SHIPFITTERS

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Shipfitter – Shipyard / Marine Trades

Location: Hampton Roads, Virginia

Industry: Shipbuilding, Ship Repair, Industrial Marine Construction.

About the Role

We are seeking skilled and motivated Shipfitters to join our team supporting shipbuilding and repair operations. The Shipfitter plays a vital role in the fabrication, layout, and installation of structural components for vessels and other marine structures.

This position is ideal for candidates with experience reading blueprints, working with steel and aluminum plate, and performing precise fitting and alignment to support welding and assembly operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lay out and fabricate metal structures using blueprints, sketches, and specifications .
• Cut, shape, align, and fit metal plates and structural parts such as bulkheads, decks, frames, and foundations.
• Prepare materials for welding by beveling, grinding, and cleaning edges.
• Fit and tack weld parts together in preparation for final welding.
• Use measuring tools, straight edges, squares, and levels to ensure proper alignment.
• Install foundations, brackets, bulkheads, and other ship components according to shipyard standards.
• Operate hand and power tools , torches, and tack welding equipment safely and efficiently.
• Work in confined spaces, elevated areas, and onboard ships under varying conditions.
• Follow strict safety and quality control procedures to maintain compliance with shipyard standards.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience as a Shipfitter or Structural Fitter (marine, industrial, or shipyard setting preferred)
• Ability to read and interpret ship blueprints, drawings, and technical documents
• Proficient in layout, burning, grinding, and fitting operations
• Skilled in using measuring tools, levels, squares, and cutting torches
• Must be able to pass drug screen and background check
• Physically capable of lifting 50 lbs and working in confined or elevated spaces
• Strong commitment to safety, precision, and teamwork

Preferred Skills

• Knowledge of aluminum and steel fabrication
• Ability to perform minor welding or tack welding
• OSHA 10, Firewatch, and Confined Space certifications  
• Prior experience at HII, BAE, or similar shipyards  
• Spanish-English bilingual communication skills 

Why Join Us

• Competitive pay and overtime opportunities
• Weekly direct deposit and benefits including health and dental
• Long-term projects with growth and advancement potential
• Comprehensive safety training and PPE provided

Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.”

Company Description

Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.”