How much does a Shipfitter make?
Shipfitters play an important role in many industries. They create and assemble metal structures for ships. This job requires skill and hard work. Shipfitters often earn good salaries. On average, a shipfitter makes around $62,431 per year. However, salaries can vary based on experience and location.
Here are some of the average salaries shipfitters can expect:
- Top 10% earn more than $95,000
- Top 25% earn more than $80,548
- Top 50% earn more than $61,279
- Bottom 50% earn less than $61,279
- Bottom 25% earn less than $51,645
- Bottom 10% earn less than $42,010
What are the highest paying cities for a Shipfitter?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $66,898
Seattle offers a range of opportunities for those in the shipbuilding and ship repair industry. Workers can find jobs with well-known companies like BAE Systems and Vigor. The city’s maritime culture and strong economy create a vibrant job market.
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $66,697
Charleston provides a historic backdrop for maritime jobs. Companies like Northrop Grumman Ship Systems operate here. The blend of rich history and modern industry makes it an attractive place for professionals.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $65,902
In San Diego, the defense sector drives many shipbuilding jobs. Major employers include General Dynamics NASSCO. The area’s strategic location and naval presence offer a dynamic work environment.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $64,663
Philadelphia boasts a long maritime tradition with significant shipbuilding companies. Workers can find roles at companies like Philly Shipyard. The city’s historical ties to the industry provide a rich background for professionals.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $63,357
Houston’s industrial landscape includes many shipbuilding opportunities. Companies like Bollinger Shipyards are major employers. The city’s robust economy and diverse job market make it an appealing destination.
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Mobile, AL
Average Salary: $61,391
Mobile is a key player in the shipbuilding industry, with companies like Austal USA. The city’s focus on maritime jobs creates a stable and growing job market for skilled workers.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $57,703
New Orleans offers a unique blend of maritime and cultural opportunities. Workers can find jobs with companies like HII Gulf Coast. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and strong industry presence make it an attractive place to work.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $57,456
Jacksonville is a hub for maritime industry jobs. Employers like BAE Systems Ship Repair provide many opportunities. The city’s strategic location and supportive business environment enhance job prospects.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $53,692
Corpus Christi has a thriving shipbuilding sector. Key employers include Halter Marine. The area’s economic growth and coastal location offer a dynamic setting for professionals.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $51,615
Tampa offers a mix of maritime jobs with companies like BAE Systems. The city’s coastal setting and growing industry make it an attractive place for job seekers. Tampa’s strong economy supports a vibrant job market.
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What are the best companies a Shipfitter can work for?

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General Dynamics Information Technology
Average Salary: $88,210
General Dynamics Information Technology offers Shipfitter jobs with competitive salaries. They focus on providing IT and management consulting services to government clients. Their operations span the United States.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $78,855
BAE Systems USA provides Shipfitter positions with an attractive salary. They are involved in defense, aerospace, and security. Their work takes place across the United States, with major offices in Virginia and California.
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Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC
Average Salary: $73,423
Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC offers Shipfitter jobs with a solid salary. They provide technical support and services to government and commercial clients. Their operations are primarily in the United States.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $73,376
Aerotek offers Shipfitter positions with a strong salary. They specialize in staffing services across various industries. Their locations include many cities throughout the United States.
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CTR Group
Average Salary: $70,385
CTR Group provides Shipfitter jobs with a competitive salary. They offer engineering, technical, and management consulting services. Their offices are across the United States, with a focus in the Northeast.
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RSC Solutions
Average Salary: $66,422
RSC Solutions offers Shipfitter jobs with a good salary. They provide solutions in engineering, technology, and logistics. Their operations are in various locations throughout the United States.
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General Dynamics NASSCO
Average Salary: $65,090
General Dynamics NASSCO offers Shipfitter positions with a solid salary. They focus on ship construction and ship repair. Their main facility is in California, with operations across the United States.
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General Dynamics Electric Boat
Average Salary: $64,549
General Dynamics Electric Boat provides Shipfitter jobs with a strong salary. They specialize in building submarines for the U.S. Navy. Their primary location is in Connecticut, with operations nationwide.
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Ameri-Force
Average Salary: $63,354
Ameri-Force offers Shipfitter positions with a competitive salary. They provide staffing solutions to various industries. Their operations cover multiple states across the United States.
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International Marine and Industrial Applicators, LLC
Average Salary: $61,550
International Marine and Industrial Applicators, LLC offers Shipfitter jobs with a good salary. They provide specialized marine and industrial services. Their work is primarily in the Gulf Coast region.
How to earn more as a Shipfitter?
Becoming a Shipfitter offers many opportunities for earning a good income. With the right approach and dedication, it is possible to increase earnings significantly. By focusing on several key factors, one can enhance their career in this field and achieve greater financial success.
Experience and skill level play a major role in determining a Shipfitter’s earning potential. Those who have gained a solid foundation through extensive experience and have developed advanced skills often find themselves in higher-paying positions. Continuous learning and certification in specialized areas can also open doors to better opportunities. Networking within the industry helps connect with potential employers and learn about better-paying jobs. Career advancement often comes from taking on more responsibilities and proving one’s capabilities. Keeping up with industry trends ensures Shipfitters remain competitive and in demand.
Here are five factors that can help a Shipfitter earn more:
- Experience: Gaining more years of experience leads to higher positions.
- Certification: Special certifications can make a Shipfitter more attractive to employers.
- Networking: Building connections within the industry can lead to better job offers.
- Advanced Skills: Learning new skills and technologies can increase earning potential.
- Continuous Learning: Keeping up with industry trends ensures a Shipfitter remains competitive.



