Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Outside Machinist (Journeyperson) to join our 2nd Shift ship repair team in Norfolk, VA. This position is responsible for the removal, overhaul, installation, alignment, and testing of main and auxiliary shipboard machinery aboard U.S. Navy, Military Sealift Command (MSC), and commercial vessels.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience working with propulsion systems, mechanical equipment, and precision alignment while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and craftsmanship. This role offers the opportunity to work on challenging repair, maintenance, and modernization projects in one of the nation's premier ship repair environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Remove, overhaul, install, align, and test shipboard mechanical equipment.
• Perform repairs and maintenance on:
  • Main Reduction Gears (MRG)
  • Pumps
  • Valves
  • Hydraulic systems
  • Steam systems
  • Bearings
  • Propellers
  • Shafts
  • Auxiliary machinery
• Perform in-place valve repairs and mechanical troubleshooting.
• Conduct laser alignment and reverse indicator alignment of rotating equipment.
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical manuals, specifications, and engineering drawings.
• Prepare detailed Condition Found Reports (CFRs) with recommendations for corrective action.
• Develop material take-offs for procurement.
• Participate in operational testing, inspections, and equipment verification.
• Coordinate work activities with multiple trades throughout ship repair projects.
• Implement and maintain Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures.
• Supervise and provide technical guidance to Helpers and Improvers.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Complete Objective Quality Evidence (OQE) documentation in accordance with work specifications.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years of machinist experience, including 2 years in a shipyard or maritime environment.
• Strong understanding of ship repair terminology and vessel compartment nomenclature.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, mechanical drawings, technical manuals, and Process Control Procedures (PCPs).
• Proficient in the use of precision measuring instruments.
• Working knowledge of:
  • Laser alignment
  • Reverse indicator alignment
  • Mechanical equipment installation and repair
  • Rotating machinery maintenance
• Comprehensive understanding of NAVSEA Standard Items, including:
  • 009-04 – Tests, Inspections, and Checkpoints
  • 009-23 – Interferences
  • 009-24 – Blanking and Match Marks
• Thorough understanding of OSHA regulations and Lock-Out/Tag-Out procedures.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations using both U.S. customary and metric measurement systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to lead small work crews and mentor junior personnel.

Preferred Experience

• U.S. Navy vessel repair
• Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessel repair
• Commercial ship repair and modernization
• Shipyard maintenance and overhaul projects

Safety Expectations

• Follow OSHA regulations and company safety policies.
• Wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Maintain a clean and hazard-free work area.
• Follow Lock-Out/Tag-Out, confined space, and fire prevention procedures.
• Promote a strong safety-first culture.

Physical Requirements

Candidates must be able to:

• Lift, push, or pull up to 100 pounds occasionally.
• Frequently lift up to 20 pounds.
• Stand, bend, kneel, crawl, crouch, and climb throughout the workday.
• Work from ladders, scaffolding, manlifts, and elevated platforms.
• Access confined spaces through openings as small as 18" x 36".
• Work overhead using hand and power tools.
• Maintain balance while working on uneven surfaces.
• Safely work in loud industrial environments while wearing required PPE.

Work Environment

Work is performed aboard vessels, in dry docks, on piers, and throughout active shipyard facilities. Employees should expect exposure to:

• Indoor and outdoor environments
• Heat, cold, humidity, wind, and rain
• Confined spaces
• Elevated work areas
• Heavy machinery and industrial equipment
• Loud noise levels
• Welding, grinding, and mechanical operations

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Why Join Our Team?

• Competitive compensation
• 2nd Shift Opportunity
• Stable, long-term employment
• Work on U.S. Navy, Military Sealift Command, and commercial vessels
• Career advancement opportunities
• Safety-first culture
• Join a team of skilled maritime professionals supporting critical ship repair operations