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Shipfitter Helper Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

LEAD Staffing

Shipfitter

Norfolk, VA

$20 - $26.50/hr

Shipfitter LEAD Staffing | Hampton Roads, VA Location: Norfolk, VA Schedule: Full-Time | Contract ... Apply today and let us help you find the perfect fit.

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY HEADQUARTERS

SHIPFITTER

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Summary You will serve as a SHIPFITTER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of ... Learn more about this agency Duties Help * You will install and fit parts on ships and locate ...

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Shipfitter Helper information

What are some common challenges shipfitter helpers face during ship construction or repair projects?

Shipfitter Helpers often encounter challenges related to working in confined spaces and navigating the physically demanding tasks of lifting, aligning, and securing heavy metal parts. Adhering to strict safety protocols is essential, as the work environment can involve hazards like sharp edges, welding fumes, and loud noises. Teamwork is crucial, as Shipfitter Helpers regularly coordinate with welders, fitters, and supervisors to ensure accuracy and maintain project timelines. Developing strong communication and adaptability skills can help overcome these challenges and contribute to the smooth progress of shipbuilding projects.

What is the difference between Shipfitter Helper vs Shipfitter?

AspectShipfitter HelperShipfitter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic apprenticeship or on-the-job trainingAdditional certifications or apprenticeships, more experience required
Work EnvironmentAssists with shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance in shipyards or marine facilitiesPerforms more complex fitting, assembly, and installation tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesSupports shipfitters, handles basic tasks like holding, cleaning, and material prepPerforms precise fitting, welding, and assembly of ship components

The main difference between a Shipfitter Helper and a Shipfitter is experience and responsibility level. Helpers assist with basic tasks and support shipfitters, while shipfitters perform more skilled fitting and assembly work. Both roles are essential in shipbuilding and repair, with helpers often serving as entry-level positions to gain experience in the industry.

How hard is it to be a shipfitter helper?

Being a shipfitter helper involves physically demanding work, often requiring manual labor, working in confined or outdoor environments, and following safety protocols. The role typically requires basic skills in metalworking, reading blueprints, and using hand tools, with on-the-job training provided. Physical fitness and attention to safety are important for success in this position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a shipfitter helper?

To thrive as a Shipfitter Helper, you need a basic understanding of metalworking, blueprint reading, and general construction safety, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, measuring instruments, and sometimes OSHA safety certifications are typically expected. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn make someone stand out in this position. These skills are essential to ensure precise fabrication, safe work practices, and effective support of shipbuilding operations.

What is a shipfitter helper?

Shipfitter Helpers assist shipfitters in the construction, repair, and maintenance of ships and other marine vessels. Their duties typically include preparing materials, holding or positioning metal parts, cleaning work areas, and operating basic tools under supervision. Shipfitter Helpers play a crucial role in ensuring that fabrication and assembly work proceeds smoothly and safely. This entry-level position provides valuable hands-on experience in the shipbuilding industry and can lead to more advanced roles with additional training.
What are the most commonly searched types of Shipfitter jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Shipfitter jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Shipfitter Helper jobs in Virginia? For Shipfitter Helper jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Shipfitter Helper jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Shipfitter Helper jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Shipfitter Helper jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Shipfitter Helper job openings:
Shipfitter Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shipfitter Helper job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Shipfitter Helper - Steel America (Job ID: 1446)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Norfolk, VA

$17.18 - $19.81/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Shipfitter Helper – Steel America
Purpose:
As a Shipfitter at Steel America, a business unit of Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc., you will assist in the fabrication, assembly, and installation of structural components and systems aboard ships, within shipyard facilities, and in heavy industrial environments. This role involves working with steel and other metals to build and repair ship sections, following blueprints, and ensuring structural integrity. under the guidance of senior shipfitters or supervisors.
Job Description:
  • Assist in cutting and fabricating metal components using various tools and machinery, including burning torches, saws and shears.
  • Interpret and lay out blueprints, check and fit materials, tack weld of small assemblies, aluminum and steel foundations.
  • Assist shipfitters by preparing materials, fitting components, and ensuring proper alignment.
  • Assemble and install structural components such as bulkheads, frames, and decks, ensuring proper alignment and fit according to project specifications.
  • Help with cutting metal using torches, saws, shears, and other cutting tools.
  • Perform tack welding to secure parts in place prior to final welding.
  • Will be required to wear personal protective equipment hard hat, safety glasses, steel toe boots/shoes and, when necessary, respirator.
  • Instruct apprentices and fellow shipfitters with job assignments and overall mentoring.
  • Be able to perform duties with little to no supervision.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
  • Must have a Certificate of Welding from an accredited institution or least one (1) year of welding experience or at least 1 year of experience shipfitting, in a marine or shipyard environment.
  • Must have OSHA 10.
  • Must be able to work overtime and weekends as required.
  • Must be able to work effectively and efficiently with others.
  • Must have ability to enter and move through manholes to reach and work in internally confined spaces.
  • Must be a steady and reliable worker that maintains regular and consistent attendance.
  • Must be able to follow instructions.
Preferred Skills/Qualifications:
  • Recent completion of an accredited welding program through ATDM, NASCAR Institute, Tidewater Tech, TCC, or similar institution, resulting in flux-core (FCAW) welding certifications, highly preferred.
Travel Requirements:
  • Minimal Travel; 10% or less.
Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • May ride ships at sea for extended periods
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts amp; man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk amp; sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
  • Frequent use of respirator.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.
Respect, Pride, Truth, Family – These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Additionally, Colonna’s Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid disability insurances, 401k with match, legal services, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).

Pay Range: $17.18 - $19.81

Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate’s relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees’ best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO).

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