Sheet Metal Mechanic

Job Title: Sheet Metal Mechanic
Location: Connecticut
Hourly Rate: Based on Experience

About Us: The Sheet Metal Mechanic is responsible for the fabrication, installation, repair, and inspection of sheet metal components used in ship construction, overhaul, and repair. This role supports the production of naval, commercial, and specialty vessels by ensuring all HVAC, ventilation, ducting, and structural metal systems are built and installed to shipyard standards, engineering specifications, and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities
Fabrication & Assembly

• Read and interpret blueprints, isometrics, sketches, and naval drawings for ducting and shipboard ventilation systems.
• Measure, fabricate, and assemble sheet metal components using materials such as galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and copper-nickel.
• Utilize power shears, brakes, rolls, presses, plasma cutters, and hand tools to cut, form, bend, bead, and join metal.
• Build and fit HVAC ductwork, plenums, brackets, foundations, and other ventilation system components.

Installation

• Install HVAC and ventilation systems aboard ships, including main trunks, branch lines, diffusers, dampers, and access doors.
• Fit, align, and secure components using bolts, rivets, welds, threaded fasteners, clips, and brackets.
• Perform layout and routing aboard vessels in tight or confined spaces while maintaining proper clearances and system performance requirements.
• Coordinate installations with other trades (pipefitters, electricians, joiners, welders) to avoid conflicts and maintain schedule.

Repair & Maintenance

• Inspect and diagnose issues with existing ducting or sheet metal systems during ship repair, conversion, or overhaul periods.
• Remove, modify, and replace damaged or obsolete components while adhering to shipyard safety and QA procedures.
• Perform leak tests, airflow checks, and system verifications as required.

Quality & Compliance

• Operate according to ABS, NAVSEA, USCG, and shipyard-specific standards, ensuring all work meets specification and inspection requirements.
• Complete work packages, production reports, and material usage documentation.
• Follow strict QA/QC protocols, including weld inspections, dimensional checks, and system fit-ups.

Safety Responsibilities

• Comply with all shipyard safety procedures, lockout/tagout, confined space entry, fall protection, and hot-work requirements.
• Maintain clean, hazard-free workspaces aboard vessels, in shops, and on dry docks.
• Use appropriate PPE including respirators, eye protection, gloves, and hearing protection.

Qualifications
Required

• Proven experience as a sheet metal mechanic or fabricator, preferably in a shipyard or marine environment.
• Ability to read complex drawings, schematics, and fabrication blueprints.
• Proficiency with sheet metal tools, machines, and installation techniques.
• Physical ability to climb, kneel, crawl, and work in confined or elevated spaces.
• Strong understanding of trade math, measurements, and layout techniques.

Preferred

• Completion of a Sheet Metal or Shipfitter apprenticeship program.
• Experience with Navy vessel construction (e.g., LPD, DDG, CVN, SSN, LNG carriers).
• Knowledge of NAVSEA Standard Items and shipyard work package procedures.
• OSHA 10/30, Firewatch, or Confined Space certifications.

Work Environment

• Work performed aboard ships (new construction and repair), in industrial shops, on dry docks, and occasionally outdoors.
• Exposure to noise, heat, dust, metal fumes, and cramped environments.
• Schedule may include overtime, shift work, and weekend assignments based on project needs.

Typical Tools & Equipment Used

• Shears, brakes, rolls, presses
• Hand tools: snips, seamers, hammers, rivet guns
• Measuring instruments: tape measures, squares, calipers
• Portable power tools and pneumatic tools
• Welding and brazing equipment (depending on job level)

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
ARC Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected class.