SHIPFITTERS

Shipfitter – Shipyard / Marine Trades

Location: Norfolk, Virginia

Industry: Shipbuilding, Ship Repair, Naval and Commercial Marine Construction

About the Role

Tidewater Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to support naval and commercial vessel construction, maintenance, and repair projects throughout Hampton Roads. Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels.

This position is ideal for skilled trades professionals with experience interpreting shipyard drawings, performing structural fit-up, and preparing assemblies for welding in fast-paced shipyard environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Read and interpret shipyard blueprints, drawings, sketches, work packages, and technical specifications.
• Lay out, fabricate, fit, and align structural steel and aluminum components using established shipyard procedures.
• Cut, shape, bevel, grind, and prepare materials for welding and assembly operations.
• Fit and tack structural components including bulkheads, decks, frames, foundations, brackets, hangers, and supports.
• Install shipboard foundations, equipment supports, and structural assemblies according to specifications.
• Use measuring tools, levels, squares, templates, and layout equipment to ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Assist with positioning, aligning, and securing structural components using approved rigging and lifting methods.
• Perform structural repairs, modifications, and replacement work aboard naval and commercial vessels.
• Work safely in confined spaces, elevated work areas, dry docks, and aboard vessels under varying environmental conditions.
• Follow all shipyard safety, quality assurance, and production requirements.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience as a Shipfitter, Structural Fitter, or Marine Structural Mechanic in a shipyard or industrial environment.
• Ability to perform layout and fit-up from blueprints, drawings, and work packages with limited supervision.
• Experience with burning, grinding, beveling, drilling, tapping, and structural fitting operations.
• Proficient in using measuring tools, levels, squares, templates, and cutting equipment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in confined spaces, at heights, and aboard vessels.
• Strong understanding of shipyard safety procedures and quality standards.
• Must be able to pass required pre-employment screenings.
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain DBIDS access and possess or be able to obtain a TWIC card.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience performing structural repairs and modifications aboard U.S. Navy vessels, submarines, or commercial vessels.
• Experience installing shipboard foundations, resilient mounts, hangers, and equipment support systems.
• Familiarity with NAVSEA standards, ship repair specifications, and marine construction practices.
• OSHA 10, Fire Watch, Confined Space, or related shipyard certifications.
• Ability to perform tack welding and minor welding operations.
• Prior experience at major shipyards such as HII Newport News, BAE Systems, NASSCO, Colonna's Shipyard, or similar facilities.
• Spanish-English bilingual communication skills.

Why Tidewater Staffing?

• Competitive pay with overtime opportunities.
• Weekly direct deposit.
• Medical, dental, and supplemental benefits available.
• Long-term shipyard projects with opportunities for advancement.
• Safety-focused culture with training and PPE support.
• Opportunities supporting critical naval and maritime programs that help keep America's fleet mission-ready.