Shipyard Carpenter

Kaizen Lab Inc.; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Kaizen Lab Inc. is seeking a Shipyard Carpenter to support ship repair, marine construction, and structural restoration projects. The role involves fabricating and installing wood, composite, and marine-grade materials, reading ship plans, and maintaining safety on site.

The successful candidate will have 3+ years in shipyard carpentry, with drills into dock framing, pile installation, and form setup. Expect outdoor work aboard vessels with PPE and adherence to OSHA standards.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of carpentry experience in a shipyard, waterfront, or marine construction setting.
• Familiarity with treated timber, marine-grade plywood, and structural framing.
• Strong working knowledge of layout tools such as levels, squares, measuring tapes, and plumb lines.
• Experience using pneumatic tools, impact drivers, and chain hoists.
• Basic knowledge of pile installation, dock framing, and form setup.

Responsibilities

• Perform skilled carpentry in shipyard environments, including fabrication and installation of wood, composite, and synthetic materials.
• Construct and repair marine structures such as docks, ramps, seawalls, decking, and vessel interiors.
• Read and interpret ship plans, construction drawings, and blueprints.
• Operate power tools and hand tools, including saws, drills, grinders, and fastening systems.
• Assist in concrete formwork, demolition, layout, and timber framing.
• Support pile driving, rigging, and heavy material handling as needed.
• Collaborate with engineers, project managers, and fellow trades to ensure quality, safe work.
• Maintain a safe and organized workspace in compliance with OSHA and company protocols.

Skills

Carpentry

Marine construction

Layout tools

Pneumatic tools

Heavy lifting

Tools

Levels

Squares

Measuring tapes

Plumb lines

Impact drivers

Chain hoists

Job description

Job Overview

Join a team that builds with precision, works with integrity, and values craftsmanship at every level. We are a leading marine and industrial construction firm seeking a skilled Shipyard Carpenterto support ship repair, marine construction, and structural restoration projects. From bulkheads and dry docks to interior vessel outfitting, your work will help shape and maintain vital maritime infrastructure across a range of challenging and rewarding environments.

What You’ll Do

• Perform skilled carpentry in shipyard environments, including fabrication and installation of wood, composite, and synthetic materials
• Construct and repair marine structures such as docks, ramps, seawalls, decking, and vessel interiors
• Read and interpret ship plans, construction drawings, and blueprints
• Operate power tools and hand tools, including saws, drills, grinders, and fastening systems
• Assist in concrete formwork, demolition, layout, and timber framing
• Support pile driving, rigging, and heavy material handling as needed
• Collaborate with engineers, project managers, and fellow trades to ensure quality, safe work
• Maintain a safe and organized workspace in compliance with OSHA and company protocols

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications:

• 3+ years of carpentry experience in a shipyard, waterfront, or marine construction setting
• Familiarity with treated timber, marine-grade plywood, and structural framing
• Strong working knowledge of layout tools such as levels, squares, measuring tapes, and plumb lines
• Experience using pneumatic tools, impact drivers, and chain hoists
• Basic knowledge of pile installation, dock framing, and form setup
• Must be able to lift 50+ lbs, climb ladders, work at heights, and perform tasks in confined or elevated spaces
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug test and background screening

Bonus Skills (Preferred):

• Experience with concrete reinforcement and formwork
• Knowledge of NAVSEA specifications or military shipbuilding standards
• OSHA 10 or 30 Maritime Certification
• Familiarity with fiberglass or composite material installations

Who You Are

You’re someone who thrives in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. You take pride in doing the job right the first time, whether installing a bulkhead, framing an interior cabin, or fitting a new seawall. You adapt quickly, think critically, and bring an old-school work ethic to every task. You respect the risks of the job and prioritize safety as much as performance.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed outdoors and aboard vessels in varying weather conditions
• May involve confined space entry, overhead work, climbing, and extended periods of standing
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times on job site