Marine Structural Fabrication Specialist

Nichols Brothers Shipbuilding; Freeland (WA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Nichols Brothers Shipbuilding in Freeland, WA is seeking a Marine Structural Fabrication Specialist to turn drawings into steel and aluminum hulls and superstructures. You’ll move between the fabrication shop, modular jigs, and on-boat assembly, translating engineering drawings into real-world parts.

The role requires 3+ years in shipbuilding or marine metalwork, basic welding skills, and comfort with reading blueprints.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in shipbuilding or marine metalwork (shipfitting preferred).
• Foundational welding skills: MIG, TIG, and Stick.
• Ability to read, interpret, and work from drawings and blueprints.
• Comfort with basic math for layout and measurement.
• Clear, concise communication and teamwork are essential.

Responsibilities

• Lay out, cut, form, and fit metal structures for new builds and rebuilds.
• Interpret drawings to plan, measure, and verify fit-up.
• Tack weld and perform minor welding with MIG/Arc processes.
• Operate metal-forming equipment and cutting tools as required.
• Maintain safety, housekeeping, and collaborate with crew.

Skills

Shipfitting experience

MIG welding

TIG welding

Blueprint reading

Measurement & layout

Communication

Safety-conscious

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Torches/oxy-fuel

Saws and bandsaws

Rollers & presses

Measuring tools

Job description

Marine Structural Fabrication SpecialistSince 1964, NBBB has crafted vessels on beautiful Whidbey Island from our yard in Freeland, WA—tugs, ferries, fire boats, fishing vessels, barges, dinner boats, and more. Our production facilities run on robust yard systems—from stormwater management to electrical, air/gas, plumbing, structural building maintenance, and light construction—so production teams can focus on building state-of-the-art ships.Step into a day where you translate drawings into steel and aluminum reality. As a Marine Structural Fabrication Specialist, you’ll shape and fit hulls, superstructures, masts, pilothouses, and engine room components—moving between the fabrication shop, modular jigs, and final assembly on the vessel.What your day looks likeLay out, cut, form, and fit metal structures for new builds and rebuilds—from initial fabrication through final erection.Switch settings seamlessly: shop fabrication, jig-based module work, and on-boat assembly.Assemble modules and superstructures using custom jigs you lay out and build.Interpret standard and metric engineering drawings to plan, measure, and verify fit-up.Tack and perform minor welding with MIG and Arc processes.Operate metal-forming equipment: shears, band saws, rollers, and press brakes.Cut with oxygen/propane torches and plasma cutters.Use grinders, levels, and tape measures with precision and consistency.Problem-solve in the moment—communicating clearly, adapting quickly, and collaborating with your crew.Uphold the ESR safety culture with safe work practices and rigorous housekeeping.Build strong, cooperative relationships with teammates and supervisors.Share your shipfitting knowledge to support learners and apprentices.Pitch in on ad hoc tasks that pop up in our fast-moving, startup-like environment.What you bring3+ years of shipbuilding or marine metalwork experience (shipfitting preferred).Foundational welding skills: MIG, TIG, and Stick.High school diploma/GED or vocational training.Comfort with basic math for layout, measurement, and fit-up.Hands-on knowledge of shipfitting tools and equipment: torches, saws, bandsaws, rollers, presses, and shears.Ability to read, interpret, and work from drawings and blueprints.Understanding of materials, fabrication methods, and marine repair/build techniques.Clear, concise communication—spoken and written.Experience working around heavy machinery.Willingness to work overtime as needed.Physical capability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs.Comfort working at heights up to 60 ft.Ability to enter confined spaces using a respirator and work in tight areas at challenging angles.Stand-out extrasAluminum and steel fabrication experience.Background in shipyard new construction or repair.Certifications or experience operating forklifts and manlifts.Shipyard Competent Person certification.Basic pipefitting and carpentry skills.Interest and aptitude for future crew leadership.Pre-employment screeningAbility to pass company pre-employment screens in background check, drug test, and physical skills test.