general labor, construction, shipyard, marine, industrial, manufacturing, or related experience preferred but not required. * Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended ...

New

Main Industries

Shipyard General Laborer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/wk

Previous general labor, construction, shipyard, marine, industrial, manufacturing, or related experience preferred but not required. * Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended ...

New

Main Industries

$15 - $19/hr

Previous general labor, construction, shipyard, marine, industrial, manufacturing, or related experience preferred but not required. * Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended ...

New

Chipton Ross

Shipyard Recruiter

Newport News, VA · On-site

Stay informed on labor market conditions and shipyard industry trends to support strategic staffing initiatives. Preferred Qualifications: * Experience supporting NAVSEA, MARAD, DoD, or commercial ...

Global 1st Flagship

Shipyard Rigger

Portsmouth, VA

$23.25 - $30/hr

This opportunity involves hands-on labor working at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, offering a dynamic and fast-paced environment for experienced professionals. Note : This position is contingent upon ...

Global 1st Flagship

Shipyard Rigger

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

This opportunity involves hands-on labor working at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, offering a dynamic and fast-paced environment for experienced professionals. Note : This position is contingent upon ...

Global 1st Flagship

Shipyard Rigger

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

This opportunity involves hands-on labor working at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, offering a dynamic and fast-paced environment for experienced professionals. Note : This position is contingent upon ...

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All JobsShipyard Laborer JobsShipyard Laborer Jobs in Virginia

Shipyard Laborer information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$20

$22

How much do shipyard laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipyard laborer in Virginia is $20.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $20.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a shipyard laborer do?

A shipyard laborer performs physical tasks such as loading and unloading materials, assisting with ship construction and repair, and maintaining the work environment. They often use hand tools and safety equipment and work in a physically demanding, outdoor setting. Basic knowledge of safety protocols and physical fitness are important for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by shipyard laborers and how can they be managed effectively?

Shipyard laborers often work in physically demanding environments, frequently exposed to varying weather conditions, loud noise, and heavy machinery. One of the main challenges is maintaining safety while performing tasks such as welding, lifting, or working in confined spaces. Effective management involves following strict safety protocols, wearing appropriate protective equipment, and participating in regular safety training. Additionally, collaborating closely with team members and supervisors helps ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Shipyard Laborer vs Shipyard Welder?

AspectShipyard LaborerShipyard Welder
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic OSHA 10 or 30Welding certifications (e.g., AWS certification), OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentGeneral shipyard, assisting with materials, cleaning, and support tasksWelding stations, metal fabrication areas, ship construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in shipyards, construction, and maintenanceSpecialized in metal welding, shipbuilding, and repair projects

Shipyard Laborers perform general support tasks in shipyards, while Shipyard Welders focus on welding and metal fabrication. Both roles are essential in shipbuilding and maintenance, but Welders require specialized certifications and work in more technical areas.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Shipyard laborers can sometimes earn around $4,000 a week through overtime, high-demand projects, or union wages, especially in large shipyards or during peak seasons. These roles typically require physical strength, safety training, and experience rather than formal degrees, and pay varies based on location, skill level, and hours worked.

What are shipyard laborers?

Shipyard laborers are workers who assist with various tasks involved in building, repairing, and maintaining ships and other vessels within a shipyard. Their duties may include cleaning and preparing work areas, moving materials and equipment, assisting skilled tradespeople, and performing basic construction or maintenance tasks. Shipyard laborers play a vital support role, ensuring that projects run smoothly and safely. They often work in physically demanding environments and must follow strict safety protocols. No formal education is typically required, but on-the-job training is provided.

What Is a Shipyard Laborer?

Shipyard laborer is an umbrella term for someone that works at a dock and completes a variety of duties related to boats and shipping. Your main responsibilities in this career revolve around helping the shipping process to run smoothly. You may use loading equipment or a vehicle like a forklift to move cargo like lumber from trucks to a boat, or your responsibilities may be more in maintenance, like cleaning the dry dock or assisting with construction projects. Experience with hand tools is crucial for this career, as you may be responsible for completing a wide range of tasks.

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

To thrive as a Shipyard Laborer, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, and familiarity with safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with power tools, forklifts, cranes, and adherence to OSHA safety regulations are commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to follow instructions set outstanding laborers apart. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining safety, efficiency, and productivity in demanding shipyard environments.

How much money do shipyard workers make?

Shipyard laborers typically earn an average hourly wage between $15 and $25, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and specific skills. Skilled workers with certifications or specialized tools may earn higher wages, especially in shipbuilding or repair environments.

How to get hired at the shipyard?

To get hired as a shipyard laborer, applicants should have physical stamina, basic safety knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Applying through local job boards, staffing agencies, or directly at shipyard hiring events is common, and possessing certifications like OSHA safety training can improve chances. Experience in construction or industrial work is also beneficial.
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Shipyard Laborer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shipyard Laborer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,877 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
Secret Clearance Shipyard Workers

Secret Clearance Shipyard Workers

Tidewater Staffing

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 2 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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