Shipyard Steel Structures Mechanic (1st Class)

Location: Newport News, VA
Job Type: Full-Time
Industry: Shipbuilding / Ship Repair / Maritime Trades

Build what sails

Join a team dedicated to delivering safe, high-quality vessels on schedule. In this senior-level role, you turn engineered intent into steel reality—translating drawings into layouts, fitting components to tight tolerances, and partnering across trades to keep production moving without compromising safety.

Your impact

• Decode blueprints, sketches, and work packages to plan and execute structural fabrication.
• Fit and assemble hull structures: foundations, bulkheads, decks, frames, stiffeners, brackets.
• Measure, mark, and cut using hand/power tools and thermal cutting processes.
• Tack weld to secure assemblies ahead of final welds.
• Align structures using chain falls, come‑alongs, jacks, and wedges.
• Confirm tolerances with precision measuring instruments.
• Ensure workmanship meets engineering specifications and quality requirements.
• Inspect finished work, document results, and coordinate rework as needed.
• Collaborate closely with welders, riggers, supervisors, and other crafts.
• Maintain a clean, safe worksite in compliance with OSHA and shipyard rules.
• Handle additional assigned tasks to support schedule commitments.

What you need to succeed

• 4+ years of shipfitting experience (new construction and/or repair).
• Successful completion of a hands-on shipfitter trade test.
• High proficiency in reading complex structural drawings and blueprints.
• Hands-on experience with shipboard structural fabrication and installation.
• Solid knowledge of shipyard safety practices and quality standards.
• Accuracy with measuring and layout equipment; strong fit-up techniques.
• Ability to work independently with minimal oversight.

Tools and techniques

• Blueprint reading; structural layout and fabrication
• Oxy-fuel cutting (preferred); plasma cutting (preferred); carbon arc gouging (preferred)
• Tack welding; precision measurement
• Material handling; rigging awareness
• Problem solving and troubleshooting

Physical realities of the work

• Regularly lift up to 50 lbs.
• Climb ladders and scaffolding; work at elevation.
• Operate in confined spaces, tanks, and compartments.
• Spend long periods standing, bending, kneeling, crawling, and reaching.
• Work outdoors in variable weather.

Work setting and schedule

• Production shipyard environment with noise, dust, fumes, and heavy equipment.
• Overtime, weekend, and shift work as needed to meet schedules.

Preferred background

• Experience at major shipyards (e.g., Huntington Ingalls Industries) or naval repair facilities.
• Work on U.S. Navy vessels.
• Current DBIDS or eligibility for shipyard access.
• OSHA 10 Maritime credential.