2nd Class Shipfitter (Job ID: 1519)

Colonna's Shipyard; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc. is seeking an experienced 2nd Class Shipfitter to assist in fabricating, assembling, and installing structural components aboard ships. You will interpret blueprints, measure and cut metal, and fit and weld components under guidance from senior shipfitters or supervisors.

This onsite role in Norfolk, VA may require extended hours and occasional travel. Responsibilities include cutting/fabricating metal, installing bulkheads and decks, interpreting blueprints, tack

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of shipfitting experience in a marine or shipyard.
• Proficient in metalworking, welding, and blueprint interpretation.
• Strong understanding of ship construction and structural integrity.
• Ability to lift heavy materials, work at heights, and operate in confined spaces.
• Proficient in Flux Core Welding (FCAW) with tack welding in vertical/overhead positions.

Responsibilities

• Cut and fabricating metal components using tools and machinery (burning torches, saws, shears).
• Assemble and install structural components such as bulkheads, frames, and decks per specifications.
• Interpret blueprints, schematics, and templates to determine project specs.
• Perform tack welding to secure parts before final welding.
• Operate hand and power tools for fabrication and repair tasks.
• Inspect completed work for alignment, fit and structural integrity.
• Make adjustments to achieve precision and quality.
• Work as part of a team with senior technicians and coordinate with other trades.

Skills

Shipfitting experience

Welding / FCAW

Blueprint interpretation

Physical stamina

Job description

2nd Class Shipfitter

POSITION SUMMARY

As a Shipfitter at Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc., you will assist in the fabricating, assembling, and installing of structural components and systems aboard ships and within shipyard facilities. This role involves interpreting blueprints, measuring and cutting metal, and fitting and welding components under the guidance of senior shipfitters or supervisors.

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

• Assist in cutting and fabricating metal components using various tools and machinery, including burning torches, saws, and shears.
• Assemble and install structural components such as bulkheads, frames, and decks, ensuring proper alignment and fit according to project specifications.
• Interpret blueprints, schematics, and templates to determine project specifications.
• Perform tack welding to secure parts in place prior to final welding.
• Operate hand and power tools, including grinders, drills, and cutting torches, for fabrication and repair tasks.
• Inspect completed work to ensure alignment, fit, and structural integrity meet specifications.
• Make adjustments as necessary to achieve precision and quality 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 shipfitting, in a marine or shipyard environment.
• Must demonstrate basic knowledge of cutting, shaping, and assembling metal components.
• Must be proficient in metalworking, welding, and blueprint interpretation.
• Must have a strong understanding of ship construction and structural integrity.
• Must be able to lift heavy materials, work at heights, and operate in confined spaces.
• Must be proficient in Flux Core Welding (FCAW) with the ability to Tack Weld as needed in both the vertical and overhead positions.

PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous technical training highly preferred.
• Relevant certifications in shipfitting, welding, or related fields are preferred.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• Minimal Travel; 10% or less.

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.

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.

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.

Pay Range: $23.89- $30.22

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).