Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Structural Shipfitter (Journeyperson) to join our growing shipyard team. This position performs steel and aluminum structural work with minimal supervision on U.S. Navy vessels, Military Sealift Command (MSC) ships, and commercial vessels. The ideal candidate has strong blueprint reading skills, ship repair experience, fabrication knowledge, and a commitment to safety and quality.
Responsibilities
- Perform structural repairs, modifications, and new installations on steel and aluminum vessels.
- Read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, NAVSEA drawings, specifications, and sketches.
- Measure, layout, fabricate, and install structural components.
- Remove and replace damaged ship structures.
- Fabricate templates, foundations, and structural assemblies.
- Install aluminum structures in accordance with 5XXX standards.
- Use oxy-acetylene torches for cutting and washing operations.
- Safely operate hand tools, power tools, magnetic drills, grinders, saws, and fabrication equipment.
- Produce accurate Condition Found Reports (CFRs) and recommend corrective actions.
- Coordinate with supervisors, fire watch personnel, and production teams.
- Direct helpers and improvers as assigned.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
- Follow OSHA regulations, Lock-Out/Tag-Out procedures, and all shipyard safety requirements.
Qualifications
- Minimum 4 years of shipyard structural fitting experience
- Experience working on U.S. Navy, Military Sealift Command (MSC), or commercial vessels
- Strong understanding of ship terminology and compartment nomenclature
- Ability to read structural blueprints, weld symbols, NAVSEA Standard Items, and damage control drawings
- Experience with:
- Steel and aluminum fabrication
- Template fabrication
- Structural layout and installation
- Oxy-acetylene cutting and washing
- Structural shop equipment (shears, punches, brakes)
- Working knowledge of aluminum 5XXX fabrication processes
- Welding experience with:
- SMAW
- FCAW
- GMAW (Fillet Welds)
- Ability to use both U.S. customary and metric measurement systems
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
Physical Requirements
Candidates must be able to:
- Lift up to 100 lbs occasionally
- Work in confined spaces and at heights
- Climb ladders, scaffolding, and access vessels safely
- Stand, bend, kneel, crawl, and work in physically demanding environments
- Wear required PPE, including respirators, harnesses, flotation gear, and steel-toe boots
- Work in varying weather conditions and inside vessels with limited lighting and elevated noise levels
Why Join Us?
- Competitive Pay
- Overtime Opportunities
- Long-Term Career Growth
- Work on U.S. Navy and Commercial Marine Projects
- Safety-First Culture
- Stable Shipyard Environment
If you're an experienced Structural Shipfitter looking for your next opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.