Shipfitter/Welder

Position Overview Reporting to the Fabrication Supervisor, the Shipfitter/Welder is responsible for cutting, shaping, positioning, and welding the metal structural parts that make up the hull and framework of a vessel. This person works from blueprints to build and fit sections together, then welds them into place to meet each project's requirements. Job Duties Main responsibilities include the following. Other tasks may be added as needed.

• Read blueprints and templates to figure out where structural metal parts go and how they should be shaped
• Mark reference lines and layout points directly on metal using scribes and hand tools
• Cut, shape, bend, and roll plates, beams, and other heavy metal parts using shop machinery like shears, brakes, and rolls
• Position and align structural parts within the hull using jacks, turnbuckles, wedges, and mauls, with help from a rigger or helper
• Mark and drill holes and use temporary fasteners to hold parts in place before welding
• Install doors, hatches, brackets, gaskets, and other structural components
• Build molds or templates for one-off or unusual parts as needed
• Tack weld clips, brackets, and other parts to hold them in place before final welding
• Weld parts into permanent position using wire feed and stick welding in multiple positions
• Safely operate a variety of hand tools, power tools, welders, and cutting torches
• Double-check completed work against blueprints to make sure everything is properly aligned and secure

Background & Experience

• Military experience in a welding, fabrication, or shipboard structural role is a strong plus
• A high school diploma or equivalent; a one-year technical or trade school certificate is a plus
• Experience in industrial or marine welding and fabrication, or an equivalent mix of training and hands-on experience
• Comfortable reading and interpreting blueprints and templates
• Skilled with wire feed and stick welding in multiple positions
• Experience operating shop machinery such as shears, brakes, and rolls

Working Conditions

• Work happens outdoors and in shop environments, with exposure to noise, heat, cold, and other weather
• Some climbing (up to 100 feet) and lifting (up to 50 lbs.)
• Work with hot and sometimes hazardous materials
• Work aboard vessels, both on and off the water, including tight or confined spaces
• Occasional travel required
• Safety gear required, including hearing, eye, and head protection

Other Qualities We Value

• Comfortable working under deadlines and schedule pressure
• Strong blueprint reading skills
• Good mechanical ability and hands-on aptitude
• Able to climb ladders and gangways and work at height using fall protection
• Able to lift and carry up to 70 pounds across stairs, inclines, and uneven surfaces
• Comfortable working in a variety of physical positions, including bending, crouching, and climbing over structural obstructions