Marine Propulsion and Shafting Alignment Machinist

Everett Ship Repair (ESR) is building the Pacific Northwest’s next-generation hub for commercial vessel repair and conversion in Everett, Washington. Founded in 2019, we specialize in workboats and passenger vessels and are ambitiously expanding our capabilities and footprint—with the U.S. Navy right next door. With significant dry-docking capacity and a crew of seasoned pros, we’re dedicated to refining how repairs and new construction get done: safer, faster, and with precision.

A day in this role

Morning toolbox talk. You head to the deck to align a main engine to its gearbox, confirm shaft runout, and prep for sea trials. By midday, you’re fabricating an aluminum foundation, laying out to blueprint, tacking with MIG, and finishing with stick welds. After lunch, you’re machining a custom bushing on the lathe, checking tolerances with micrometers and dial indicators, then locking down alignment before the vessel heads out. It’s hands-on, varied, and deeply technical work—done independently or side-by-side with a tight-knit team.

Core responsibilities

• Install and align major equipment and propulsion systems: main engines, gear boxes, pumps, shafts, jet drives, propellers, rudders, and Z-drive systems.
• Fabricate structural machinery foundations in steel and aluminum from blueprints; perform layout, MIG and arc welding, and tacking of components.
• Align and secure main engines and gear boxes during sea trials.
• Lay out, cut, form, machine, and prepare materials for final assembly.
• Operate lathes, milling machines, grinders, drills; use dial calipers, torque wrenches, micrometers, and dial indicators.
• Inspect parts and equipment to ensure tolerances meet owner and regulatory requirements.
• Work confidently in both standard and metric; convert SAE/metric and fractions/decimals.
• Use metal forming tools: shear, brake, roll, press, and band saw.
• Operate oxygen–propane torches and plasma cutters.
• Maintain a clean, orderly work area while following all safety policies and regulations.
• Collaborate effectively or work solo, adapting and problem-solving to complete tasks.
• Communicate clearly in writing and verbally.
• Occasionally back up Inside Machinists on custom component builds using lathes, mills, drilling, and molding operations; support small/large assemblies and machine steel, alloys, and ship assemblies to blueprint specifications on conventional equipment.
• Uphold safe work practices and strong housekeeping at all times; consistently embrace the NBB safety culture.
• Build cooperative relationships with teammates and supervisors; share trade knowledge with apprentices and learners.
• Pitch in on additional tasks that arise in our dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years as a Machinery Assembler or Journeyman Machinist.
• High school diploma/GED or vocational training.
• Knowledge of shipyard safety practices and vessel terminology.
• Ability to read and interpret specifications, drawings, and blueprints.
• Solid basic math; confident with conversions (SAEmetric, fractionsdecimals).
• Clear written and verbal communication.
• Proficiency with basic hand and power tools; experience with lathes and milling machines.
• Comfort working around heavy machinery; available for overtime when needed.
• Physically able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs; work at heights up to 60 ft.
• Able to enter confined spaces with a respirator and work in tight areas at challenging angles.

Preferred

• Prior shipyard (new construction or repair) or marine construction experience.
• Laser alignment proficiency (e.g., Rotoline, Pinpoint).
• Certification as a Shipyard Competent Person.
• Experience with multiple alloys/materials (steel and aluminum).
• Working knowledge of applicable NAVSEA standard items.
• OSHA 10 certification.
• Forklift and manlift certification/experience.
• Interest and aptitude for future crew leadership roles.

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Group life insurance with optional supplemental life and disability
• Paid time off and 9 paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Culture of learning with State-Certified Apprenticeship Programs

Proficiencies

• Troubleshooting Skills
• Machine Building/Assembling
• Mechanical Troubleshooting Skills
• Motor Replacement/Repair/Maintenance
• Mechanical Testing
• Maintenance and Repair Skills
• Mechanical Assembly Skills
• Equipment Installation & Wiring
• Equipment Installation
• Manual Machining Skills
• Blueprint Reading
• bearing installation
• bearing removal
• maritime
• navsea
• rotating equipment maintenance
• shaft alignment
• shipyard
• valve overhaul
• propulsion systems

Legal

Equal Employment Opportunity: Everett Ship Repair is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, political affiliation, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability.

Everett Ship Repair is a drug free workplace, and all applicants are subject to a pre-employment drug screen and a background check.