Position
Salary

How much does a Shipfitter make?

The average salary for a Shipfitter is $61,195 per year in the US.

Shipfitters play a vital role in the maritime industry. They build, repair, and maintain the interior structures of ships. Their work ensures the safety and functionality of the vessel. Shipfitters typically earn a good salary for their specialized skills. The average yearly salary for shipfitters stands at $61,195. This figure represents a balance between entry-level and experienced workers.

Shipfitters can expect to see changes in their earnings as they gain more experience. Here's a look at the salary distribution:

  • 20% earn less than $46,631
  • 40% earn between $46,631 and $56,293
  • 60% earn between $56,293 and $65,955
  • 80% earn between $65,955 and $75,616
  • 90% earn less than $80,447
  • The top 10% earn over $85,278
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What are the highest paying cities for a Shipfitter?

Shipfitters can find high-paying job opportunities in cities like Seattle and San Diego. Seattle offers an average salary of $66,466, while San Diego provides a strong salary at $65,106. These cities provide excellent earning potential for skilled shipfitters. Other notable cities include Philadelphia, Charleston, and Houston, each offering competitive salaries above $60,000. Cities like Mobile, New Orleans, Jacksonville, Corpus Christi, and Tampa also present good opportunities for shipfitters seeking solid income.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Shipfitter jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $66,466 and Tampa, FL with the lowest at $51,638.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $66,466
    In Seattle, professionals can find steady work in shipbuilding and repair. Companies like BAE Systems and Vigor Industrial offer great opportunities. The Pacific Northwest's strong maritime industry provides a vibrant career path.
    Find Shipfitter jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $65,106
    San Diego boasts a robust maritime sector with a strong demand for skilled workers. With major employers like General Dynamics NASSCO and the U.S. Navy, job seekers can look forward to a thriving job market. The city's strategic location makes it a hub for marine activities.
    Find Shipfitter jobs in San Diego, CA


  3. Philadelphia, PA
    Average Salary: $64,773
    Philadelphia's maritime industry is rich with history and opportunity. The presence of companies such as BAE Systems and Philly Shipyard offers diverse roles. Workers benefit from a blend of tradition and modern technology.
    Find Shipfitter jobs in Philadelphia, PA


  4. Charleston, SC
    Average Salary: $62,768
    Charleston offers a unique maritime environment with a mix of historic and modern shipbuilding. Notable employers include BAE Systems and Northrup Grumman. The city's port activity provides a dynamic and engaging work setting.
    Find Shipfitter jobs in Charleston, SC


  5. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $60,891
    Houston's energy industry creates a steady demand for skilled maritime professionals. Companies like Gulf Shipbuilding and Offshore Services provide ample opportunities. The city's diverse economy offers a stable career path.
    Find Shipfitter jobs in Houston, TX


  6. Mobile, AL
    Average Salary: $60,429
    Mobile is a key player in the shipbuilding industry, with companies such as Austal Ships of America leading the way. The city's maritime roots offer rich career prospects. Workers enjoy a supportive and experienced community.
    Find Shipfitter jobs in Mobile, AL


  7. New Orleans, LA
    Average Salary: $57,269
    New Orleans has a vibrant maritime scene with a mix of river and ocean work. Employers like Bollinger Shipyards and VT Halter Marine provide diverse roles. The city's unique culture adds to the job experience.
    Find Shipfitter jobs in New Orleans, LA


  8. Jacksonville, FL
    Average Salary: $56,623
    Jacksonville offers a strong maritime industry with opportunities at companies like BAE Systems and Blount Klein. The city's port facilities create a stable job market for those in the field.
    Find Shipfitter jobs in Jacksonville, FL


  9. Corpus Christi, TX
    Average Salary: $53,000
    Corpus Christi is a vital maritime hub, with major companies like McDermott International and Global Marine Systems. The city's port activity provides a dynamic and rewarding work environment.
    Find Shipfitter jobs in Corpus Christi, TX


  10. Tampa, FL
    Average Salary: $51,638
    Tampa's maritime industry benefits from its strategic location and port facilities. Companies like BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin offer diverse job opportunities. The sunny climate adds to the appeal of working in this coastal city.
    Find Shipfitter jobs in Tampa, FL

What are the best companies a Shipfitter can work for?

