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Shipyard Work Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Shipyard Build Strategy Engineer

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$120 - $170/hr

... shipyard itself is designed. This role sits at the intersection of product definition, build ... Ability to work early with incomplete information to shape irreversible facility decisions

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Southwest Shipyard owns and operates four (4) shipyards in South Texas with direct deep-water ... WORK SCHEDULE Regular attendance and punctuality are required of all employees. NIGHT SHIFT - 5 ...

Carpenter Helper

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Follow all safety procedures, including proper use of PPE and adherence to shipyard safety standards * Assist with layout work and basic carpentry tasks as directed * Perform general labor duties ...

Showing results 21-40

Shipyard Work information

See Texas salary details

$17

$24

$38

How much do shipyard work jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipyard work in Texas is $24.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is shipyard work?

Shipyard work involves the construction, repair, maintenance, and overhaul of ships and other marine vessels. Employees in shipyards may perform tasks such as welding, metal fabrication, painting, electrical work, and mechanical repairs. Shipyard workers often specialize in trades like shipfitting, pipefitting, or marine engineering, and work in environments that require strict safety protocols. The job is physically demanding and can involve working outdoors in various weather conditions, sometimes with exposure to hazardous materials. Shipyard work is crucial for supporting commercial shipping, naval defense, and offshore industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in shipyard work?

To thrive in shipyard work, you generally need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by trade school or apprenticeship training. Familiarity with welding equipment, power tools, cranes, and safety protocols, as well as OSHA or similar safety certifications, is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality construction or repair of ships and marine structures.

What are some common challenges faced by shipyard workers, and how can they be managed?

Shipyard workers often face challenges such as exposure to harsh weather conditions, heavy physical labor, and strict safety regulations. Managing these challenges includes proper use of personal protective equipment, adherence to safety protocols, and ongoing safety training. Additionally, effective communication and teamwork are crucial for coordinating tasks and minimizing risks in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Many shipyards also provide support resources and regular briefings to help workers stay informed and safe.

What is the difference between Shipyard Work vs Marine Technician?

AspectShipyard WorkMarine Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in welding, rigging, safetyHigh school diploma, certifications in marine systems, electrical, engine repair
Work EnvironmentShipyards, docks, construction sitesMarinas, repair shops, on-site at vessels
Industry UsageConstruction, repair, and maintenance of ships and boatsRepair and maintenance of marine engines and systems

Shipyard work involves constructing, repairing, and maintaining ships in shipyards or docks, focusing on structural and assembly tasks. Marine technicians specialize in diagnosing and repairing marine engines and systems, often working directly on vessels or in repair facilities. Both roles require technical skills and certifications but differ in their specific focus and work environments.

How to get hired at the shipyard?

To get hired at a shipyard, applicants should have relevant skills such as welding, carpentry, or mechanical work, and often need to pass physical exams and safety training. Applying through the company's job postings, local unions, or staffing agencies increases chances, and prior experience or certifications like OSHA safety training can improve prospects.

What are the different jobs in a shipyard?

Shipyard jobs include roles such as welders, pipefitters, electricians, carpenters, painters, and shipbuilders. These positions require skills in metalworking, assembly, and safety procedures, often involving the use of specialized tools and equipment. Workers typically need safety certifications and may work in shifts depending on project schedules.
Infographic showing various Shipyard Work job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,155 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Forklift Operator - Brady Island

Southwest Shipyard

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY OF COMPANY
Southwest Shipyard, LP provides gas freeing and cleaning services, steaming, and flaring services, Barge and boat repair, Surface preparation and painting, water treatment and new construction services to the commercial and government marine industry. 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 Quality, Safety and Environmental Excellence. Our motto is "Faster, Safer, Better".
JOB SUMMARY
This position is primarily responsible for the operation of a Telehandler Forklift (10-12,000 lb. capacity) daily.
Day Shift
RESPONSIBILITIES
A forklift operator at Southwest Shipyard will have duties consisting of the following:
  • Collect and deliver a wide variety of materials.
  • Inspects equipment, in accordance with forklift checklist procedures, to ensure it is properly maintained and safe to operate.
  • Perform preventive and operating maintenance such as checking fluid levels, greasing and cleaning the equipment.
  • Maintain cleanliness of grounds, such as emptying dumpsters, moving pallets, etc.
  • Communicates any issues with the equipment to a supervisor or maintenance staff.
  • Adheres to good safety practices while carrying out duties
  • Must have excellent communication skills and take directions from Foreman and Supervisors.
  • Follows all company safety requirements and policies.
  • Performs any additional duties as assigned which may or may not include operating a forklift.
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
  • 2 years of forklift experience preferred.
  • Experience operating additional equipment such as other forklifts, loaders, and bobcats preferred but not required.
  • Previous experience working in a shipyard or maritime industry is a plus.
  • Bilingual (Spanish/English) ability preferred but not required.
  • Must have good judgment skills and a good work ethic.
  • Must be able to meet attendance requirements.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable workplace accommodation. The employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts, and regularly works in outside weather conditions.
The individual must properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required. This includes hard hat, safety glasses, reflective vest, respirators, ear plugs, steel toed shoes, personal flotation devices (PFD's), or other protective equipment as required by the work performed and location the work is being conducted.
In addition, Crane Operators must also be capable of:
  • Walking, stepping, climbing, or otherwise moving from one location on the job site to another, which may be of varying heights and access parameters.
  • Accessing and exiting machines safely.
  • Standing, stooping, bending, crouching, kneeling, squatting, climbing, or sitting for long periods of time.
  • Repetitive movements by feet, shoulders, arms, wrists, hands and back in performance of work.
  • Climbing vertical ladders of a height of 6ft or greater.
  • Working in confined work areas and/or elevated heights.
  • Lifting objects of minimum of 10lbs, with maximum single-person lift limit of 50lbs, with frequent lifting and carrying.
  • Adapting to temperature changes, outdoor conditions, and prolonged exposure to dusty, wet, or humid conditions, loud noises, and vibration.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus; 20/20 vision (naturally or with corrective lenses).

EEO Statement
Southwest Shipyard, LP is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Southwest Shipyard, LP participates in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.
Southwest Shipyard, LP is not currently accepting unsolicited resumes from search firms. Regardless of past practice, all resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Southwest Shipyard, LP, via-email, the Internet or directly to hiring managers at Southwest Shipyard, LP in any form without a valid written agreement in place for that specific position will be deemed the sole property of Southwest Shipyard, LP. As a result, no fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Southwest Shipyard, LP.