Structural Equipment Operator

NCSL International; Portsmouth (VA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

IMIA, LLC is seeking a skilled Structural Equipment Operator to join our shop fabrication team. You will set up and operate fabrication and machining equipment, including press brakes, CNC plasma and waterjet tables, milling machines, to produce components meeting naval specs.

A strong technical background, the ability to read naval blueprints and work instructions, and attention to safety are essential. This is a full-time, on-site role in Portsmouth, VA, requiring precise cutting, layout work

Qualifications

• Ability to read naval blueprints and schematics to determine cutting paths and material requirements.
• Proficient in CAD and 2D/3D drawing layouts for cutting and machining.
• Experience with CNC water jet and plasma cutting systems preferred.
• Strong mathematical and measurement skills for precise cuts.
• Forklift operation experience.
• Commitment to safety and quality in a fast-paced shop.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor shop equipment including press brakes, plasma cutters, waterjet, and CNC mills.
• Blueprint interpretation and cutting layouts; create/adjust layouts using CAD software.
• Load/unload materials safely with forklifts and ensure proper alignment before cuts.
• Perform in-process and final quality inspections using calipers and micrometers.
• Maintain and troubleshoot machines; report issues to supervisors.
• Follow all safety protocols and keep a clean, organized workspace.
• Communicate project status and potential issues with team and supervisors.

Skills

Blueprint interpretation

Quality mindset

Problem solving

Forklift operation

Mathematics

Communication skills

Safety awareness

Troubleshooting

Reading blueprints

Education

High school diploma or GED

Vocational training or apprenticeship in CNC fabrication/welding

Tools

CAD software

Job description

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

IMIA,LLC is the only national marine surface preparation painting contractor servicing every U.S. Port with a mobile full time workforce that ensures that a quality product is delivered on time every time. IMIA, LLC has the equipment, seasoned deckplate supervision and mechanics, as well as rigorous corporate safety and quality programs and financial strength to support our customer's preservation needs in a truly superior and comprehensive fashion.

IMIA, LLC offers a comprehensive benefit package to eligible employees. Eligible employees may enroll in:

• Health
• Dental
• Vision
• Life
• LTD
• Accident
• Critical Illness
• 401k

Employees and their household members are also eligible to participate in the company's Employee Assistance Program.

Per Diem OR Dislocation Allowance may be provided to eligible employees to reimburse some or all of the cost an employee might be reasonably expected to incur for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses while traveling out of town for work.

EOE STATEMENT

IMIA, LLC is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, age, sex, disability status, marital status, status as a covered veteran, genetics, or any other protected groups under state, federal or local Equal Opportunity Laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment including but not limited to hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.

TITLE: Structural Equipment Operator

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

PAY RANGE: $25.00-$45.00 per hour DOE

DEPT/DIV: Structural

REPORTS TO: Manufacturing Manager

FT / PT STATUS: Full Time

SUMMARY

IMIA, LLC is seeking a skilled Structural Equipment Operator to join our shop fabrication team. In this role, you will set up and operate a variety of fabrication and machining equipment, including press brakes, CNC plasma tables, CNC waterjet machines, milling machines, and other similar equipment to produce components that meet naval specifications and industry standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background, the ability to interpret naval blueprints and work instructions, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. A high level of attention to detail and strong commitment to safety and quality are essential.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Set up, operate, and monitor a variety of shop equipment, including press brakes, plasma cutters, waterjet machines, milling machines, and other fabrication or machining equipment.
• Blueprint Interpretation & Cutting Layouts: Read and interpret complex naval blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings to determine the proper cutting paths, machine settings, and material requirements. Create and adjust cutting layouts using CAD software.
• Create and adjust cutting and machining layouts using CAD software.
• Material Handling & Setup: Safely load and unload materials using forklifts or other material-handling equipment; ensure proper alignment and setup before initiating cuts or forming processes.
• Quality Control: Perform in-process and final quality inspections using precision measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and tape measures to verify accuracy and tolerances.
• Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Conduct routine maintenance, cleaning, and calibration of machines. Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and perform repairs or report issues to supervisors for resolution.
• Safety: Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures, including wearing proper PPE, ensuring proper ventilation for fumes, and maintaining a clean, organized workspace. Assist in maintaining a safe working environment for all team members.
• Communication: Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors regarding project status, potential issues, and improvements. Follow instructions from supervision and provide feedback on work processes.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

• No formal supervisor responsibilities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Technical Skills: Proficiency in CAD or other 2D & 3D drawing software.
• Ability to use precision measurement tools (e.g., calipers, tape measures) to ensure accurate cuts.
• Experience: Previous experience with CNC water jet and plasma cutting systems is preferred but not required. Experience using and/or programming manual, semi-automated, or automated machines such as CNC mills or lathes are a plus.
• Blueprint Reading: Strong ability to read and interpret complex blueprints and schematics.
• Material Knowledge: Understanding of materials, thickness tolerances, and fabrication behavior across varying metals.
• Physical Requirements: Excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to stand for long periods, lift materials up to 50 lbs, and work in a workshop environment.
• Safety Standards: Knowledge and adherence to safety practices related to operating industrial machinery, working with high-pressure water jets, plasma systems, and handling hazardous materials.
• Problem-Solving: Strong troubleshooting skills, with the ability to identify, diagnose, and resolve issues that arise during the cutting process.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with the supervision and team members.
• Vocational Training or Apprenticeship: Completion of a vocational school program or apprenticeship related to CNC machine operation, fabrication, or welding is preferred.
• Mathematical Skills: Strong mathematical abilities, including understanding measurements, conversions, and geometric calculations for precise cutting and layout.
• Forklift Operation: Experience in safely operating forklifts or other material-handling equipment in a manufacturing environment.
• Power Tools & Shop Equipment: Skilled in the use of power tools and general shop equipment, ensuring safe and efficient operation.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school graduate, or GED preferred.
• Six months to one-year related experience and/or training

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Most work performed will be onboard a ship, in a dry dock or shipyard under fast- paced conditions; frequently requiring overtime.
• Consistent exposure to extreme temperatures, outdoor elements, high noise levels, toxic or caustic chemicals and dusty conditions.

EQUIPMENT USED

• Marking tools (sharpies, layout dye), heat-resistant mats/gloves, thickness gauges, tape measurers (metric & imperial), calipers & micrometers, combination square or straight edges, Scribes or carbide-tipped markers for material marking, utility knives, angle finders or protractors, center punches, crescent wrenches, clamps, vice grips, chalk/soapstone, pry bars, levels, brushes & brooms

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

• May be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions

LOCATION VA, Portsmouth

EXEMPT/NON-EXEMPT Non-Exempt

PI287112624