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Posted August 17, 2026

3rd Class Shipfitter - Steel America (Job ID: 1461)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.
Norfolk, VA, United States Full Time
Reference: Colonna's Shipyard, Inc._8a78839e9fd3ba7b01a000383b575f8a

3rd Class Shipfitter - Steel America

Purpose:

As a Shipfitter at Steel America, a business unit of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will assist in the fabrication, assembly, and installation of structural components and systems aboard ships, within shipyard facilities, and in heavy industrial environments. This role involves working with steel and other metals to build and repair ship sections, following blueprints, and ensuring structural integrity. under the guidance of senior shipfitters or supervisors.

The position is located onsite in Norfolk, VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel.

Job Description:
  • Assist in cutting and fabricating metal components using various tools and machinery, including saws and shears.
  • Support in assembling and installing structural components such as bulkheads, frames, and decks, ensuring proper alignment and fit according to project specifications.
  • Read and interpret basic blueprints, technical drawings, and work instructions.
  • Learn to fit and tack weld metal components before final welding.
  • Help with cutting metal using torches, saws, shears, and other cutting tools.
  • Learn to operate bending and shaping equipment to form metal components.
  • Assist welders by preparing materials, fitting components, and ensuring proper alignment.
  • Work effectively as part of a team, supporting senior technicians and coordinating with other trades to ensure timely project completion.


Qualifications:
  • Must have at least 1 year of experience shipfitting, in a marine or shipyard environment.
  • Must demonstrate basic knowledge of cutting, shaping, and assembling metal components.
  • Must be able to lift heavy materials, work at heights, and operate in confined spaces.


Preferred Skills/Qualifications:
  • Previous technical training highly preferred.
  • Relevant certifications in shipfitting, welding, or related fields are preferred.


Travel Requirements:
  • Minimal Travel; 10% or less.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • May ride ships at sea for extended periods
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
  • Frequent use of respirator.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.


Respect, Pride, Truth, Family - These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Pay Range: $20.31 - $25.69

Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate's relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees' best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO).

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