SY Helper

Shipyard Helper

Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking Shipyard Helpers for work in Norfolk, VA, Chesapeake, VA, and Portsmouth, VA shipyards.

Candidates with an Active Secret Security Clearance are strongly encouraged to apply. Active security clearances are a significant advantage for current and upcoming shipyard opportunities.

Job Duties

• Assist skilled trades personnel including Shipfitters, Welders, Riggers, Electricians, Painters, Pipefitters, Machinists, and Mechanics with daily shipyard operations.
• Gather, transport, and organize tools, materials, and equipment at job sites.
• Clean and prepare work areas before, during, and after work is performed.
• Remove debris, scrap material, and excess equipment from vessels, dry docks, and work sites.
• Assist with material handling, loading, unloading, and staging of equipment and supplies.
• Operate basic hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment under supervision.
• Support confined space, tank, and compartment entry preparations as directed.
• Assist with fire watch, hole watch, and safety-related duties when assigned.
• Move materials through vessels, dry docks, shops, and shipyard facilities.
• Follow established shipyard safety procedures, OSHA regulations, and customer requirements.
• Work aboard ships, in dry docks, industrial facilities, confined spaces, elevated areas, and outdoor environments.
• Perform general labor and support duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous shipyard, industrial, construction, manufacturing, warehouse, or general labor experience preferred.
• Ability to work safely in physically demanding environments.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment throughout the workday.
• Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and industrial equipment.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Reliable transportation and dependable attendance.
• Ability to work overtime, weekends, and varying shifts as required.
• Knowledge of OSHA safety practices and industrial work environments.
• Candidates who currently hold an active Security Clearance or have previous experience working in secure shipyard, military, government, or defense-contractor environments are highly preferred.
• TWIC card, DBIDS eligibility, OSHA 10, OSHA 30, or related certifications are a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, kneel, crouch, bend, and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to work in confined spaces, aboard vessels, and in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, safety glasses, respirators, gloves, and hearing protection.

Tidewater Staffing is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes qualified candidates seeking opportunities within the Hampton Roads maritime and industrial workforce.