Job Ref: # 3449806
Date Posted: 2/27/2026
Location: Chesapeake, VA
Salary (USD): $28 - $32
Description
Shipfitter III
Location: Chesapeake, VA
Employment Type: Full-Time
About the Role
The Shipfitter III is a highly skilled trades position responsible for repairing, modifying, installing, and dismantling shipboard hulls, bulkheads, and decks. This role involves fabricating complex fixtures and jigs, working in confined spaces or overhead structures, and performing physically demanding tasks. The position requires strict adherence to safety, quality standards, and technical procedures, with frequent travel and overtime. The Shipfitter III also mentors junior craftsmen and ensures work meets MILSPEC and SUBSAFE requirements.
What You’ll Do
- Repair, modify, install, and dismantle shipboard hulls, bulkheads, and decks.
- Fabricate and install components as directed by technical work documents.
- Set up, align, and operate various hand and portable tools, including plasma cutting machines and oxy/fuel torches.
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and MILSPEC/SUBSAFE standards.
- Mentor and guide junior craftsmen in trade practices.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Must-Have Skills and Experience
- Hands-on shipfitting experience with the ability to work independently.
- Welding qualifications (GTAW/SMAW).
- Knowledge of shipboard plate systems (hull, deck, bulkhead) and installation/repair practices.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
- SUBSAFE qualification and Deep Submergence Systems (SOC MCD A, B, C) experience.
- Ability to obtain Secret/Confidential clearance and government base access.
- Experience in alignment, fabrication, and use of trade-specific hand and portable tools.
Nice-to-Have Skills
- Experience designing and fabricating complex fixtures and jigs.
- Prior mentoring or leadership of junior craftsmen.
- Military or civilian experience in a shipyard or repair department.
Who You Are
- Independent, highly skilled, and safety-conscious.
- Physically capable of heavy lifting, working in elevated areas, or confined spaces.
- Detail-oriented with strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Flexible and willing to work frequent overtime and travel as needed.
Additional Details
- Work is primarily indoors in shop environments but may include exposure to heat, cold, noise, dust, fumes, and sparks.
- Job tasks often require close physical proximity to others and working in non-controlled environmental conditions.
- Must maintain high standards of housekeeping, safety, and quality at all times.
Job Posting
