Skilled Shipbuilder / Structural Welder (Shipyard)

Location: East Coast

Employment Type: Full-Time

Job Summary We are seeking experienced and safety-conscious Skilled Shipbuilders (Structural Welders) to join our shipyard team. In this hands-on role, you will perform high-quality welding, fitting, and fabrication on steel components for the construction, repair, and maintenance of commercial vessels, naval ships, barges, or other maritime structures. The position requires proven expertise in FCAW and SMAW welding processes, along with the ability to work in challenging shipyard environments including confined spaces, heights, and all welding positions.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform structural welding using FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding) and SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding / Stick) processes on hull plating, bulkheads, decks, foundations, frames, and other heavy steel components.
• Execute tack welding, fillet welds, full penetration welds, and multi-pass welds in flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions.
• Read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, work orders, and engineering drawings to determine weld specifications and sequences.
• Prepare materials by cutting, grinding, beveling, and fitting steel plates, beams, and structural members using plasma cutters, oxy-acetylene torches, grinders, and other tools.
• Align and fit components using hydraulic jacks, chain falls, wedges, and other rigging/alignment equipment.
• Inspect welds visually and prepare for non-destructive testing (NDT) as required; repair defects to meet classification society, ABS, USCG, or NAVSEA standards.
• Maintain a clean and safe work area; follow all shipyard safety protocols, including proper PPE usage, hot work procedures, and confined space entry rules.
• Collaborate with shipfitters, riggers, supervisors, and quality control teams to ensure projects meet deadlines and quality requirements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned in support of ship construction or repair.

Required Qualifications

• Experience must be documented on "Advanced Shipfitter Summary Sheet" prior to arrival at shipyard. 
• Minimum 3–5+ years of verifiable experience as a structural welder or shipyard welder, with demonstrated proficiency in FCAW and SMAW on heavy structural steel (shipyard, fabrication, or heavy industrial experience preferred).
• Ability to pass a company-administered welding certification test in FCAW and/or SMAW (typically in 3G/4G positions, including vertical downhill for FCAW and overhead/full penetration applications).
• Strong understanding of welding procedures, joint preparations, filler metals, and weld imperfections.
• Experience working from blueprints, sketches, and weld maps.
• Physical ability to perform demanding work: lift 50+ lbs, climb ladders/scaffolding, work at heights, in confined spaces, and in all weather conditions.
• Valid driver's license (preferred).
• Commitment to safety and quality workmanship.

Preferred Qualifications

• AWS certifications (e.g., AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel) or equivalent.
• Additional experience with GMAW, GTAW, or other processes.
• Prior shipyard, ship repair, or maritime fabrication experience.
• Knowledge of shipbuilding codes/standards (ABS, NAVSEA, MIL-STD, etc.).
• Forklift, overhead crane, or rigging certification.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly wage based on experience and certifications.
• Daily Per Diem for each worked day.
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Opportunities for overtime and career advancement in a growing shipbuilding/repair environment.
• Supportive team environment focused on safety and craftsmanship.

If you are a skilled welder with strong FCAW and SMAW experience and a passion for building and repairing vessels that navigate the seas, we encourage you to apply!

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