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Shipyard Sheet Metal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$30.11/hr

You will serve as a SHEET METAL MECHANIC LEADER (EXPERT) in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Norfolk Naval Shipyard, and Pearl ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$30.11/hr

You will serve as a SHEET METAL MECHANIC LEADER (EXPERT) in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Norfolk Naval Shipyard, and Pearl ...

US Department of the Navy

$30.11/hr

You will serve as a SHEET METAL MECHANIC LEADER (EXPERT) in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Norfolk Naval Shipyard, and Pearl ...

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Shipyard Sheet Metal information

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$19

$29

$41

How much do shipyard sheet metal jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipyard sheet metal in the United States is $29.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.52 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a shipyard sheet metal worker?

Shipyard sheet metal workers are skilled tradespeople who fabricate, install, and repair metal structures and components used in ships and marine vessels. They work with various types of metal, such as steel and aluminum, to create items like ventilation systems, bulkheads, and hull components. Their job involves reading blueprints, measuring materials, cutting and shaping metal, and assembling finished products according to strict safety and quality standards. Shipyard sheet metal workers play a vital role in shipbuilding and maintenance, ensuring that vessels are structurally sound and meet regulatory requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a shipyard sheet metal worker?

To thrive as a Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker, you need strong skills in metal fabrication, blueprint reading, and welding, often supported by vocational training or an apprenticeship. Proficiency in using tools such as shears, brakes, plasma cutters, and familiarity with safety systems and certifications like OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving are vital soft skills for ensuring precise work and effective collaboration in challenging environments. These skills are crucial for maintaining structural integrity, safety, and productivity in shipbuilding and repair projects.

What are some common challenges faced by shipyard sheet metal workers, and how can they overcome them?

Shipyard Sheet Metal workers often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, exposure to varying weather conditions, and handling heavy materials. Effective communication with team members and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential to mitigate risks. Staying organized, using proper personal protective equipment (PPE), and participating in ongoing training can help workers adapt to evolving project requirements and maintain high-quality workmanship.

What is the difference between Shipyard Sheet Metal vs Shipyard Pipefitter?

AspectShipyard Sheet MetalShipyard Pipefitter
CertificationsOSHA, OSHA 10/30, possibly AWSOSHA, AWS, pipefitting-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentShipyards, manufacturing plants, fabrication shopsShipyards, construction sites, industrial facilities
Job FocusFabricating, installing, and repairing sheet metal componentsAssembling, installing, and maintaining piping systems
Tools & SkillsSheet metal tools, cutting, bending, weldingPiping tools, welding, fitting, blueprint reading

While both roles work in shipyard environments and require welding and safety certifications, Shipyard Sheet Metal primarily focuses on fabricating and installing sheet metal components, whereas Shipyard Pipefitters specialize in piping systems installation and maintenance. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the shipbuilding industry.

How to get hired at the shipyard?

To get hired as a shipyard sheet metal worker, applicants should have relevant experience or training in sheet metal fabrication, welding, and safety procedures. Completing a vocational program or apprenticeship can improve chances, and employers often require OSHA safety certification. Applying through job boards, company websites, or local unions is common, along with demonstrating strong technical skills and reliability during interviews.

What states have the most Shipyard Sheet Metal jobs?

States with the most job openings for Shipyard Sheet Metal jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Shipyard Sheet Metal jobs?

For Shipyard Sheet Metal jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Shipyard Sheet Metal job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,803 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

SHEET METAL MECHANIC LEADER (EXPERT)

On-site

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)
Public Administration • 10K+ employees
Learn more about U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)external

$30.11/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 540 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 50 rated military and defense

Job description

You will serve as a SHEET METAL MECHANIC LEADER (EXPERT) in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Norfolk Naval Shipyard, and Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility.
This position is located in Shop 17.
Applicants will only be considered for positions within their own UIC. For example: If you are within UIC 4523A, you will only be considered for positions within 4523A.Qualifications:Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the job elements and screen out listed below.
This job has a screen-out element which will be used to determine minimum eligibility for this job. Applicants who do not receive a minimum of two points on the screen-out element(s) will be found ineligible. The Screen-out Element for this position is: ABILITY TO LEAD OR SUPERVISE.
Applicants must meet the requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Job Qualification Handbook for Trades and Labor Occupations. Additional qualification information can be found at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/federal-wage-system-qualifications/#url=List-of-Approved-Job-Elements
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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