Shipwright
Federal Wage Grade shipwright position constructing, repairing, and maintaining wooden ship components, decking, and marine structures at federal shipyards and naval facilities.
💰WG-5220 Salary Information
Federal Wage System Pay
Federal Wage Grade (WG) pay varies by geographic location and is determined by local prevailing wage surveys.
Look Up WG Pay by LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-5220
Qualification requirements not yet available for this series.
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ✓Experience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
📝How to Qualify for WG-5220
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal shipwright position
- 1
Review Trade/Craft Requirements
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
- 2
Document Your Experience
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
- 3
Gather Credentials
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume highlighting your hands-on trade experience, tools and equipment operated, safety training, and specific projects completed. Include hours worked per week.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
📋Typical Duties
- •Perform skilled trade work in accordance with established standards, specifications, and safety procedures
- •Operate, maintain, and repair trade-specific equipment, tools, and machinery
- •Read and interpret blueprints, technical manuals, work orders, and specifications
- •Inspect completed work for quality, accuracy, and compliance with requirements
- •Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in clean, safe, and operational condition
- •Document work performed including time, materials used, and completion status
- •Coordinate with supervisors and other trades on project requirements and schedules
- •Follow all safety protocols including proper use of PPE and hazardous material handling
- •Train and assist lower-grade workers in trade techniques and procedures
- •Requisition materials, parts, and supplies needed to complete assigned work
🎯Key Competencies
Understanding of trade-specific tools, equipment, materials, and techniques required for the position
Physical coordination and skill in using hands and tools to perform precise work
Knowledge of workplace safety procedures, OSHA standards, and proper use of personal protective equipment
Ability to diagnose issues, troubleshoot problems, and determine effective repair solutions
Attention to detail ensuring work meets specifications, standards, and quality requirements
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, diagrams, and work orders
Proficiency in operating trade-specific machinery, power tools, and specialized equipment
Knowledge of preventive maintenance, inspection protocols, and equipment care
Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and customers about work status
Flexibility to work in various conditions and adjust to changing priorities and assignments
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
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Grade Levels
Grade information not available
Related Series
❓Frequently Asked Questions about WG-5220
What is a Shipwright?
A Shipwright (WG-5220) constructs, repairs, and maintains wooden ship components, decking, and marine structures at federal shipyards and naval facilities. This traditional marine trade works on ship interiors, decking, and wooden structural elements.
How much does a federal Shipwright make?
Federal Shipwrights (WG-5220) are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Journeyman wages (WG-10/11) typically range $28-$42 per hour depending on locality. Annual earnings range $58,000-$87,000. This is a specialized shipyard trade.
What are the requirements for WG-5220 positions?
WG-5220 requires demonstrated shipwright and marine carpentry skills. Qualifications include wooden ship construction knowledge, blueprint reading, ability to work in shipyard environments, and skill with both traditional hand tools and modern power equipment.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-5220?
Military shipboard carpentry experience provides relevant skills. Navy Damage Controlmen (DC) with carpentry duties, Seabee Builders (BU), and ship repair personnel have transferable skills. Shipwright work requires additional specialized marine construction training.
What is the career progression for Shipwright?
Shipwrights progress to journeyman (WG-10/11) and lead positions. This specialized trade exists primarily at naval shipyards. Career paths include shipyard supervision, marine construction management, or historic ship preservation work.
How do I apply for WG-5220 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Shipwright' or series '5220.' Positions exist primarily at naval shipyards (Norfolk, Puget Sound, Pearl Harbor, Portsmouth). Highlight your marine carpentry experience, blueprint reading, and shipyard safety knowledge. Veterans receive preference.
Ready to Apply for WG-5220?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.