ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Shipyard Painter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tidewater Staffing

Be Seen First

Shipyard Painter / Sprayer / Blaster

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking experienced Shipyard Painters, Sprayers and Blasters for work in Hampton Roads shipyards. We are seeking candidates highly experienced in surface preparation ...

Tidewater Staffing

Be Seen First

Shipyard Painter / Sprayer / Blaster

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking experienced Shipyard Painters, Sprayers and Blasters for work in Hampton Roads shipyards. We are seeking candidates highly experienced in surface preparation ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Shipyard Painter - A

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

$30/hr

The painter is responsible for painting components, equipment, interiors and exteriors of vessels using spray guns, brushes and rollers. Uses solvents to wash surfaces to remove grease, rust scale ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Shipyard Painter - A

Pascagoula, MS

$30/hr

The painter is responsible for painting components, equipment, interiors and exteriors of vessels using spray guns, brushes and rollers. Uses solvents to wash surfaces to remove grease, rust scale ...

Tidewater Staffing

Be Seen First

Marine Painter/Powertooler

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Marine Painter / Powertooler Shipyard Positions Available | Hampton Roads, VA We are actively seeking experienced Marine Painters / Powertoolers to support major shipyard operations throughout the ...

Aerotek

Industrial Painter

San Diego, CA

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Previous shipyard experience is preferred and will help in understanding shipboard environments and workflows. * Familiarity with spray painting, paint preparation, masking, and general labor tasks ...

Aerotek

Marine Painter

San Diego, CA

This role prepares and paints wood and metal surfaces on ships and shipyard structures, ensuring high-quality protective coatings that meet strict safety and technical standards. You will perform ...

Hutco Inc

Shipyard Laborer

Harvey, LA · On-site

$17/hr

Hutco Inc. is now accepting applications for Laborers for a shipyard located in Hahnville, LA. NO ... Removes paint and scale from ships' metal surfaces, using hand or powered wire brushes. Conveys ...

Aerotek

Painter Helper

San Diego, CA

$18 - $20/hr

Previous shipyard experience is preferred. * Knowledge of basic painting applications. * Must provide own tools. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of San Diego, CA.

PROLIM Global Corporation

Painter

Goose Creek, SC · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Work is typically performed in heavy industrial or shipyard environments such as Newport News Shipbuilding. Experience Required: * Minimum 5 years of industrial spray painting/coating experience

New

Prolim Global

Painter

Goose Creek, SC · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Work is typically performed in heavy industrial or shipyard environments such as Newport News Shipbuilding. Experience Required: * Minimum 5 years of industrial spray painting/coating experience

Trade Team

Be Seen First

Marine Painter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$24 - $25/hr

Paints parts, equipment and structural surfaces on interior and exterior of the ships and shipyard buildings. Mixes material in accordance with Product Data Sheet. Inspects prepared painted areas and ...

DERECKTOR FLORIDA INC

DDB Painter

Dania Beach, FL · On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

Work closely with other shipyard personnel, including welders and engineers, to coordinate tasks ... Proficiency in various painting techniques and familiarity with different types of marine coatings.

B&D Contracting

1st Class Blaster/Painter

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

$32 - $34/hr

Minimum 3 years of shipyard experience * Proven experience performing abrasive blasting (garnet ... Trade certification in blasting and painting * Experience on marine projects * Leadership or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsShipyard Painter Jobs

Shipyard Painter information

See salary details

$5

$22

$24

How much do shipyard painter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipyard painter in the United States is $22.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Shipyard Painter vs Marine Painter?

AspectShipyard PainterMarine Painter
CertificationsOSHA safety training, painter certificationsOSHA safety training, painter certifications
Work EnvironmentShipyards, docks, industrial sitesShips, docks, marine environments
Industry UsageShipbuilding, repair yardsCommercial and recreational ships
Job FocusApplying paint to ship structures during construction or repairPainting and coating of ships' surfaces for protection and aesthetics

Both Shipyard Painters and Marine Painters require similar certifications and work in related environments. The main difference lies in their focus: Shipyard Painters work primarily in shipbuilding and repair yards, while Marine Painters specialize in painting ships and vessels in marine settings. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right roles in the maritime industry.

What are shipyard painters?

Shipyard painters are skilled tradespeople responsible for preparing and painting ships, boats, and other marine structures. Their work includes cleaning, sanding, priming, and applying protective coatings to prevent corrosion and ensure the longevity of vessels. They often use specialized equipment and must follow strict safety and environmental regulations. Shipyard painters play a critical role in maintaining the appearance and structural integrity of ships.

How much do painters make at the shipyard?

