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Shipyard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shipyard Rigger

Portsmouth, VA ยท On-site

$30 - $35/hr

We are currently seeking skilled Shipyard Riggers for a potential 5-year project in Norfolk, VA. This opportunity involves hands-on labor working at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, offering a dynamic and ...

The Beth in Hingham Shipyard is hiring Servers to join our team! We are looking for candidates with weekday lunchtime availability and prior experience in a high-volume restaurant. The Beth Kitchen ...

Conduct pipe repairs, replacements, and new installations according to NAVSEA and shipyard standards * Operate hand tools, grinders, torches, and welding equipment safely and efficiently * Maintain ...

Be Seen First

We are looking for Shipyard Experienced Workers for work in Seattle, Washington. MUST HAVE SHIPYARD EXPERIENCE In in their Craft MUST BE A US CITIZEN or Permanent Resident MUST Pass a 10 year ...

The Beth in Hingham Shipyard is hiring Bartenders to join our team! Who we are: The Beth Kitchen & Bar is a lively restaurant at the historic Hingham Shipyard with a coastal-inspired, spacious ...

Shipyard Welder

Salisbury, MD ยท On-site

$21 - $30/hr

Description Chesapeake Shipbuilding Corp is seeking a dedicated and safety-conscious Shipyard Welder to support the construction of high-quality, new-build cruise ships. The ideal candidate will ...

Shipyard Welder

Salisbury, MD ยท On-site

$21 - $30/hr

Chesapeake Shipbuilding Corp is seeking a dedicated and safety-conscious Shipyard Welder to support the construction of high-quality, new-build cruise ships. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a ...

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Shipyard information

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How much do shipyard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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 are shipyards?

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:
Infographic showing various Shipyard job openings in the United States as of July 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 Rigger

Global 1st Flagship

Portsmouth, VA โ€ข On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Here at Global - a 1st Flagship Company (www.globalfirstflagship.com), a woman-owned small business, we are committed to Individual Accountability, Growth, Integrity, and Respect. As a leader in Marine Support Services and Emergency Management, we have proudly supported the Department of the Navy since 1964, managing, operating, and maintaining the U.S. Navy fleet in locations such as Norfolk, Philadelphia, Bremerton, California, and Hawaii.
We are currently seeking skilled Shipyard Riggers for a potential 5-year project in Norfolk, VA. This opportunity involves hands-on labor working at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, offering a dynamic and fast-paced environment for experienced professionals.
Note: This position is contingent upon contract award. Employment will begin only if and when the company secures the government contract associated with this role.
Overview:
Handle lifting, rigging, and movement of heavy shipboard equipment and materials.
Responsibilities:
  • Set up rigging and lifting devices for equipment moves.
  • Operate cranes, hoists, and rigging gear safely.
  • Follow load charts and weight handling procedures.
  • Support shipyard operations with material handling.

Qualifications:
  • Active DoD Secret clearance required.
  • 2+ years of rigging/weight handling experience on Navy vessels.
  • Knowledge of Navy/OSHA weight handling standards.
  • Ability to work at high heights and confined spaces.
  • Ability to work 1st, 2nd and 3rd shift.

Global- a 1st Flagship Company is an E-Verify and is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with disability.
As a federal contractor all employment offers are contingent on passing a pre-employment background check and drug screen.