Shipyard Mechanic

Job Title: 1st Class Outside Machinist
Will be pay more based on high qualifications $30-40/hr. + per diem.
Job Description
This role focuses on the overhaul, repair, and maintenance of pumps, motors, valves, and other auxiliary equipment in a shipyard environment, with a strong emphasis on submarine systems. The position requires an active Secret security clearance or one held within the last 24 months, as well as specific experience with submarine torpedo tubes or sail systems. You will work at naval shipyard facilities in Virginia, performing journeyman-level outside machinist duties that support critical marine and submarine operations.
Responsibilities

• Overhaul, repair, and maintain pumps, motors, valves, and other auxiliary marine equipment in accordance with technical specifications and shipyard standards.
• Perform open, inspect, and repair work on components of marine seawater, hydraulic, and diesel systems, ensuring proper function and reliability.
• Conduct repair and restoration work on propulsion shafts, shaft couplings, and vibration reducers to support safe and efficient vessel operations.
• Remove, inspect, and repair fairwater, stern plane, and steering and diving system components on submarines and other marine vessels.
• Remove, inspect, and repair various components of submarine sail systems, including periscopes, masts, and antennas.
• Repair and overhaul ship's weapons and ordnance systems, including torpedo tubes, launchers, and weapons handling equipment.
• Install and repair foundations for operating machinery and principal structures or components to maintain alignment and structural integrity.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues on marine and submarine systems, identifying root causes and implementing effective repairs.
• Work safely in a shipyard environment while following all applicable safety procedures, regulations, and security requirements.
• Use and maintain personal tools of the trade to perform precision mechanical and machining tasks.
• Collaborate with other trades and team members to complete assigned work scopes efficiently and to quality standards.
• Document work performed as required by shipyard procedures, technical work documents, and quality assurance processes.

Essential Skills

• Active Secret security clearance or a Secret clearance held within the last 24 months.
• Demonstrated experience as a 1st Class or journeyman-level outside machinist in a marine or shipyard environment.
• Specific hands-on experience working with submarine torpedo tubes or submarine sail systems.
• Proficiency in overhauling and repairing pumps, motors, valves, and auxiliary marine equipment.
• Experience working on marine seawater, hydraulic, and diesel systems, including inspection and repair.
• Mechanical troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve issues on complex marine systems.
• Ability to read, interpret, and work from technical drawings, work packages, and written procedures.
• Capability to install, align, and repair foundations and principal machinery components.
• Ability to supply and effectively use personal tools of the trade for outside machinist work.
• Ability to work safely in a shipyard environment and adhere to all safety and security protocols.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience as a Machinist Mate, Engineman, Gas Turbine Mechanic, or Gunners Mate with relevant mechanical and marine experience.
• Experience working on propulsion shafts, shaft couplings, and vibration reducers.
• Experience with fairwater, stern plane, and steering and diving system components on submarines.
• Familiarity with submarine sail components, including periscopes, masts, and antennas.
• Experience with ship weapons and ordnance systems such as torpedo tubes, launchers, and weapons handling equipment.
• Prior work in a naval shipyard or similar marine industrial environment.
• Comfort working under formal quality assurance and security requirements.
• No specific licenses or certifications are required for this position.

Why Work Here?
You will contribute directly to critical naval and marine operations in a highly skilled trade environment, working on complex and mission-essential systems. The role offers the opportunity to deepen your experience with specialized submarine and shipboard equipment while working alongside experienced professionals. There is strong potential for long-term engagement, with work expected to continue beyond the initial period and the possibility of transitioning to a direct position. The organization emphasizes safety, professional standards, and steady, hands-on work that allows you to see the tangible impact of your skills.
Work Environment
Work takes place in an active shipyard environment at naval facilities in Virginia. You will work in and around ships and submarines, including confined spaces, industrial areas, and pierside locations, with exposure to noise, machinery, and varying weather conditions. The role requires the use of personal protective equipment, including steel-toed shoes and other trade-specific PPE provided by the employee, while hard hats, safety glasses, and ear protection are provided on site. The position involves hands-on mechanical work using personal tools of the trade, and may require standing, climbing, bending, and lifting as part of daily tasks.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Norfolk, VA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $28.00/hr.
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 Norfolk,VA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 19, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.


Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.


The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.