The Ultimate Guide to Shipyard Jobs in 2025
5/09/2025
The Shipyard Boom Recruiters Can’t Ignore
The U.S. Navy plans to build more than 75 ships over the next decade. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the Navy's long-term shipbuilding goals are backed by multi-billion dollar defense allocations aimed at modernizing and expanding the fleet. But ask most tradesmen if they know how to get into a shipyard, and you’ll get crickets. That’s your opportunity—and your headache. The demand is massive. The talent is out there. But the process is anything but simple, especially for a first-time shipyard employee navigating security checks and job classifications.
This is your green light.
Shipyards from Newport News to Bremerton are offering year-round, high-paying jobs with OT and benefits. For example, Huntington Ingalls Industries in Newport News and Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton post dozens of open roles weekly, ranging from shipfitters and riggers to marine electricians and welders. And unlike turnaround work, the schedule is steady. But here’s the rub: most tradesmen don’t know how to get in. In a recent RoadDogJobs survey, 68% of welders said they had never applied to a shipyard job—mostly because they didn’t know where to start or what certs were required. Security clearances, federal applications, union vs. non-union dynamics—as outlined by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, it's not always clear. And many recruiters have never sourced for these kinds of roles before.
This guide was built for skilled tradesmen. The ones tired of chasing short-term gigs, waiting for callbacks, or wondering where the next paycheck is coming from. This post will help you understand how shipyard jobs work, where the best opportunities are, and what you need to get hired. It’s your roadmap to landing reliable, high-paying work in an industry that’s booming—and ready for you.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide:
By the end of this post, you’ll know:
- Where the biggest shipyard hiring surges are happening—and which trades are most in demand
- What certifications, experience, and clearances your candidates need to get hired
- How much tradesmen can earn—including base rates, per diem, and OT
- The inside scoop on shipyard work culture, job length, and advancement paths
- How to source and vet talent quickly—even for entry-level roles with no yard experience
Why Shipyard Hiring Is Exploding in 2025 (and What That Means for Recruiters)
Not sure where to start recruiting for shipyard roles? Let’s look at what’s fueling this hiring boom—and why now’s the time to act.
Here’s the big picture: The U.S. is pouring billions into naval defense. With $32 billion allocated in FY2025 and a projected need for 100,000+ tradesmen over the next decade, the Navy is fueling a surge in jobs in the shipbuilding industry that spans nearly every major coastal state., the shipbuilding industry is seeing its most aggressive growth cycle since the Cold War. According to the Congressional Research Service, the Navy’s shipbuilding budget for FY2025 exceeds $32 billion, with plans to increase the size of the fleet to over 350 manned ships.
The Navy’s official 30-Year Shipbuilding Plan includes:
Here’s the big picture: The U.S. is pouring billions into naval defense. The shipbuilding industry is seeing its most aggressive growth cycle in 40 years. Shipbuilding vacancies are at all-time highs and expected to grow.
Defense dollars are flowing—$32+ billion in FY2025 alone.
Shipyards aren’t just busy, they’re overwhelmed.
The Navy’s 30-year shipbuilding plan includes:
- 12 new submarines
- 6 aircraft carriers
- 30+ support ships
- Major overhauls of legacy vessels
That workload is being funneled primarily through places like Huntington Ingalls Industries, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, and Norfolk Naval Shipyard. Every one of them is short on manpower. And not just skilled tradesmen—they need QC, logistics, planners, and foremen.
What it means for recruiters:
- Consistent demand. No seasonal downtime.
- Long-term assignments with good pay and benefits.
- A candidate pool that’s often unaware of how to enter the shipyard world.
- The ability to build a niche and own a category in your region.
Pro tip: Frame these roles as solutions to project delays and no-show hires. These aren’t just career opportunities for tradesmen—they’re the most recruiter-ready roles on the market. Many skilled tradesmen are burnt out on chasing short outages. Shipyards offer 6–12+ month projects with potential full-time conversion., not just gigs. Many skilled tradesmen are burnt out on chasing short outages. Shipyards offer 6–12+ month projects with potential full-time conversion. If you’re recruiting welders, electricians, riggers, or pipefitters—this is the best long-term sell you can make.
Where the Jobs Are: A Breakdown of the Top U.S. Shipyards
These are the shipyards driving demand in 2025—and the roles they can’t fill fast enough.
Let’s talk geography. Because where the jobs are matters as much as what they pay—and what they require.
