How much does a Shipfitter make?
Shipfitters play a crucial role in the maritime industry. They build and repair ships, ensuring they are safe and seaworthy. The average yearly salary for a shipfitter is around $58,235. This salary can vary based on experience and location. Shipfitters often start with a lower salary and can earn more as they gain experience.
The salary range for shipfitters can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $41,000 per year. The highest 10% earn over $90,000 annually. Most shipfitters fall somewhere in the middle, earning between $49,909 and $76,636 per year. This range shows that with dedication and skill, shipfitters can achieve a good income. Shipfitters often have opportunities for overtime and bonuses, which can increase their earnings.
What are the highest paying cities for a Shipfitter?

-
Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $66,935
In Charleston, skilled tradespeople find ample opportunities in shipbuilding and repair. The port's activity offers steady work with prominent companies like BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce Marine.
Find Shipfitter jobs in Charleston, SC
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $66,228
Seattle boasts a thriving maritime industry, with many job openings in shipbuilding. Companies like Vigor Industrial and Seattle Shipyard provide excellent career prospects.
Find Shipfitter jobs in Seattle, WA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $64,272
San Diego's strategic location makes it a hub for naval operations. Job seekers can find work with major employers like General Dynamics NASSCO and BAE Systems.
Find Shipfitter jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $62,811
Philadelphia offers a rich history in shipbuilding, with opportunities at companies like Philly Shipyard and BAE Systems. The city's maritime industry is robust and offers diverse career paths.
Find Shipfitter jobs in Philadelphia, PA
-
New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $59,250
New Orleans is a key player in the maritime sector, with many job openings in shipbuilding and repair. Companies like Halter Marine and Bollinger Shipyards provide steady employment.
Find Shipfitter jobs in New Orleans, LA
-
Mobile, AL
Average Salary: $57,417
Mobile is known for its strong maritime industry, with many job opportunities in shipbuilding. Companies like Austal USA and BAE Systems offer promising career paths.
Find Shipfitter jobs in Mobile, AL
-
Houston, TX
Average Salary: $53,070
Houston's maritime industry is booming, with many job openings in shipbuilding and repair. Companies like Gulf Shipbuilding and BAE Systems provide excellent career opportunities.
Find Shipfitter jobs in Houston, TX
-
Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $52,980
Jacksonville offers a vibrant maritime industry, with many job opportunities in shipbuilding and repair. Companies like BAE Systems and Blount Marine provide steady employment.
Find Shipfitter jobs in Jacksonville, FL
-
Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $52,357
Tampa's maritime industry is thriving, with many job openings in shipbuilding and repair. Companies like BAE Systems and Florida Shipyards offer promising career paths.
Find Shipfitter jobs in Tampa, FL
-
Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $51,636
Corpus Christi is a key location for maritime jobs, with many opportunities in shipbuilding and repair. Companies like BAE Systems and Gulf Shipbuilding provide steady employment.
Find Shipfitter jobs in Corpus Christi, TX
What are the best companies a Shipfitter can work for?

-
BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $73,115
BAE Systems USA offers Shipfitter jobs with a strong focus on innovation and technology. They operate in various locations, including Portsmouth, Virginia, and Seattle, Washington. Employees work on advanced shipbuilding projects.
-
CTR Group
Average Salary: $69,261
CTR Group provides Shipfitter positions with a commitment to safety and quality. They have locations in Norfolk, Virginia, and Mobile, Alabama. Job roles involve working on both commercial and military vessels.
-
Aerotek
Average Salary: $68,888
Aerotek offers Shipfitter jobs with a focus on flexibility and career advancement. They operate in several locations, including New Orleans, Louisiana, and San Diego, California. Employees work on a variety of shipbuilding projects.
-
Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC
Average Salary: $68,343
Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC provides Shipfitter jobs with a strong emphasis on teamwork and skill development. They have locations in Norfolk, Virginia, and Bremerton, Washington. Job roles involve working on both commercial and military ships.
-
JERRY PITTMAN AND ASSOCIATES INC
Average Salary: $67,798
JERRY PITTMAN AND ASSOCIATES INC offers Shipfitter jobs with a focus on quality and precision. They operate in locations such as Norfolk, Virginia, and Mobile, Alabama. Employees work on a variety of shipbuilding projects.
-
Bollinger Shipyards
Average Salary: $66,778
Bollinger Shipyards provides Shipfitter jobs with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and innovation. They have locations in Lockport, Louisiana, and Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. Job roles involve working on commercial and military vessels.
-
Ameri-Force
Average Salary: $60,797
Ameri-Force offers Shipfitter jobs with a focus on safety and quality. They operate in locations such as Norfolk, Virginia, and Mobile, Alabama. Employees work on a variety of shipbuilding projects.
-
International Marine and Industrial Applicators, LLC
Average Salary: $59,885
International Marine and Industrial Applicators, LLC provides Shipfitter jobs with a focus on safety and quality. They have locations in Norfolk, Virginia, and Mobile, Alabama. Job roles involve working on a variety of shipbuilding projects.
-
Construction Services, LLC
Average Salary: $57,324
Construction Services, LLC offers Shipfitter jobs with a focus on safety and quality. They operate in locations such as Norfolk, Virginia, and Mobile, Alabama. Employees work on a variety of shipbuilding projects.
-
General Dynamics Bath Iron Works
Average Salary: $57,172
General Dynamics Bath Iron Works provides Shipfitter jobs with a strong emphasis on innovation and technology. They operate in Bath, Maine, and other locations. Job roles involve working on advanced shipbuilding projects.
How to earn more as a Shipfitter?
A shipfitter can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining experience and expertise in specialized areas can lead to higher pay. Shipfitters who master welding, pipefitting, or electrical work often find more lucrative job opportunities. Continuing education and training in these skills can make a significant difference.
Certifications and licenses also play a crucial role in earning more. Shipfitters who hold certifications from recognized organizations can command higher wages. These certifications demonstrate a commitment to quality and safety, which employers value. Additionally, gaining experience in different industries, such as offshore drilling or shipbuilding, can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Networking with other professionals and staying informed about industry trends can lead to better job offers. Finally, a strong work ethic and reliability can set a shipfitter apart, leading to promotions and higher salaries.
Here are five factors that can help a shipfitter earn more:
- Specialized skills
- Certifications and licenses
- Industry experience
- Networking
- Strong work ethic