2nd Class Gas Free Tech (Job ID: 1525)

Colonna's Shipyard; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonna’s Shipyard in Norfolk, VA seeks a Gas Free Tech to clean tanks and confined spaces on vessels, following strict safety and environmental standards.

The role involves hazardous environments, long hours, and possible travel, with on-site work in Norfolk. Prior marine maintenance experience and safety certifications are preferred for this hands-on technician role.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in tank cleaning or confined spaces.
• Knowledge of cleaning equipment and hazardous materials handling.
• Ability to lift heavy items and work in extreme conditions.
• Familiarity with safety protocols for confined spaces.

Responsibilities

• Clean tanks, bilges, and confined spaces aboard vessels.
• Handle and dispose of hazardous materials per regulations.
• Operate cleaning equipment such as water blasters, vacuums, and cleaners.
• Perform routine maintenance and checks on cleaning gear.
• Prepare tanks for inspections by removing debris and coatings.
• Record materials removed, waste disposal, and safety checks.
• Coordinate with safety personnel and other trades.

Skills

Tank cleaning

Confined spaces

Equipment operation

Safety protocols

Tools

Water blaster

Vacuum systems

Chemical cleaners

Job description

Position:2nd Class Gas Free Tech (Job ID: 1525)

Location: Norfolk, VA

Job Id:1525

# of Openings:1

2 nd Class Gas Free Tech

POSITION SUMMARY:

As a Gas Free Technician at Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc., you will play a crucial role in the maintenance and repair of marine vessels. You will be responsible for the thorough cleaning and preparation of tanks, bilges, voids, and other confined spaces on vessels for inspections, repairs, and maintenance. This role involves working in hazardous environments and requires strict adherence to safety protocols. The Gas Free Technician must be knowledgeable about safe cleaning practices, proper use of equipment, and relevant safety standards to ensure tanks are free of debris, contaminants, and hazardous materials. The technician works under the guidance of senior team members, adhering to strict safety protocols and environmental regulations.

The position is located onsite in Norfolk, VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform detailed cleaning of tanks, bilges, and other confined spaces aboard vessels, removing sludge, debris, oil, and other contaminants.
• Safely handle and dispose of hazardous materials and waste according to environmental regulations and company policies.
• Use specialized cleaning equipment, such as high-pressure water blasters, vacuum systems, and chemical cleaners, to ensure tanks are thoroughly cleaned.
• Perform routine maintenance and checks on cleaning equipment to ensure it is functioning correctly and efficiently.
• Assist in preparing tanks for inspections by removing coatings, debris, and hazardous substances, ensuring that the areas meet inspection standards.
• Maintain accurate records of cleaning activities, including details on materials removed, waste disposal, and safety checks performed.
• Work closely with gas-free technicians, safety personnel, and other trades to ensure seamless operations and adherence to safety standards.
• Work effectively as part of a team, supporting senior technicians and coordinating with other trades to ensure timely project completion.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must have at least 3 years of experience in tank cleaning or working in confined spaces, preferably in a marine or industrial setting.
• Must have general knowledge and experience in the use of cleaning equipment, hazardous material handling, and confined space entry procedures.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including working in confined spaces, lifting heavy materials, and working in various environmental conditions.
• General understanding of safety protocols related to tank cleaning, hazardous materials, and confined space work.

PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Previous technical training highly preferred.
• Certification in confined space entry, HAZWOPER, or other relevant safety certifications preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
• Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
• May ride ships at sea for extended periods
• Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
• Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
• Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
• While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
• Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
• Frequent use of respirator.
• Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.

Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Respect, Pride, Truth, Family – These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.

Pay Range: $18.84- $23.82

Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate’s relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees’ best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO).