Shop Pipefitter

Pipefitter

Date: Mar 28, 2026

Location: San Diego, CA, US, 92113

Company: National Steel and Shipbuilding Com

Job Summary: Installs and maintains ships' piping systems such as steam, heat and power, hot water, hydraulic, air pressure, and oil lines following blueprints, layouts and work orders and using hand tools and shop machines. Plans layout of pipe sections, cuts and bores holes in bulkheads and decks for installation of pipes. Operates shop machines to cut and thread pipe and pipe fittings, including valves, traps and thermostats. Bends pipe to specified shape bolts on pipe-bending fixtures, bolts or welds brackets to support pipe systems. Connects pipes to fixtures such as heat exchangers, laundry and galley equipment, pumps, tanks and other ship equipment. Repairs, packs and adjusts valves. Tests installed systems for leaks and to ensure that system meets specifications. Performs other related tasks as assigned, some of which may become essential to the position.

Qualification Standards: High school or equivalent education preferred, Two years on the job training at NASSCO in pipefitting or minimum three years of experience is required. Knowledge of basic marine piping systems, blueprint readings, silver-brazing procedures and military specifications. Must be able to perform marine pipefitting, bending, burning, and read blueprints and follow exact tolerances. Must be able to work at heights, in confined spaces, and on any assigned shift. Must comprehend written and verbal instructions (in English). Must be able to hear warning signals, read and comprehend safety instructions, regulations and warnings.

Essential Job Tasks: Read and understand blueprints and spool sheets for application to assign task Set up work area with appropriate tools and materials in shop or on board ship. Cut, bend, weld, braze, grind, and/or burn pipes to fit and connect for ship board installation. Install and/or remove pipe. Inspect and tag out piping systems; air tests tanks/voids; hydrostatically test the piping system and equipment. Other duties as may be assigned relevant to the trade.

Materials, Tools Equipment, Work Aids: Blueprints, drawings, pipefitter handbook, measuring tools, hand tools, welding tools and leads, sawzalls, emery cloth, pipes, fire bottle, mirror, glues, extension cords, chain falls, come along, blanks, tags, pens, hydro pump, sketch pad, painting, masking, high reaching, cleaning equipment, and solvents, and personal protective equipment.

Physical/Mental Involvement: Lifting up to 50 lbs. Standing, balancing, walking, climbing ladders or equipment, reaching above shoulder or out in front, manual dexterity, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, seeing, hearing and occasionally lowering self into confined spaces, crawling through small openings and working in reclined positions, as needed. Reading and interpreting specifications and blueprints; perceiving details and making visual comparisons; using calculator to solve standard formulas; measuring and verifying task requirements. Works in all areas of the shipyard and on board ships. Hearing warning signals and reading and comprehending safety instructions. Must be able to maintain general safety awareness and avoid hazards commonly present in employee's work area.

PAY SCALE: $33.62 - $36.97

General Dynamics NASSCO also provides a variety of benefits including medical & dental insurance coverage, 401(k) retirement savings plan, flexible spending accounts/HSAs, life and disability insurance, company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), wellness coaching, and an onsite health services.

General Dynamics NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity 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 basis protected by local, state, or federal law.