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Shipyard Worker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

pcg

Shipyard Worker/Hull Trainee

San Diego, CA

$21.97/hr

All newly hired personnel function under the guidance of experienced team members, not limited to Shipyard Workers, Trainees, Craftsmen, Apprentices, and Journeymen. Routine job responsibilities ...

pcg

Shipyard Worker/Hull Trainee

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21.97/hr

All newly hired personnel function under the guidance of experienced team members, not limited to Shipyard Workers, Trainees, Craftsmen, Apprentices, and Journeymen. Routine job responsibilities ...

LEAD Staffing

Shipyard Area Manager

National City, CA

$67K - $90K/yr

San Diego, CA (Shipyard) Position Type: Full-Time / Direct Placement & Extended Contract Options ... Strong working knowledge of ship systems, trade responsibilities, line management, and shipboard ...

Lead Staffing

Shipyard Area Manager

National City, CA · On-site

$67K - $90K/yr

San Diego, CA (Shipyard) Position Type: Full-Time / Direct Placement & Extended Contract Options ... Strong working knowledge of ship systems, trade responsibilities, line management, and shipboard ...

Trade Team

Be Seen First

Riggers Shipyard

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

... shipyard. 4. Tests and installs rigging equipment. 5. Sets up tools and equipment at job site an ... Ability to give proper hand signals to crane operators and other workers. Marginal Job Tasks None ...

Ameri-Force

Shipyard Painter - C12

San Diego, CA

$26/hr

Paints parts, equipment and structural surfaces on interior and exterior of the ships and shipyard ... and worker's compensation. In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including ...

Ameri-Force

Shipyard Painter - C12

San Diego, CA

$26/hr

Paints parts, equipment and structural surfaces on interior and exterior of the ships and shipyard ... and worker's compensation. In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including ...

SBSBTC

Laborer

National City, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

... shipyard workers and trades as required. Candidate can work in confined spaces and has no problem working long hours and weekends. Must be in San Diego California, we are not looking to relocate ...

US Department of the Navy

RIGGING WORKER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$24.71/hr

You will serve as a RIGGING WORKER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Trident Refit Facility Bangor and ...

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Shipyard Worker information

See California salary details

$11

$23

$31

How much do shipyard worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipyard worker in California is $23.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a shipyard worker?

A Shipyard Worker is responsible for building, repairing, and maintaining ships, boats, and other marine vessels. Their tasks can include welding, painting, assembling, and inspecting components to ensure structural integrity. Shipyard Workers often specialize in trades such as welding, electrical work, or pipefitting. This job typically takes place in a shipyard environment, requiring physical labor and adherence to strict safety regulations. It is a vital role in the maritime and defense industries.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a shipyard worker?

To thrive as a Shipyard Worker, you need practical skills in manual labor, mechanical aptitude, and a basic understanding of ship construction or repair, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with tools like welding equipment, cranes, and forklifts, as well as safety certifications such as OSHA or confined space training, is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and communication skills help a worker excel in fast-paced, collaborative environments. These abilities are essential for maintaining safety, producing quality work, and ensuring that complex projects stay on schedule in a physically demanding workplace.

What are some common challenges shipyard workers face on the job?

Shipyard Workers often encounter physically demanding tasks, such as heavy lifting, working in confined spaces, or enduring various weather conditions, which requires good physical fitness and adherence to safety protocols. Another challenge is the need to coordinate with diverse teams including welders, electricians, and engineers, requiring effective communication and collaboration skills. Additionally, the fast-paced environment means deadlines can be tight, so efficiency and adaptability are important. Overcoming these challenges helps foster a safer, more productive workplace and can open doors to advancement within the shipbuilding industry.

Do shipyard workers make good money?

Shipyard workers typically earn wages that are above the national average for manufacturing and construction jobs, with pay rates varying based on experience, location, and skill level. Many positions also offer overtime opportunities and benefits, which can increase overall compensation. Skilled workers with certifications or specialized skills tend to earn higher wages.

How do you become a shipyard worker?

To become a shipyard worker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require specialized skills or certifications such as OSHA safety training or welding licenses. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level roles can also help, and physical fitness is important due to the demanding work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Shipyard Worker jobs in California?

For Shipyard Worker jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Shipyard Worker jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Shipyard Worker jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Shipyard Worker jobs?

Cities in California with the most Shipyard Worker job openings:

Shipyard Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shipyard Worker job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 70% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,453 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Shipyard Worker/Hull Trainee

pcg

San Diego, CA

$21.97/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Description

PCI’s San Diego Marine 108 branch is seeking hard-working, motivated, career-minded persons to become valued members of our team. Employees at PCI are provided an opportunity to have a life-long career with a company that values employee contributions and strives to enhance employee well-being.

This position is responsible for providing labor support for experienced carpenters and/or insulators. In the meantime, employees will develop personal skills. No experience is necessary for this position, but prior construction experience is beneficial. Entry-level personnel will learn insulation removal and/or installation on the job whenever feasible. Employees will also have opportunities to participate in formal skills training classes. Insulation work performed on the job will be reviewed and evaluated by supervisors. All newly hired personnel function under the guidance of experienced team members, not limited to Shipyard Workers, Trainees, Craftsmen, Apprentices, and Journeymen. 

Routine job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Conveying material to various locations throughout the jobsite
  • Organizing and maintaining clean work areas
  • Performing basic insulation installation, coating application, taping, and removal
  • On-the-job training offered

Tools will be provided to entry level workers. Such tools are company owned and will be replaced at employee expense if lost or damaged due to employee negligence. If no longer effective due to normal wear and tear, tools will be replaced at company expense.

This is an entry-level position with starting pay at $21.97 per hour, plus benefits. Wage progression occurs at certain attained hours or at the discretion of the Superintendent.

This position is safety-sensitive.

Basic Requirements

  • No previous experience required
  • Employees will be required to join the applicable labor union, Local 5 or Local 721
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Able to withstand prolonged periods standing and working outside
  • Physically able to perform assigned tasks
  • Must be able to lift 40 pounds at a time

Preferred Requirements

  • Prior experience in the construction industry
  • Local to the San Diego area

Apply