If you’re looking to build a recruiting pipeline or break into a new region, here are the major U.S. shipyards you should have on your radar, along with the types of roles, volume of hiring, and strategic relevance for your candidate base.
Newport News, VA – Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII)
Newport News has over 25,000 employees and is still hiring.
If you’re not sourcing here, you’re behind.
Home to over 25,000 employees, Huntington Ingalls Industries in Newport News is the only U.S. shipyard that builds nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and one of only two that constructs nuclear-powered submarines. They are aggressively hiring for shipyard jobs in Newport News, VA—including pipefitters, electricians, welders, and planners. Known for projects like the Ford-class carriers and Columbia-class subs, it’s a top destination for tradesmen looking for long-term shipyard careers and high-volume shipbuilder job offers. If you’re sourcing for NN shipyard jobs, this is ground zero.
Bremerton, WA – Puget Sound Naval Shipyard
Bremerton requires security clearance—but offers unmatched stability.
Think long game when recruiting for Puget Sound.
The Puget Sound Naval Shipyard is a critical maintenance hub for the Pacific Fleet. With over 14,000 civilian workers, this naval shipyard has consistent demand for structural welders, inside machinists, and electricians. Most shipyard jobs in Bremerton, WA, require security clearance, but federal benefits, union wages, and career advancement opportunities make it one of the best bets for stable naval shipyard jobs.
Philadelphia, PA – Navy Yard + Philly Shipyard
Located at the heart of the Northeast corridor, Philly Shipyard is currently constructing training vessels for the U.S. maritime academies. For tradesmen looking for shipyard jobs in Philadelphia, PA, opportunities include hull techs, welders, and marine electricians. The Navy Yard also houses private contractors supporting Navy modernization, with growing demand for skilled trades. For recruiters sourcing navy yard jobs and careers in Philadelphia, this region offers both government and commercial volume—ideal for targeting long-term navy yard employment opportunities.
Norfolk, VA – Norfolk Naval Shipyard & Private Contractors
The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is one of the oldest and largest shipyards in the U.S. With ongoing surface vessel maintenance and sub refueling work, the demand for skilled trades is constant. Contractors like BAE Systems and Colonna’s Shipyard also operate in the area. If you're sourcing for shipyard jobs in Norfolk, VA or looking to fill Virginia shipyard employment roles, Norfolk offers both quantity and variety across public and private sectors.
Other Notable Locations:
Why this matters:
For example, a certified pipefitter in Norfolk may earn $34/hr with union benefits, while a similar role in Bremerton can offer $38/hr—but requires a federal security clearance and comes with a higher cost of living. Each location also varies in certification requirements, job types, and hiring structure. Use geo-targeted campaigns to surface leads for Virginia Beach shipyard jobs, entry level shipyard jobs, or even shipyard office jobs for admin and support roles. And don’t forget to adjust your outreach tone based on whether it’s a federal naval yard or a commercial shipbuilder—each has its own culture and cadence. Whether you’re filling shipyard positions for welders, fitters, or support roles, aligning to that culture is key.
Recruiters who master the shipyard landscape and sharpen their messaging will outperform the competition. This is your advantage.
Pay, Per Diem, and Perks: What Tradesmen Can Expect
Here’s what skilled tradespeople really want to know—and what can close the deal.
Let’s talk numbers. This is what every tradesman wants to know—and what smart recruiters should lead with.
Typical base rates:
- Welders: $28–$42/hr depending on certs and yard
- Electricians: $26–$38/hr
- Pipefitters: $25–$40/hr
- Riggers & scaffold builders: $22–$32/hr
Per diem:
- Often $100–$150/day for non-local hires
- Some shipyards offer weekly lodging stipends or direct housing support
OT & Shift Premiums:
- OT kicks in after 8 or 40 depending on the contract
- Second shift: +$2–$4/hr
- Weekends and holidays: 1.5x or 2x base rate
Other perks:
- Union benefits (pension, healthcare, training reimbursements)
- Clearance bonuses (especially in Bremerton, Norfolk, and Newport News)
- Consistent work schedule—no hopping job-to-job every 3 weeks
Real world example: We placed a pipe welder in Newport News who cleared $2,400/week with OT and per diem. That same welder had been scraping together $1,200/week doing local fab work before. He’s now on his third 6-month assignment and has turned down two outage gigs because the shipyard work is so steady.
Welders can earn $2,400/week with OT and per diem in top yards.
That’s twice what many make in local shops.
