Job Overview

Shipfitters are essential to the construction and maintenance of ships, barges, and offshore platforms. These skilled tradespeople cut, shape, and weld metal parts to assemble the structural framework of marine vessels. They play a critical role in shipbuilding yards and naval operations, working on everything from military destroyers to commercial cargo ships.

If you enjoy fabrication, blueprint reading, and structural welding—and want to work in a high-impact industrial setting—a career as a shipfitter may be a strong fit.

$56,000
Entry Level Salary
$60,000
National Median Pay
$100,000+
Real Go-Getters Make
Source: Lightcast 2025

What Does a Pipefitter Do?

Shipfitter worker wearing a high-visibility vest working on a large cargo ship propeller.

What Does a Pipefitter Do?

Shipfitter worker wearing a high-visibility vest working on a large cargo ship propeller.

Shipfitters are responsible for preparing and assembling large steel components that make up the hull, bulkheads, decking, and superstructure of a vessel. Their work demands precision, strength, and a solid understanding of welding and fitting practices.

Typical shipfitter responsibilities include:

  • Interpreting blueprints, ship drawings, and welding symbols
  • Cutting and fitting metal plates and beams using torches, grinders, and plasma cutters
  • Tack welding and fitting structural components together
  • Aligning and positioning hull structures using hydraulic jacks, wedges, and chain falls
  • Welding and reinforcing joints to meet naval or commercial vessel codes
  • Inspecting assemblies for accuracy, gaps, and structural integrity

Shipfitters often work in tight quarters and outdoor environments and may be required to pass military or shipyard-specific certifications to meet project standards.

Shipfitter worker wearing a high-visibility vest working on a large cargo ship propeller.

Career Requirements

Career Requirements

What Skills or Credentials Do You Need to Become a Shipfitter?

Becoming a shipfitter requires strong welding and metalworking skills, physical endurance, and attention to detail. While some shipfitters learn on the job, most employers prefer candidates with formal training or certification:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • AWS welding certifications (especially FCAW, SMAW, or GMAW)
  • Knowledge of marine welding codes (e.g., ABS, NAVSEA standards)
  • Experience with cutting and fitting steel plates and beams
  • Ability to read blueprints, layouts, and assembly drawings
  • Comfort working in confined spaces and at odd angles
  • Familiarity with rigging tools and shipyard safety procedures

Completing a welding or maritime trades program at a technical school or community college can give candidates a head start in this field.

Salary & Career Outlook

Salary & Career Outlook

How Much Does a Shipfitter Make?

Shipfitters earn competitive wages due to the complexity and physical nature of their work. Compensation often increases for those with welding certifications or government clearance to work on defense projects.

Estimated salary ranges:

  • Entry-level shipfitters: $45,000–$55,000 annually
  • Mid-career shipfitters with certifications: $60,000–$70,000 annually
  • Highly experienced or defense-certified shipfitters: $75,000 + per year

In addition to base pay, many jobs include overtime, per diem, or travel pay—especially for shipyards handling military contracts or emergency repair work. Shipfitting remains in demand along the U.S. coasts, Gulf states, and at major naval bases.

Training & Certifications

Training & Certifications

How Do I Get Started as a Shipfitter?

Many shipfitters begin their careers in welding and gradually specialize in ship construction and repair. The most successful candidates build experience in structural welding and cutting while pursuing industry certifications

Steps to start your shipfitter career:

  • Complete a welding certificate or technical training program.
  • Gain experience with structural and plate welding techniques.
  • Learn to read marine blueprints and apply layout skills.
  • Pursue AWS structural welding certifications.
  • Apply for entry-level positions at commercial or military shipyards.
  • Stay current on safety practices and welding procedures specific to the maritime industry.

AWS offers training, certification pathways, and resources to help you transition into this advanced welding role.

Shipfitter Job Demand

The map below highlights recent job demand for shipfitters across the U.S., based on industry employment data. Coastal states with active shipyards—such as Virginia, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Washington—show consistently high demand for certified shipfitters.

 

Learn More About Shipfitting Careers

Learn More About Shipfitting Careers

Shipfitting is a vital and rewarding welding career path for individuals who want to work with large-scale structures and contribute to maritime operations. With the right training, certifications, and hands-on experience, shipfitters can build a long-lasting career in a field that combines craftsmanship, teamwork, and national importance.

Explore AWS welding certifications and educational programs to take the first step toward your future as a shipfitter.

Recommended Education icon

Minimum Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred Education

Recommended Education

Certificate in welding, metals fabrication, machining, etc.

Advanced Education icon

Advanced Education

Associate degree in welding, metals fabrication, machining, etc.

Recommended Training icon

Recommended Training

Related naval or shipyard work experience

Advanced Training icon

Advanced Training

Apprenticeship program

Recommended Certification icon

Recommended Certification

AWS Certified Welder