General Dynamics Information Technology offers the highest average salary for shipfitter jobs, with an average annual salary of $91,340. BAE Systems USA follows closely, paying shipfitters an average of $73,667 per year. These companies provide not only competitive wages but also opportunities for career growth and professional development.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Shipfitter jobs, highlighting General Dynamics Information Technology with the highest at $91,340 and International Marine and Industrial Applicators, LLC with the lowest at $61,216.
  1. General Dynamics Information Technology
    Average Salary: $91,340
    General Dynamics Information Technology offers Shipfitter jobs with competitive pay. They focus on building and maintaining ships. This company works across the United States, including major shipyards.


  2. BAE Systems USA
    Average Salary: $73,667
    BAE Systems USA hires Shipfitters to work on various ship projects. They operate in multiple locations nationwide, providing opportunities for growth and experience.


  3. Aerotek
    Average Salary: $71,947
    Aerotek places Shipfitters in jobs that require strong craftsmanship. They have a wide range of job locations, allowing flexibility for candidates.


  4. Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC
    Average Salary: $71,682
    Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC provides Shipfitter positions with a focus on quality and precision. They work in key maritime areas, offering valuable experience.


  5. CTR Group
    Average Salary: $69,902
    CTR Group offers Shipfitter jobs with a balance of technical skill and on-the-job training. They are located in critical shipyards across the country.


  6. RSC Solutions
    Average Salary: $65,701
    RSC Solutions hires Shipfitters who are dedicated to ship maintenance and repair. They operate in various shipyards, providing a stable work environment.


  7. General Dynamics NASSCO
    Average Salary: $63,517
    General Dynamics NASSCO offers Shipfitter positions focused on ship construction. They are present in major shipyards, providing a solid career foundation.


  8. Bollinger Shipyards
    Average Salary: $62,039
    Bollinger Shipyards provides Shipfitter jobs that emphasize teamwork and skill. They operate in key maritime locations, offering diverse opportunities.


  9. Ameri-Force
    Average Salary: $61,965
    Ameri-Force hires Shipfitters for various maritime projects. They operate in select shipyards, providing a solid career pathway.


  10. International Marine and Industrial Applicators, LLC
    Average Salary: $61,216
    International Marine and Industrial Applicators, LLC offers Shipfitter jobs that focus on marine applications. They operate in key shipyards, offering steady employment.

How to earn more as a Shipfitter?

Elevating your earnings as a shipfitter involves more than just your trade skills. Several factors can significantly impact your salary. Prioritizing continuous learning and skill enhancement can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Staying updated with the latest industry trends and technologies ensures competitiveness in the job market.

Networking within the industry also plays a crucial role. Building relationships with peers and professionals can lead to job referrals and insider information about lucrative positions. Don’t underestimate the power of a strong professional network. It can provide access to better-paying jobs and career advancement opportunities.

Location can greatly influence earnings. Areas with a high demand for shipfitters often offer higher wages to attract talent. Considering relocation for better job prospects can be a wise decision. Researching and moving to regions with a thriving maritime industry can lead to more job opportunities and higher salaries.

Here are some factors that can help a shipfitter earn more:

  1. Continuous Learning: Always update skills and knowledge.
  2. Networking: Build and maintain professional relationships.
  3. Location: Choose areas with high demand for shipfitters.
  4. Certifications: Obtain relevant industry certifications.
  5. Experience: Gain more experience to qualify for higher positions.

Currently 44 Shipfitter job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Shipfitter in the US?

Learn what a Shipfitter does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Shipfitter today.
Position
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Shipfitter
44 Job Openings