Sheet Metal Mechanic

Sheet Metal Mechanic

This role involves performing first-class sheet metal work in a shipyard environment, focusing on the installation and fabrication of foundations, ventilation systems, bulkheads, shipboard furniture, and other structural components. You will interpret complex drawings and blueprints, lay out and fabricate piece parts, and assemble high-quality sheet metal structures for marine and related applications.

Responsibilities

• Install foundations, ventilation systems, bulkheads, and shipboard furniture in accordance with detailed specifications and drawings.
• Perform sheet metal fabrication shop work, including cutting, forming, and assembling metal components for marine and related projects.
• Read and interpret complex ventilation assembly drawings, blueprints, and sketches, including weld symbols, material types, datum points, and reference lines.
• Use fractional and decimal measurements accurately with rulers and other measuring tools to lay out and verify dimensions.
• Lay out piece parts for fabrication and assembly, ensuring proper fit, alignment, and adherence to design requirements.
• Assemble sheet metal components and piece parts to meet quality standards and project specifications.
• Operate small hand tools such as electric drills, grinders, and rivet guns safely and efficiently.
• Use shop equipment including drill presses, press brakes, and related machinery to form and prepare sheet metal parts.
• Work effectively in a physically demanding shipyard environment, including standing, bending, lifting, and working in confined spaces as required.
• Follow OSHA regulations and safety procedures relevant to the shipbuilding industry to maintain a safe work area.
• Collaborate with other trades and team members on Navy vessels and in shop settings to complete assigned tasks on schedule.
• Adapt to different shifts and work locations within the shipyard as operational needs require.

Essential Skills

• At least three years of experience as a first-class Sheet Metal Worker in the installation of foundations, ventilation, bulkheads, shipboard furniture, and sheet metal fabrication shop work.
• Ability to comprehend complex ventilation assembly drawings, blueprints, and sketches, including weld symbols, material types, datum lines, and reference lines.
• Strong understanding of fractional and decimal dimensions and the ability to use a ruler and other measuring tools accurately.
• Ability to lay out piece parts for fabrication and assembly with precision and attention to detail.
• Ability to assemble sheet metal components in accordance with specifications while maintaining high quality standards.
• Experience working in a physically demanding environment, such as a shipyard or industrial setting.
• Familiarity with OSHA regulations related to the shipbuilding industry and safe work practices.
• Proficiency in using small hand tools, including electric drills, grinders, and rivet guns.
• Experience operating shop equipment such as drill presses and press brakes.
• Ability to work any shift, including first, second, and third shifts, as required by production schedules.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Marine sheet metal experience, particularly in shipbuilding, is preferred.
• Aircraft, industrial, or commercial sheet metal experience is acceptable and considered valuable.
• Experience with ventilation, bulkheads, foundations, shipboard furniture, and general sheet metal fabrication.
• Comfort working on Navy vessels and in shop environments.
• Ability to adapt to changing work conditions and tasks within a large shipyard setting.

Why Work Here?

You will work in a major shipyard that offers the opportunity to contribute to large-scale, high-impact projects in a specialized marine environment. The organization values safety, craftsmanship, and professional growth, providing exposure to advanced fabrication practices and complex shipbuilding operations. Non-local candidates residing at least 75 miles from Newport News, Virginia, may be eligible for a daily per diem benefit for each day worked, supporting travel and living expenses while on assignment.

Work Environment

The position is based in a large shipyard that extends for approximately five miles, located in Southeast Virginia. The climate is typically hot and humid during the summer and cooler during the winter, and work is performed both aboard Navy vessels and in shop areas. The environment is industrial and physically demanding, with regular use of hand tools, drill presses, press brakes, and other fabrication equipment. Candidates must be able to work any of three shifts: first shift from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., second shift from 3:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., and third shift from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Overtime may be available but is not guaranteed, and employees should expect to follow all shipyard safety protocols and procedures while on site.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Virginia Beach, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $32.00 - $32.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Virginia Beach, VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 6, 2026.