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Submarine Construction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Dynamics Electric Boat

Department 460 ELO is seeking highly motivated candidates to support submarine construction activities for the COLUMBIA Class. D460 ELO is responsible for the resolution of COLUMBIA design issues ...

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Submarine Construction information

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How much do submarine construction jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for submarine construction in the United States is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Submarine Construction vs Submarine Maintenance?

AspectSubmarine ConstructionSubmarine Maintenance
Required CredentialsTechnical certifications, engineering degreesTechnical certifications, engineering or specialized training
Work EnvironmentConstruction yards, shipbuilding facilitiesShipyards, dockyards, onboard submarines
Industry UsageBuilding new submarines from design to launchRepairing, inspecting, and maintaining existing submarines

Submarine Construction involves building new submarines from design to launch, requiring engineering skills and working in shipbuilding facilities. Submarine Maintenance focuses on repairing and maintaining existing submarines, often in shipyards or onboard vessels. Both roles require technical expertise but differ mainly in their focus on new build versus ongoing upkeep.

What company builds submarines?

Several companies build submarines, with the largest being naval contractors like Huntington Ingalls Industries and Naval Group, which produce military submarines. Commercial submarine construction is often handled by specialized shipbuilding firms such as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Fincantieri. These companies employ skilled engineers and use advanced manufacturing tools to design and assemble submarines for defense and research purposes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in submarine construction projects?

Professionals in submarine construction often face challenges such as adhering to strict safety and quality standards, working within confined and complex environments, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, welders, and project managers. Additionally, meeting tight deadlines and adapting to evolving technologies are common, as each submarine project may present unique technical requirements. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential to ensure that all components are built to specification and integrated seamlessly.

What degree do you need to build submarines?

Submarine construction typically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering fields such as mechanical, naval, or marine engineering. Relevant skills include knowledge of materials, design, and manufacturing processes, and some positions may require specialized certifications or security clearances depending on the employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Submarine Construction, and why are they important?

To thrive in Submarine Construction, you need expertise in marine engineering, metallurgy, welding, and mechanical systems, often supported by a degree or technical certification in engineering or a related trade. Familiarity with CAD software, non-destructive testing tools, and industry standards like ISO or ASME certifications is typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for ensuring quality and safety in complex construction environments. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the integrity, safety, and functionality of submarines, which operate in highly demanding underwater conditions.

How much money do submarine builders make?

Submarine builders typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of certification. Skilled workers such as welders, electricians, and project managers in submarine construction often have higher salaries, especially with specialized training and security clearances.

How much do submarine workers make?

Submarine construction workers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific roles such as welders, electricians, or pipefitters. Skilled workers with certifications and specialized training tend to earn higher wages, and the job often involves working in shipyards or offshore environments with potential overtime opportunities.

What is submarine construction?

Submarine construction is the process of designing, building, and assembling submarines, which are specialized watercraft capable of operating underwater. This field involves advanced engineering, precision manufacturing, and strict safety standards due to the challenging environments submarines face. Workers in submarine construction may include naval architects, engineers, welders, and technicians who work with materials like steel and advanced composites. The process often takes place in specialized shipyards and can span several years for each vessel. Submarine construction is essential for military defense, scientific research, and underwater exploration.
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What job categories do people searching Submarine Construction jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Submarine Construction jobs are:
Submarine Construction jobs near you
Infographic showing various Submarine Construction job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 6% Temporary, 30% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $43,541 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Submarine Structural Engineer with URO 3 Specialty

Submarine Structural Engineer with URO 3 Specialty

Orbis

Silverdale, WA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Description:
Submarine Structural Engineer with URO MRC 003 Specialty
Analyzes URO MRC 003 data associated with submarine hull structure surveys (e.g., visual inspections, NDT reports) and based on established criteria, determines if material condition is acceptable or requires repairs, documents results, and recommends subsequent actions (e.g., accept as is, conduct repairs) to shipyard engineering. This analysis may require personally conducting shipboard inspections and entering shipboard tanks (e.g., Main Ballast Tanks). If repairs are required, develops repair instructions to address noted deficiencies.
Bremerton, WA
This Position is located at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.
Specific responsibilities include but may not be limited to:
  • Waterfront assessment of hull structure material condition.
  • Conduct visual inspections of hull structure.
  • Coordinate with NDT Inspectors to conduct on-site shipboard inspections.
  • Interpret results of inspections.
  • Interpret and apply technical manuals, specifications, and drawings related to submarine structure.
  • Propose repair solutions.
  • Write and review repair procedures.
  • Interface with cognizant shipyard personnel (e.g., engineers, QA inspectors, production shop mechanics, etc.).

Required Skills and/or Experience:
  • Minimum 5 years' job related experience in submarine hull design procedures and criteria, specifically URO MRC 003; Navy Ship systems engineering and NDT processes.

The position requires knowledge of:
• Submarine Structural Integrity requirements for submarine design and construction.
• Structural mechanics: A strong understanding of structural mechanics principles, including stress analysis, fatigue analysis, buckling analysis, and fracture mechanics.
• Materials science: Knowledge of the properties and behavior of materials used in submarine construction (e.g., high-strength steel).
• Welding and fabrication: Familiarity with welding processes and fabrication techniques used in submarine construction and repair.
• Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): Understanding of structural NDT programs to validate designs and ensure structural integrity such a Visual Test (VT), Ultrasonic Test (UT), Penetrant Test (PT), and Magnetic Test (MT) Procedures.
• Knowledge of Navy Unrestricted Operations Maintenance Requirements Card (URO MRC) Program, specifically URO MRC 003 - Conduct Hull Survey: Familiarity with US Navy URO MRC Program as applied to submarine hull structure analysis.
• Knowledge of Submarine Maintenance Standards 6310-0810-015 (Submarine Preservation General Painting) and 7650-081-091 (Submarine Hull Inspection and Repairs): Comprehension of these documents outlining the details of the inspections for URO MRC 003.
• Marine engineering: Understanding of marine engineering principles and systems.
• Familiarity with NAVSEA processes and understanding of overall Navy ship design process.
Degree Requirements:
  • Preferred: A Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Naval Architecture

Must be a US Citizen with a Secret Clearance
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
ORBIS offers an excellent benefits package and a competitive salary in a professional atmosphere.

Apply