Tank Cleaner

Job Description:

This position is responsible for cleaning, maintaining, and preparing tanks, voids, void spaces, bilges, and confined shipboard compartments within a shipyard environment. Shipyard Tank Cleaners perform industrial cleaning duties in support of ship repair, maintenance, and overhaul operations while following strict safety and environmental procedures.

Responsibilities include:

• Clean and prepare shipboard tanks, voids, bilges, and confined spaces for inspection, maintenance, and repair.
• Remove sludge, residue, debris, scale, and other contaminants from marine compartments.
• Use industrial cleaning tools, pumps, vacuums, pressure washers, and manual cleaning equipment.
• Assist with confined space entry operations under strict safety supervision.
• Follow all hot work preparation and tank entry procedures as required.
• Set up ventilation, lighting, and safety equipment in confined or restricted spaces.
• Ensure proper disposal of waste materials in accordance with environmental and shipyard regulations.
• Perform standby watch duties for confined space entrants when required.
• Maintain cleanliness of work areas and equipment before, during, and after operations.
• Follow all safety protocols including confined space entry, respiratory protection, lockout/tagout, and PPE requirements.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Work aboard vessels, in dry docks, and within active shipyard environments.

Qualifications:

• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to pass a clean background check and meet access requirements for shipyard and naval installations (DBIDS clearance required).
• Previous industrial cleaning, shipyard, construction, or labor experience preferred.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety and strict adherence to procedures.
• Ability to follow instructions and work in a team environment.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic required.
• Willingness to work in physically demanding and hazardous environments.
• Experience with confined space entry or industrial cleaning is a plus but not required.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in confined spaces, tanks, and restricted access areas for extended periods.
• Ability to climb ladders, kneel, bend, and work in awkward positions.
• Must be able to wear required PPE, including but not limited to respirators, hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, protective suits, and hearing protection.
• Ability to work in wet, dirty, and industrial environments aboard vessels and in shipyards.
• Must be physically capable of performing labor-intensive cleaning tasks.

Work Schedule & Hours:

• Full-time position averaging 48–56 hours per week, including some weekends.
• Overtime and extended hours may be required based on project needs.
• Flexibility and reliability are essential.

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance
• Structured training and safety certification opportunities
• Advancement opportunities within shipyard industrial services
• Supportive, safety-focused work environment with long-term stability

Ability to Commute:

• Norfolk, VA (Required)
• Portsmouth, VA (Required)

Work Location:

In person

Titan Talent Development is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.