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Shipyard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shipyard Mechanic

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Shipyard Mechanic (Boilermaker Support) Location: Norfolk, VA Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp-to-Hire Available Industry: Maritime / Ship Repair / Defense Position Summary LEAD Marine is ...

Trade Team is actively hiring experienced shipyard proffesionals for exciting opportunities in Wisconsin, Washignton, Virginia and Mississippi Pay range from $22.00-$38 per hour, depending on ...

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 compliance with regulatory laws. Responsibilities will include: * Supervision of safety staff and ...

Do you have prior experience working at a shipyard or in an outdoor hands on position? Do you enjoy working around the water and learning new trade skills? If so, this could be the right fit for you!

Description The Resolve Marine Shipyard Superintendent provides supervision and leadership when conducting shipyard projects on or off site in Dutch Harbor, AK. This position reports to the Facility ...

Elite Workforce LLC is seeking an experienced Marine Shipyard Foreman to oversee daily shipyard operations, supervise skilled trades personnel, and ensure all marine repair, maintenance, and ...

Shipyard Safety Coordinator

Harvey, LA ยท On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

As a Shipyard Safety Coordinator , you'll focus on supporting the daily safety operations within the shipyard to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for all employees, contractors, and ...

Shipyard Area Superintendent - Shipboard Operations & Repair Location: San Diego, CA (Shipyard) Position Type: Full-Time Pay Range: Competitive Salary (DOE) + Benefits Package Shift: 1st Shift ...

Thank you for your interest in a career with Conrad Shipyard. While we may not have an immediate opening that matches your background, we are always looking to connect with skilled and motivated ...

We're seeking talented Shipyard Structural Welders who are passionate about their craft and eager to contribute to meaningfulprojects in a supportive environment. *Candidates may need to pass a weld ...

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How much do shipyard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipyard in the United States is $25.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Shipyard vs Marine Welder?

AspectShipyardMarine Welder
CertificationsWelding certifications, OSHA safety trainingWelding certifications, marine-specific safety training
Work EnvironmentShipbuilding yards, docks, industrial settingsShip hulls, underwater repairs, marine vessels
Industry UsageShipbuilding, repair, and maintenanceMarine vessel construction, repair, and welding

Shipyard workers and marine welders both operate in shipbuilding environments and require welding certifications. However, marine welders often specialize in underwater welding and marine-specific safety protocols, whereas shipyard workers may focus more broadly on assembly and construction of ships. Both roles are essential in the maritime industry, with overlapping skills but distinct specializations.

What are some typical challenges faced when working in a shipyard environment?

Working in a shipyard can present unique challenges, such as exposure to outdoor elements, strict safety protocols, and coordination among multiple trades like welders, electricians, and engineers. Employees often need to adapt to variable schedules, including early mornings or overtime to meet project deadlines. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as projects require close collaboration to ensure vessels are built or repaired efficiently and safely. Those who embrace these challenges often find strong opportunities for skill development and career advancement within the maritime industry.

What is a shipyard?

Shipyards are specialized facilities where ships are constructed, repaired, and maintained. These industrial sites are equipped with docks, cranes, and machinery necessary to build everything from small boats to large commercial vessels and military ships. Shipyards play a crucial role in the maritime industry by ensuring that vessels are seaworthy and safe for operation. Workers in shipyards can include engineers, welders, electricians, and other skilled tradespeople. Shipyards are often located near waterways to facilitate easy launching and retrieval of ships.

What are the qualifications to work in a shipyard?

The qualifications to work in a shipyard vary depending on the type of work you do. Jobs are largely related to the maintenance, repair, and building of ships. Marine surveyors are often engineers who have an extensive background in some aspect of nautical design, such as mechanical, electrical, or civil engineers, as well as naval architects. Welding and fabrication workers need to have a high school diploma and advanced training, either through job experience or a formal apprenticeship. The same is true for other skilled laborers like plumbers and electricians. In addition to these qualifications, you need to have technical skills, strong verbal communication, and the ability to maintain a safe work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a shipyard role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a shipyard role, you need a solid understanding of ship construction and repair, technical drawing interpretation, and safety protocols, often supported by vocational training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with welding equipment, power tools, and shipyard management systems is commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this environment. These abilities are essential for maintaining safety, ensuring quality workmanship, and meeting project deadlines in the demanding shipbuilding industry.
What cities are hiring for Shipyard jobs? Cities with the most Shipyard job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Shipyard jobs? The most popular types of Shipyard jobs are:
What states have the most Shipyard jobs? States with the most job openings for Shipyard jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Shipyard jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Shipyard jobs are:
Infographic showing various Shipyard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,834 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Shipyard Mechanic

LEAD Staff

Norfolk, VA โ€ข On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Shipyard Mechanic (Boilermaker Support)

Location: Norfolk, VA

Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp-to-Hire Available

Industry: Maritime / Ship Repair / Defense

Position Summary

LEAD Marine is seeking experienced Shipyard Mechanics to support boilermaker operations on active ship repair and modernization projects in Norfolk, Virginia. This position is responsible for assisting with the repair, maintenance, installation, and fabrication of structural components, tanks, boilers, pressure vessels, and related shipboard systems aboard U.S. Navy, commercial, and government vessels.

The ideal candidate will possess strong mechanical aptitude, shipyard experience, and the ability to work safely in a fast-paced maritime environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assist boilermakers with the removal, repair, fabrication, and installation of shipboard structural components.
  • Perform mechanical repairs on tanks, foundations, hatches, bulkheads, and related equipment.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, sketches, and technical work documents.
  • Operate hand tools, power tools, grinders, pneumatic tools, and cutting equipment.
  • Assist with fitting, aligning, and securing steel components and assemblies.
  • Prepare surfaces for welding, cutting, and installation activities.
  • Conduct measurements and layouts using tape measures, levels, squares, and other precision tools.
  • Remove and replace damaged metal structures and equipment.
  • Work in confined spaces, tanks, voids, and other shipboard environments.
  • Maintain compliance with OSHA, NAVSEA, and shipyard safety requirements.
  • Perform housekeeping and maintain a clean work area.
  • Support project completion schedules and production goals.
Qualifications
  • Minimum 2 years of shipyard, industrial, or heavy mechanical experience preferred.
  • Previous experience supporting boilermakers, shipfitters, welders, or structural repair teams strongly preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and work specifications.
  • Familiarity with shipboard repair procedures and maritime safety standards.
  • Experience using common shipyard tools and equipment.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
  • Reliable transportation and ability to report to work consistently.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
  • Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, and enter confined spaces.
  • Ability to stand, kneel, crouch, bend, and work in various weather conditions for extended periods.
  • Must be capable of wearing required PPE, including respirators when necessary.
Requirements
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain shipyard access credentials (DBIDS preferred).
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Shipyard safety certifications are a plus.
Preferred Experience
  • U.S. Navy ship repair experience.
  • Experience working aboard aircraft carriers, submarines, destroyers, amphibious ships, or commercial vessels.
  • Knowledge of NAVSEA standards and military specifications.
  • Fire Watch, OSHA 10 Maritime, or Confined Space certifications.
Benefits
  • Competitive Pay
  • Weekly Pay
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Paid Holidays (where applicable)
  • Opportunities for Overtime
  • Long-Term Career Growth with a Leading Maritime Staffing Provider
About LEAD Marine

LEAD Marine specializes in providing highly skilled maritime and industrial trades professionals to shipyards, government contractors, and marine repair facilities nationwide. Our team connects experienced craftsmen with rewarding opportunities while supporting critical shipbuilding and repair projects throughout the United States.

Apply today and become part of a team helping keep America's fleet mission-ready.

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