Shipyard painters typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled painters who work with specialized coatings or have union membership may earn higher wages.

What Does a Shipyard Painter Do?

A shipyard painter works to prepare, paint, or repaint the surfaces of marine vessels and equipment. In this industrial painting specialty, you need to develop the skills to paint on the different surfaces used in shipbuilding. You may prep surfaces, apply paint, or remove previous colors from wood, fiberglass, or metal. Other preparation responsibilities may involve mixing paint to required specifications. Your duties could also include sanding, operating a blaster, scraping paint or imperfections from used boats, and applying other coatings, such as waterproof membranes or epoxy.

How much do cruise ship painters make?

Cruise ship painters typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and union membership. Skilled painters with certifications and safety training may earn higher wages, especially when working overtime or on specialized projects.

What does a shipyard painter do?

A shipyard painter applies protective coatings, paints, and finishes to ships and marine structures to prevent corrosion and improve appearance. They prepare surfaces by cleaning, sanding, and masking, and often use tools like spray guns and brushes in a marine environment, following safety and environmental regulations.

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

To thrive as a Shipyard Painter, you need expertise in surface preparation, knowledge of industrial painting techniques, and familiarity with safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Proficiency with spray guns, sandblasting equipment, and the use of protective coatings is critical, and some roles may require OSHA safety certifications. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and good teamwork skills help ensure quality finishes and safe, efficient project completion. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining vessel integrity, protecting against corrosion, and meeting safety and industry standards in demanding shipyard environments.

What are some common challenges faced by shipyard painters, and how can they be managed on the job?

Shipyard painters often work in challenging environments, such as tight spaces, high elevations, or outdoors in varying weather conditions. Managing these challenges involves strict adherence to safety protocols, effective use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and clear communication with supervisors and team members. Additionally, painters must be prepared to handle hazardous materials and ensure proper surface preparation to achieve quality results. Regular safety training and teamwork are essential for maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.

What is the highest paid painting job?

In the painting profession, industrial and commercial painters, including shipyard painters working on large-scale projects, tend to earn higher wages due to the specialized skills and hazardous environment involved. Senior or master painters with extensive experience and certifications can also command higher salaries, especially when working overtime or on complex projects. Overall, jobs in industrial settings and those requiring advanced skills typically offer the highest pay for painters.
More about Shipyard Painter jobs
What cities are hiring for Shipyard Painter jobs? Cities with the most Shipyard Painter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Shipyard Painter jobs? The most popular types of Shipyard Painter jobs are:
What states have the most Shipyard Painter jobs? States with the most job openings for Shipyard Painter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Shipyard Painter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Shipyard Painter jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Shipyard Painter jobs? For Shipyard Painter jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Shipyard Painter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shipyard Painter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,500 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Shipyard Painter / Sprayer / Blaster

Shipyard Painter / Sprayer / Blaster

Tidewater Staffing

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 19 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking experienced Shipyard Painters, Sprayers and Blasters for work in Hampton Roads shipyards.

We are seeking candidates highly experienced in surface preparation, abrasive blasting, industrial painting, and marine coating applications. Local and traveling candidates are encouraged to apply. Per diem may be available for qualified non-local candidates.

Job Duties

• Perform abrasive blasting to remove rust, scale, paint, and surface contaminants.
• Prepare shipboard and industrial surfaces for coating applications.
• Apply marine and industrial coatings using conventional and airless spray equipment.
• Mix paints, coatings, and related materials according to specifications.
• Mask, tape, and protect surrounding areas before blasting and painting operations.
• Perform touch-up work and coating repairs as needed.
• Inspect completed work for proper coverage and quality standards.
• Maintain blasting and painting equipment.
• Follow all shipyard safety requirements and PPE standards.
• Work aboard vessels, in dry docks, industrial facilities, confined spaces, and elevated work areas as required.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Shipyard Painter, Sprayer, Blaster, Marine Painter, or Industrial Painter.
• Experience operating blasting and spray painting equipment.
• Knowledge of surface preparation and coating application techniques.
• Ability to work in physically demanding shipyard environments.
• Ability to climb, lift, bend, stoop, and work in varying weather conditions.
• Reliable transportation and dependable attendance.
• Shipyard certifications are a plus but not required.

Why Work With Tidewater Staffing?

• Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications.
• Potential per diem opportunities for qualified non-local candidates.
• Opportunities available throughout Hampton Roads shipyards.
• Long-term and project-based assignments available.
• Work with a staffing company that understands the shipyard industry and skilled trades workforce.

Apply today to learn more about current opportunities.

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

View All Tidewater Staffing Jobs