Explore how your federal experience as a Shipwright (GS-5220) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Entry-Level Shipwright, Apprentice Ship Carpenter, Junior Marine Technician | Assist in the construction, maintenance, and repair of ships and marine vessels under supervision. Perform basic fabrication and assembly tasks, and learn to operate various hand tools and machinery used in shipbuilding. | $30,000 - $45,000 |
| 5-7 | Shipwright Technician, Marine Fabrication Specialist, Mid-level Shipwright | Execute construction and repair tasks on vessels with moderate supervision, including reading blueprints, performing material calculations, and applying woodworking or metalworking techniques. Assist with project management and training of entry-level workers. | $45,000 - $65,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior Shipwright, Project Leader - Marine Construction, Shipbuilding Supervisor | Oversee ship construction projects, ensuring compliance with standards and specifications. Coordinate with other departments, manage a team of shipwrights, and handle project budgets and timelines. Serve as a technical advisor on complex tasks. | $65,000 - $85,000 |
| 10-11 | Lead Shipwright Engineer, Marine Engineering Manager, Ship Design Specialist | Direct and manage large-scale shipbuilding projects, including design, materials selection, and quality control. Work collaboratively with engineering teams to innovate in ship design and manufacturing processes. Engage with clients and stakeholders on project specifications and deliverables. | $85,000 - $110,000 |
| 12-13 | Director of Shipbuilding Operations, Senior Marine Construction Manager, Chief Shipwright | Establish strategic direction for shipbuilding operations. Oversee multiple projects, manage a large team, and ensure safety and regulatory compliance. Innovate operational efficiencies and forge partnerships with suppliers and client organizations. | $110,000 - $140,000 |
| 14-15 | Vice President of Marine Engineering, Chief Operating Officer - Shipbuilding, Senior Vice President of Fleet Operations | Lead the overall shipbuilding strategy, focusing on customer relationship management, new technologies, and market competitiveness. Responsible for the profitability and performance of the shipbuilding division. | $140,000 - $180,000 |
| SES | Executive Director of Marine Construction, Chief Executive Officer - Maritime Services, Senior Vice President of Global Shipbuilding | Drive the strategic vision for the organization, influence industry standards and policies, and represent company interests at the government and international levels. Optimize resources, manage complex operations, and lead innovative projects that enhance the company's market position. | $180,000 - $250,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
The Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential demonstrates expertise in welding processes, quality control, and safety regulations, which are critical in shipbuilding and repair. This certification can help shipwrights qualify for a wider range of positions in the civilian sector, enhancing their employability in industries that require high-quality welding standards.
American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) Certification
Obtaining an ABYC Certification indicates proficiency in the standards for the design, construction, and maintenance of recreational boats. This credential not only validates a shipwright's skills but also enhances their appeal to employers in the marine industry, showcasing their commitment to safety and quality.
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Shipfitting Certification
The NCCER Shipfitting Certification provides foundational knowledge and skills in shipbuilding, including blueprint reading, metal preparation, and assembly. With this certification, a shipwright can demonstrate industry-recognized skills, making them more competitive in the civilian job market.
American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder
The AWS Certified Welder credential affirms an individual's welding skills to national standards, a crucial aspect of ship construction and repair. This certification opens up job opportunities in various sectors, including shipyards, manufacturing, and construction, where welding is a valued asset.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification signifies advanced project management skills, which are valuable in any sector involving construction, including shipbuilding. A shipwright with this certification can leverage their technical skills in project oversight roles, increasing their opportunities for advancement in civilian employment.
Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Engineering or Naval Architecture
A Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering or Naval Architecture provides a comprehensive education in the principles of ship design, construction, and systems. This level of education not only enhances technical knowledge but also positions a shipwright for higher-level positions and leadership roles in the civilian maritime industry.
Marine Engineering Technology Certification
This certification offers specialized knowledge in marine engineering systems, which is essential for maintaining and operating ships efficiently. A shipwright with this qualification is particularly attractive to employers in the commercial shipping industry, where technical proficiency is critical.
