How much does a Shipfitter make?
Shipfitters build and repair the structures inside ships. They work on everything from pipes and tanks to the ship’s hull. This job can be rewarding, both in terms of satisfaction and pay. On average, shipfitters make about $64,122 a year.
Shipfitter salaries can vary greatly. The lowest 10% earn about $38,000 a year. The highest 10% earn over $99,000. Most shipfitters fall somewhere in the middle. Experience and location play big roles in determining salary. Those with more experience and those in larger cities tend to earn more. Shipfitters often find themselves in areas with a lot of ship-building and repair activity. These locations also tend to offer higher wages.
What are the highest paying cities for a Shipfitter?
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $69,933
In Charleston, SC, professionals in this field enjoy a mix of maritime history and modern industry. Companies like Rolls-Royce Marine cater to skilled shipfitters. Charleston’s port activity provides many opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $67,692
Seattle, WA is a hub for shipbuilding and repair. Shipfitters here work for major companies like BAE Systems. The city's maritime culture offers a vibrant work environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $67,513
San Diego, CA offers a dynamic setting for shipfitters. The city’s naval presence means steady work for companies like General Dynamics NASSCO. Shipfitters here thrive in a bustling maritime industry.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $67,073
In Philadelphia, PA, shipfitters find rich opportunities. Companies such as BAE Systems Craft Solutions seek skilled professionals. The city's long maritime history provides a supportive work environment.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $67,000
Houston, TX has a growing demand for skilled shipfitters. Major employers include McDermott International. The city’s strategic location on the Gulf of Mexico ensures plenty of projects.
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Mobile, AL
Average Salary: $62,818
Mobile, AL offers a stable job market for shipfitters. Companies like Austal USA offer excellent career prospects. The city’s history in shipbuilding provides a solid industry base.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $59,341
In Jacksonville, FL, shipfitters enjoy a thriving maritime industry. Companies like BAE Systems Ship Repair provide numerous opportunities. The city’s port is a key player in the region.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $59,114
New Orleans, LA is a key area for shipfitters. Companies like Halter Marine, Inc. offer robust career paths. The city's unique culture complements the maritime lifestyle.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $54,000
Corpus Christi, TX has a vibrant job market for shipfitters. Employers like BAE Systems Ship Repair are prominent. The city's strategic port location drives demand.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $52,019
Tampa, FL provides a dynamic environment for shipfitters. Companies like BAE Systems Ship Repair offer many opportunities. The city’s strategic location on the Gulf of Mexico ensures steady work.
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What are the best companies a Shipfitter can work for?
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General Dynamics Information Technology
Average Salary: $84,466
At General Dynamics Information Technology, Shipfitters work on various projects. The company operates nationwide, including locations like Virginia, Maryland, and Texas.
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Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC
Average Salary: $79,195
Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC offers Shipfitter jobs with a focus on technical skills. This company operates in areas such as California, Florida, and New York.
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Chipton-Ross Staffing
Average Salary: $76,250
Chipton-Ross Staffing provides Shipfitter positions with competitive pay. The company has locations in states like Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama.
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CTR Group
Average Salary: $70,893
CTR Group offers Shipfitter jobs with a focus on maritime construction. The company operates in several locations including Washington, Oregon, and Hawaii.
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General Dynamics Electric Boat
Average Salary: $67,042
General Dynamics Electric Boat provides Shipfitter positions with opportunities in submarine manufacturing. The company has key locations in Connecticut, Virginia, and Florida.
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General Dynamics NASSCO
Average Salary: $66,901
General Dynamics NASSCO offers Shipfitter jobs with a focus on ship repair and construction. The company operates in locations such as California, Texas, and Mississippi.
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A.E USA
Average Salary: $65,375
A.E USA provides Shipfitter positions with a focus on industrial and commercial projects. The company operates in various states including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Illinois.
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Ameri-Force
Average Salary: $64,094
Ameri-Force offers Shipfitter jobs with a focus on military and government projects. The company operates in states such as California, Virginia, and North Carolina.
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International Marine and Industrial Applicators, LLC
Average Salary: $62,222
International Marine and Industrial Applicators, LLC offers Shipfitter positions with a focus on marine coatings and painting. The company operates in locations such as Louisiana, Texas, and Florida.
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Hutco Inc.
Average Salary: $59,117
Hutco Inc. provides Shipfitter jobs with a focus on shipbuilding and repair. The company operates in states such as Washington, California, and Oregon.
How to earn more as a Shipfitter?
A shipfitter can increase earnings through several key factors. Experience is vital, as skilled shipfitters are more likely to secure higher-paying jobs. Specialization in certain types of ship construction or repair can also boost earnings. Certification from recognized organizations adds credibility and can lead to better job opportunities. Networking within the industry can uncover higher-paying positions and promote career advancement. Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends can make a shipfitter more valuable to employers.
Networking plays a crucial role in earning more. Building relationships with industry professionals can lead to job leads and promotions. Attending industry events and joining professional organizations can enhance these connections. Seeking mentorship from experienced shipfitters can provide valuable insights and career guidance. Staying proactive about career development and seizing new opportunities can also increase earning potential.
Shipfitters can explore these avenues to enhance their earnings:
- Gain experience and skills in the trade.
- Obtain relevant certifications.
- Network with professionals in the industry.
- Seek continuous education and training.
- Stay updated with industry trends and technologies.
