
How to Get a Shipyard Job: A Career Guide
If you enjoy hands-on work, have an eye for detail, and want to be part of building and repairing massive vessels, shipyard jobs might be the perfect fit. Whether you’re interested in welding, electrical work, pipefitting, or general labor, shipyards offer a variety of roles that keep the maritime industry moving. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to land a position, what the job description typically includes, and the core responsibilities you can expect.
What Are Shipyard Jobs?
Shipyard jobs involve the construction, repair, and maintenance of ships and other marine vessels. This includes everything from small boats to massive naval destroyers. Shipyards operate as a hub for skilled tradespeople working together to fabricate, assemble, and inspect ship components.
Roles in shipyards vary widely. Common titles include:
- Welder
- Electrician
- Pipefitter
- Machinist
- Marine painter
- General laborer
Whether you’re experienced in a trade or just getting started, shipyards will usually provide opportunities for on-the-job training and apprenticeships.
Job Description and Core Responsibilities
While the specific job description will depend on the role, most shipyard jobs require physical labor, safety awareness, and the ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
Typical responsibilities may include:
- Reading blueprints and schematics
- Operating machinery and tools specific to your trade
- Following safety protocols, especially in confined or elevated spaces
- Welding, cutting, or assembling ship components
- Conducting maintenance or repairs on existing structures
- Inspecting finished work for quality and compliance
Due to the industrial nature of the work, being comfortable with noise, outdoor environments, and varying weather conditions is important.
Skills and Qualifications Needed
Most entry-level shipyard jobs require a high school diploma or GED. Earning technical training or a trade certification boosts your chances of getting hired.
Helpful skills include:
- Mechanical aptitude
- Familiarity with tools and machinery
- Ability to read technical drawings
- Attention to detail and safety
- Physical stamina and manual dexterity
Some shipyards may also require background checks or drug screening as part of their hiring process, especially if contracts involve government or military vessels.
How to Get Hired in a Shipyard
To break into shipyard work, follow these steps:
- Gain experience in a relevant trade such as welding, electrical, or carpentry.
- Enroll in a trade school or apprenticeship program that includes marine or industrial training.
- Build a resume that highlights your hands-on experience and safety certifications.
- Apply through staffing agencies like NCW that specialize in construction and skilled trades roles.
- Be flexible—many shipyard jobs offer contract work that can lead to full-time employment.
Start Your Shipyard Career with NCW
Shipyard jobs offer long-term career opportunities, strong pay, and the satisfaction of seeing your work take shape on the water. Whether you’re just starting your career or bringing years of trade experience, NCW can help you find the right fit.
Contact NCW today to connect with our recruiters and explore current shipyard job openings. Let’s get you on deck and on the job.