What It Takes to Get Hired: Certifications, Clearances, and Applications
Hiring for shipyards isn’t simple. But if you understand the process, you can own it.
Shipyard hiring isn’t like grabbing a refinery gig. It’s more paperwork. More hoops. But there's a payoff.
Certifications that matter:
- AWS D1.1 or D1.5 for structural and pipe welders
- NAVSEA certs (huge advantage for government shipyards)
- OSHA 10/30 – mandatory for many federal projects
- NCCER credentials for pipefitting, rigging, electrical
- TWIC cards are increasingly being required
Clearances:
No clearance? No problem.
Many yards will sponsor, but you must screen candidates early.
- Required for naval yard employment (Bremerton, Norfolk, Newport News)
- Level varies: Public Trust to Secret
- Most yards will sponsor the clearance but only if candidate has a clean record—vet early
Application process:
- Federal yards: go through USAJobs (slow, bureaucratic, requires guidance)
- Private yards: direct apply via company portals or through preferred contractors
- Events: Newport News shipbuilding job fair, shipyard hiring event – good ways to screen lots of candidates quickly
Recruiter tip: Have a pre-hire checklist. Help candidates assemble a complete shipyard job application package:
- Resume with verified work history
- Copies of certs
- PPE documentation
- Government-issued ID
- References
- Drug screen scheduling info
Bonus: Use ready-made templates for federal applications. Create a reusable PDF or Airtable checklist that includes direct links to USAJobs postings, resume formatting examples, and a security clearance self-check tool. Most tradesmen won’t do this on their own.
No Experience? No Problem. Here’s How to Break In
Think only veterans can land shipyard gigs? Think again. Here’s how to bring in fresh talent.
One of the biggest myths in the industry is that you need years of shipyard experience to get hired. Not true. Many shipyards are scrambling to attract new workers who show up, prove themselves, and stay committed.
Many yards offer entry level shipyard jobs, pre-apprenticeship tracks, and earn-while-you-learn opportunities, including Newport News shipyard jobs with no experience required.
Programs to know:
Other strategies:
Shipyards need green workers.
Pre-apprenticeship programs and GI Bill pipelines are underutilized goldmines.
For recruiters: Target:
- High school CTE and welding programs
- Military transition centers
- Reentry programs for justice-impacted individuals
- Online communities like Trade Hounds or Facebook welding groups
What Shipyard Life is Really Like
Shipyard life isn’t for everyone—but for the right tradesman, it’s the dream job.
Shipyard work isn’t easy. It’s gritty. It’s cold in winter and blazing in summer. But it’s also steady. Secure. And for many tradesmen, it becomes home.
Schedules:
- Common shifts: 4x10s, 5x8s, 7x12s during major pushes
- OT is often mandatory during tight deadlines or refit seasons
Safety culture:
- Pre-task planning and safety briefings every day
- High PPE enforcement (gloves, eye protection, FR gear)
- Confined space and working at height are common
- Safety culture is strong—federal yards get audited often
Living and working:
- Bremerton: High cost of living but strong union pay
- Norfolk/Newport News: Affordable housing, lots of military support, family-friendly
- Philly: Union strength, higher taxes, good access to major metro amenities
Growth path:
- Start in the tools → Foreman → Supervisor → Planner/QC → Superintendent
- Opportunities to cross into safety, QA/QC, or logistics
- Some tradesmen eventually become estimators or project managers
Real talk: One of our welders in Norfolk told us, “I stopped chasing gigs once I got into the shipyard. There’s always work. It ain’t easy, but it’s steady.” That mindset is what many tradesmen want, they just don’t know where to find it. Until now.
“There’s always work. It ain’t easy, but it’s steady.” That’s the message tradesmen need to hear.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Shipyard Job
The process might feel intimidating—but here's exactly how to get started.
- Identify the shipyard you want to work for
Use this guide or visit company websites like Huntington Ingalls or Philly Shipyard to explore openings. You can also find shipyard jobs here on RoadDogJobs. - Choose between a federal or private path
- Gather and prep your documents
- Resume (with verified work history and skills)
- Certifications (AWS, OSHA, NCCER, etc.)
- TWIC card (if required)
- Government-issued ID
- Complete your shipyard job application
Follow each step carefully—especially on USAJobs. It’s more detailed than most construction job sites.
- Be ready for onboarding
Once selected, you may go through background checks, drug screening, clearance paperwork, and basic orientation.
