WELDER/STRUCTURAL TRAINEE - COMPLETE 3 WEEKS OF FREE TRADES TRAINING

Welder/Structural Trainee

This position is for job seekers with no trades experience willing to complete three weeks of unpaid training in the Welder trade. Newport News Shipbuilding has partnered with the Virginia Ship Repair Association, local Virginia community colleges and maritime training facilities, to offer Marine Trades Training (MTT) programs for individuals interested in learning a trade and working full-time for NNS.

As a welder, you will begin your career by qualifying though the shipyard's start-of-the-art welding school. Upon completion, you will use a variety of welding filler metals and processes to perform structural and pipe welds throughout all phases of ship construction. Welders are responsible for tack, fillet, and full penetration welding on steel foundations, as well as structural and pipe joints for aircraft carriers and submarines.

Welders will employ various welding processes including SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding), FCAW (Flux Cored Arc Welding), GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding), and GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding), and perform welding in all positions using both manual and mechanized techniques. All work will meet stringent nondestructive testing requirements, including visual inspection, ultrasonic inspection, and radiographic inspection. Additionally, welders will receive further training in certified visual inspection, fire watch protocols, carbon arcing, and troubleshooting minor welding equipment issues.

Working at Newport News Shipbuilding often involves performing tasks in various weather conditions, at extreme heights on scaffolding, ladders, or elevated platforms and in small, confined spaces such as tanks, compartments, or voids in a ship. These environments require a strong focus on safety, precision, and adaptability, as well as physical agility and comfort working in challenging conditions.

Must have: Must be able to pass a 3-week (UNPAID) program (120 hours), 7:00am 3:30pm (Monday Friday). Must be able to take measurements or be willing to learn. Must be willing to undergo a background investigation and drug screen. Must be able to pass physical agility test. Must be able to kneel, squat, crawl, bend, stoop, and climb on a daily basis. Must be able to lift at least 40 pounds. Must be able to perform overhead work. Must be able to work overtime as needed. Must be able to be clean shaven to wear a respirator. Must be able to perform work outdoors, year-round, in all weather conditions. Must be able to work at extreme heights. Must be able to work in small, tight, confined spaces. Must be willing to work any shift.

Nice to have: High school graduate or equivalent preferred.