Safety Management Systems (SMS) Certification
Obtaining a Safety Management Systems (SMS) Certification demonstrates a strong emphasis on safety protocols and regulations in maritime operations. With increasing focus on safety in the civilian sector, shipwrights who possess this certification are more likely to be favored by employers looking to enhance their safety standards.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal GS-5220 Shipwright role to the private sector can be both exciting and daunting. While your experience is invaluable, the private sector often requires a different mindset and approach. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating this transition successfully.
Embrace Change: In the federal sector, processes can be rigid, and bureaucracy can be overwhelming. In contrast, the private sector often values agility, innovation, and adaptability. Be open to new ideas and processes that may differ from your federal experience.
Value Results Over Procedures: In federal roles, procedures often take precedence. In private companies, results matter more. Start focusing on outcomes and success metrics that demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
Confidence in Skills: You bring a wealth of specialized skills and experience. Acknowledge these competencies and be confident in conveying their value to potential employers.
Customer-Centric Approach: Understand that private sector roles often prioritize customer satisfaction and business outcomes. Frame your federal experience to show how you have contributed to organizational goals.
Use Private Sector Language: Federal job titles and jargon may not resonate with private employers. Research industry-specific terms and incorporate them into your resume. For example, instead of "Shipwright," consider terms like "Marine Technician" or "Marine Fabricator" depending on the context.
Focus on Accomplishments: Highlight achievements rather than duties. Use action verbs and quantify your successes. Instead of stating that you "operated machinery," write "operated and maintained advanced shipbuilding machinery, leading to a 20% increase in production efficiency."
Tailor Your Resume for Each Application: Customize your resume for each job application by aligning your experiences with the job description. Use keywords from the job posting to get past automated resume screenings.
Professional Summary: Begin with a strong summary that encapsulates your experience, achievements, and what you’re looking for in a new role. It should convey your unique selling points compellingly.
Research the Company: Understand the company’s products, culture, and industry. Tailor your responses to show how your background aligns with their mission.
Practice Behavioral Questions: Prepare for interviews by practicing common behavioral questions like "Tell me about a time you faced a challenge." Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your responses.
Communicate Success Stories: Share specific examples from your experience that demonstrate how you have solved problems or exceeded goals. These stories should reflect your ability to adapt and drive results.
Be Ready to Discuss Transition: Be prepared to explain why you are transitioning to the private sector. Frame your reasons positively, emphasizing your desire for new challenges and growth opportunities.
Utilize LinkedIn: Create a strong LinkedIn profile highlighting your skills and experiences. Connect with industry professionals, and engage in discussions, and groups relevant to your field.
Attend Industry Events: Participate in industry seminars, workshops, trade shows, or webinars. These events are excellent opportunities to meet potential employers and expand your professional network.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to individuals in roles or companies you’re interested in. Request informational interviews to learn more about their careers and gain insights on the industry.
Join Professional Associations: Look for organizations relevant to your field (e.g., marine technology or engineering societies). Membership can provide networking opportunities, resources, and industry insights.
Identify Transferable Skills: List the skills you’ve developed in your federal role—like project management, teamwork, compliance, or safety standards—and think about how they apply to private sector positions. For instance, project management experience in shipbuilding can be relevant to any project management role in different industries.
Highlight Technical Skills: Federal jobs often involve specialized skills. Make sure to list technical proficiencies and certifications clearly, as these can set you apart in the private sector.
Showcase Adaptability: Emphasize instances where you adapted to change or led initiatives that improved processes. This reflects your ability to transition smoothly into the private sector's more fluid environment.
Quantify Your Impact: Whenever possible, use numbers to describe your results. Did you reduce costs, improve efficiency, or lead successful projects? Quantitative data provides concrete evidence of your abilities.
Transitioning from a federal role to the private sector requires a shift in both mindset and approach. By adapting how you present your skills and experiences, utilizing effective networking strategies, and preparing thoroughly for the application and interview processes, you can position yourself as a strong candidate. Remember, your federal experience has equipped you with a diverse skill set that is valuable in the private sector—embrace it, and confidently pursue your next career chapter.