Tools & Resources to Help You Get Hired
These tools can give you an edge in the hiring process.
Resume Builders
Safety & Certification Training
Job Boards & Hiring Events
Helpful Programs
Shipyard Job FAQ: What First-Time Workers Want to Know
Answers to the most common questions we hear from new shipyard applicants.
Q: When is the next Norfolk Naval Shipyard job fair?
A: Job fair dates change frequently. Visit the Norfolk Naval Shipyard careers page or check RoadDogJobs Shipyard Listings for the latest event announcements.
Q: How do I apply for shipyard jobs?
A: Start with Section 7 of this guide. Decide whether you're applying to a federal or private shipyard, prep your documents, and follow instructions for submitting an application via USAJobs or directly through a contractor’s website.
Q: How do I get a job at the shipyard if I have no experience?
A: Many yards offer entry-level roles and pre-apprenticeship programs. Check out options like the Newport News Apprentice School or WIOA-funded training programs.
Q: Is Newport News Shipyard a government job?
A: Huntington Ingalls operates Newport News as a private contractor, but much of the work is for the U.S. Navy. Some roles require federal security clearances and follow federal guidelines.
Q: What is a shipyard job?
A: Shipyard jobs include welding, pipefitting, electrical, mechanical, rigging, machining, painting, QA/QC, and support roles like safety or logistics. They’re critical to maintaining and building naval and commercial vessels.
Q: Do I have to relocate?
A: Not always. Many yards offer per diem or housing. But if you're willing to move, it opens up more options.
Q: Can I bring my tools?
A: Some yards provide tools. Others require you to bring your own basics. Always ask in advance.
Q: What’s the drug screen like?
A: Expect a lab-based drug test. Some yards also test for alcohol or conduct hair follicle screens.
Q: How do I get a TWIC card?
A: Apply through the Transportation Security Administration. You’ll need valid ID and undergo a background check.
Q: What happens if I don’t pass the clearance?
A: If you’re applying for a federal yard and can’t pass, look at private shipyards instead. Not all roles require clearance.
The Challenges of Working in a Shipyard
Shipyard work comes with real benefits—but it’s not for everyone. Here’s what to expect.
Physically demanding:
You’ll be on your feet for long hours, working in tight or awkward spaces. Climbing, crawling, lifting, and wearing heavy PPE are all part of the job.
Weather exposure:
Many shipyard tasks are outdoors. That means summer heat, winter cold, rain, and wind. Some yards provide weather gear—but not all.
Strict safety rules:
Shipyards have serious safety protocols. Expect daily briefings, mandatory PPE, confined space procedures, and strict drug testing.
Security and clearance:
If you work at a federal shipyard, you may need to pass a background check or security clearance. The process can be slow, and not everyone qualifies.
Repetitive or noisy work:
Shipbuilding involves grinding, welding, fitting, and fabrication. It's often loud and repetitive—but also steady.
Union environment:
Most shipyards are unionized. That means rules, pay scales, and work conditions are set by the collective agreement. Good for consistency—not for flexibility.
Why it’s worth it:
Despite the challenges, many tradesmen stay in the yards for years. The work is steady, the pay is solid, and the path to growth is clear. If you want stability and respect, it’s worth the grind.
Conclusion: Why Skilled Tradesmen Should Consider Shipyard Jobs in 2025
This hiring window won’t last—and the tradesmen who take action now will secure the best jobs.
Let’s get real: it’s getting harder to find steady, high-paying skilled trades work. Local gigs dry up fast. Job boards are overcrowded. And project-to-project life gets old. Shipyards offer a better path.
Shipyards offer a different path. One that’s:
- Stable: Multi-year government contracts = predictable demand
- High-paying: OT, per diem, and union benefits make these jobs attractive
- Underserved: Too few recruiters are actively building pipelines for shipyard positions
- Respected: Government-backed work gives tradesmen pride
This is your edge. Not just to find your next job—but to build a real career.
This is the most recruiter-friendly market in industrial construction right now.
Don’t miss the moment—own the shipyard niche.
Start by identifying nearby shipyards. Look up which trades they’re hiring. Check application requirements. Reach out, apply, and follow through. Shipyard jobs aren’t just another gig—they’re a future.
Be the tradesman who lands the steady, high-paying job—before the roles fill up. You’ll get access to hiring events, job search tips, and tools built for the industrial construction world.
Let’s fill these ships—and claim the work that’s steady, respected, and ready for you.