Job Description

About the job Shipfitter


Venture Dynamics is seeking skilled and experienced Shipfitters to perform structural fabrication, fit-up, modification, and repair of shipboard components aboard Navy and commercial vessels. Shipfitters will lay out, cut, heat, form, position, and align structural parts such as bulkheads, foundations, frames, collars, and stiffeners, supporting major structural renewal and fabrication work in shipboard and industrial environments. This role requires advanced blueprint interpretation, strong structural knowledge, and the ability to work safely in confined spaces, elevated areas, and active marine repair settings. This position supports shipyard projects throughout the Hampton Roads region of Virginia , including Norfolk, Portsmouth, Newport News, Hampton, and Yorktown.

Per diem may be available on select projects depending on contract requirements and travel distance.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural layout, fit-up, and fabrication using drawings, sketches, and NAVSEA specifications
• Fit, align, and install bulkheads, foundations, brackets, frames, collars, stiffeners, and other structural reinforcements
• Prep and fit weld joints, ensuring proper bevels, gaps, tolerances, and alignment for welding teams
• Use oxy-fuel cutting, heating, beveling, and burning equipment as required
• Operate grinders, cutting tools, clamps, dogs, wedges, come-alongs, levels, and other structural tools
• Take accurate measurements and verify alignment using squares, tapes, plumb lines, and precision instruments
• Assist with structural modifications, insert installation, steel replacement, and removal of damaged components
• Work in tanks, voids, machinery spaces, overheads, and tight compartments aboard vessels
• Support staging, rigging, lifting, and movement of structural materials in coordination with other trades
• Follow NAVSEA, OSHA Maritime, and shipyard safety requirements
• Maintain housekeeping standards and practice safe tool and equipment handling

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of shipfitting experience in ship repair or marine fabrication environments
• Strong proficiency with structural layout, fit-up, and fabrication
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, structural drawings, and NAVSEA specifications
• Ability to safely and effectively use oxy-fuel torches, grinders, chain falls, come-alongs, clamps, wedges, levels, and similar trade tools
• Must supply and maintain a personal tool set appropriate for shipfitting (specialty tools provided as required)
• Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, navigate confined spaces, and work aboard vessels
• Ability to lift 40-60 lbs and perform physically demanding structural tasks
• Must pass background check and drug screening
• Ability to obtain DBIDS/base access when required
• Reliable transportation and consistent attendance
• Ability to work overtime, nights, weekends, and variable shifts as needed

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working aboard Navy vessels or to NAVSEA structural standards
• Experience with hot-work prep, structural joint preparation, insert installation, and steel renewal
• OSHA-10 Maritime
• Ability to wear a respirator when required for hot-work, confined-space support, blasting, paint, or insulation areas
• Experience supporting rigging or multi-trade structural operations

Additional Information

• Work occurs aboard ships, in dry docks, and in tanks, voids, and industrial fabrication environments
• PPE provided according to project and customer requirements

Venture Dynamics is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Job Tags

Daily paid, Contract work, Night shift, Weekend work

Similar Jobs