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Shipyard Workers Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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We are actively recruiting for Fire Preventers, Shipyard Helpers, Material Handlers, and other shipyard support positions requiring or benefiting from security clearance experience. Additional ...

Be Seen First

We are actively recruiting for Fire Preventers, Shipyard Helpers, Material Handlers, and other shipyard support positions requiring or benefiting from security clearance experience. Additional ...

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 ...

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 ...

SHIPYARD LABORER Will perform general labor work to support marine and shipyard operations ... Working areas are tight, enclosed, and do not allow a great deal of space from time to time. All ...

Hutco Inc. is now accepting applications for Laborers for a shipyard located in Hahnville, LA. NO ... Cleans ships, piers, drydocks, and other working areas, using broom and water hose. Opens shipping ...

Laborer

National City, CA

$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 ...

Shipyard Mechanic (Boilermaker Support) Location: Norfolk, VA Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp ... Experience working aboard aircraft carriers, submarines, destroyers, amphibious ships, or ...

Shipyard Mechanic

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Shipyard Mechanic (Boilermaker Support) Location: Norfolk, VA Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp ... Experience working aboard aircraft carriers, submarines, destroyers, amphibious ships, or ...

Working knowledge of shipyard roles and required trade skills. Experience with high-volume or contract staffing is a strong plus. Strong communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving ...

The Shipyard Safety Supervisor will be self-directed and follow and enforce safety regulations in ... Recognize and educate personnel on existing and potential hazards to workers and/or the environment.

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Shipyard Workers information

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How much do shipyard workers jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipyard workers in the United States is $20.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Shipyard Workers vs Welders?

AspectShipyard WorkersWelders
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, welding certification
Work EnvironmentShipyards, outdoor and indoorFabrication shops, construction sites, outdoor/indoor
Industry UsageShipbuilding, repair, maintenanceManufacturing, construction, repair
Job FocusAssisting with ship assembly, maintenancePerforming welding tasks on ships or structures

Shipyard Workers and Welders often work together in shipbuilding and repair environments. While Shipyard Workers handle various tasks including assisting with assembly and maintenance, Welders focus specifically on welding components. Both roles require safety training and are essential in the maritime industry, but Welders have specialized certification for welding tasks.

What are the different jobs in a shipyard?

Shipyard workers include a variety of roles such as welders, carpenters, pipefitters, electricians, painters, and riggers, each specializing in different aspects of ship construction and repair. These jobs often require specific skills, certifications, and knowledge of tools and safety procedures, and workers typically operate in a team environment on large vessels or structures.

What are shipyard workers?

Shipyard workers are skilled laborers who are responsible for building, repairing, and maintaining ships and other marine vessels. Their duties can include welding, electrical work, carpentry, painting, and operating heavy machinery. They often work in teams in shipyards, which are specialized facilities located near bodies of water. Shipyard workers play a critical role in ensuring that ships are seaworthy and safe for use. The job can be physically demanding and may require adherence to strict safety protocols.

What shipyard job pays the most?

In shipyards, the highest-paying jobs are typically supervisory roles such as shipyard managers, project managers, and senior engineers, which require extensive experience and specialized skills. Skilled trades like welders, especially those with certifications and experience in complex tasks, can also earn high wages. These positions often offer higher pay due to the technical expertise and responsibility involved.

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

To thrive as a Shipyard Worker, you need a solid understanding of shipbuilding techniques, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or relevant trade certification. Familiarity with tools such as welding equipment, cranes, and safety systems is typically required, and OSHA safety training is highly valued. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help ensure safety and efficiency on the job. These skills and qualities are critical for maintaining workplace safety, meeting production deadlines, and ensuring high-quality vessel construction or repair.

How much do shipyard workers get paid?

Shipyard workers typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $15 to $30, depending on experience, location, and specific skills such as welding or pipefitting. Salaries can also vary based on union membership and overtime opportunities in the shipbuilding environment.

What are the typical safety challenges shipyard workers face, and how are they managed on the job?

Shipyard workers often encounter safety challenges such as heavy machinery operation, working at heights, exposure to loud noises, and handling hazardous materials. To manage these risks, shipyards implement strict safety protocols, provide personal protective equipment, and conduct regular safety training sessions. Workers are also encouraged to participate in safety briefings and report any hazards immediately, fostering a culture of vigilance and teamwork. Adhering to these guidelines helps minimize accidents and ensures a safer work environment for everyone.

How do you get a job at a shipyard?

To get a job as a shipyard worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and sometimes relevant skills such as welding, carpentry, or metalworking. Applying through local unions, contractors, or directly to shipyard companies, along with demonstrating safety awareness and willingness to work in a physically demanding environment, can improve chances of employment.
More about Shipyard Workers jobs
What cities are hiring for Shipyard Workers jobs? Cities with the most Shipyard Workers job openings:
What states have the most Shipyard Workers jobs? States with the most job openings for Shipyard Workers jobs include:
Infographic showing various Shipyard Workers job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,248 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Secret Clearance Shipyard Workers

Secret Clearance Shipyard Workers

Tidewater Staffing

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 26 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