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Structural Fitter Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

SHIPFITTERS

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

New

$42K - $74K/yr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

SHIPFITTERS

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$42K - $74K/yr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

SHIPFITTERS

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

New

SHIPFITTERS

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

New

SHIPFITTERS

Carrollton, VA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

New

SHIPFITTERS

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

SHIPFITTERS

Hampton, VA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

New

SHIPFITTERS

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

New

SHIPFITTERS

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

SHIPFITTERS

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

New

SHIPFITTERS

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$42K - $74K/yr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

SHIPFITTERS

Hampton, VA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

New

$18 - $26/hr

Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. This position ...

Work with steel I‐beams and other structural materials * Perform welding and fitting of carbon steel * Utilize Flux Core or Dual Shield welding processes * Contribute to structural welding projects ...

Showing results 21-40

Structural Fitter information

See Virginia salary details

$15

$23

$31

How much do structural fitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural fitter in Virginia is $23.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a structural fitter?

A structural fitter is a metal worker who produces building materials for construction projects, such as for tall buildings and container ships. Your duties and responsibilities include the layout and assembly of parts that make up a structure, and you may weld pieces or use other tools, such as jack bars, turnbuckles, pry bars, hammers, or grinders to ensure that the materials align perfectly. Sometimes you move the parts manually while for larger jobs you use cranes or other equipment to move pieces into place.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a structural fitter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Structural Fitter, you need proficiency in blueprint reading, metal fabrication, welding, and a solid understanding of structural assembly, usually supported by a technical diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with industrial tools such as grinders, measuring devices, and welding machines, as well as relevant safety certifications, is vital. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective problem-solving are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure precise construction, adherence to safety standards, and efficient project completion in demanding industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by structural fitters on large construction projects?

Structural Fitters working on large construction projects often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex blueprints, coordinating with other trades to prevent scheduling conflicts, and ensuring precise alignment and fitting of structural components. The role can also involve working at heights or in confined spaces, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols. Effective communication with supervisors, welders, and crane operators is essential to successfully assemble and secure structural frameworks within project timelines.

What is the difference between Structural Fitter vs Mechanical Fitter?

AspectStructural FitterMechanical Fitter
CertificationsTrade certificates in steelwork, welding, and fabricationTrade certificates in mechanical systems, maintenance, and fitting
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, steel plants, fabrication workshopsManufacturing plants, maintenance workshops, industrial facilities
Industry UsageConstruction, steel fabrication, miningManufacturing, maintenance, industrial equipment

Both Structural Fitters and Mechanical Fitters require trade certifications and work in industrial environments. Structural Fitters focus on steel structures, welding, and fabrication, primarily in construction and steel industries. Mechanical Fitters specialize in assembling and maintaining mechanical systems and equipment in manufacturing and industrial settings. While their skills overlap, their specific tasks and industry focus differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Fitter jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Structural Fitter jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Structural Fitter jobs in Virginia?

For Structural Fitter jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Structural Fitter jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Structural Fitter jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Structural Fitter jobs in VA?

For Structural Fitter jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Structural Fitter job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 4% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,299 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

SHIPFITTERS

Portsmouth, VA

Tidewater Staffing
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Shipfitter – Shipyard / Marine Trades

Location: Hampton Roads, Virginia

Industry: Shipbuilding, Ship Repair, Naval and Commercial Marine Construction

About the Role

Tidewater Staffing is seeking experienced Shipfitters to support naval and commercial vessel construction, maintenance, and repair projects throughout Hampton Roads. Shipfitters are responsible for laying out, fabricating, fitting, aligning, and installing structural components and foundations used aboard ships, submarines, and other marine vessels.

This position is ideal for skilled trades professionals with experience interpreting shipyard drawings, performing structural fit-up, and preparing assemblies for welding in fast-paced shipyard environments.

Key Responsibilities
  • Read and interpret shipyard blueprints, drawings, sketches, work packages, and technical specifications.
  • Lay out, fabricate, fit, and align structural steel and aluminum components using established shipyard procedures.
  • Cut, shape, bevel, grind, and prepare materials for welding and assembly operations.
  • Fit and tack structural components including bulkheads, decks, frames, foundations, brackets, hangers, and supports.
  • Install shipboard foundations, equipment supports, and structural assemblies according to specifications.
  • Use measuring tools, levels, squares, templates, and layout equipment to ensure dimensional accuracy.
  • Assist with positioning, aligning, and securing structural components using approved rigging and lifting methods.
  • Perform structural repairs, modifications, and replacement work aboard naval and commercial vessels.
  • Work safely in confined spaces, elevated work areas, dry docks, and aboard vessels under varying environmental conditions.
  • Follow all shipyard safety, quality assurance, and production requirements.
Requirements
  • 3+ years of experience as a Shipfitter, Structural Fitter, or Marine Structural Mechanic in a shipyard or industrial environment.
  • Ability to perform layout and fit-up from blueprints, drawings, and work packages with limited supervision.
  • Experience with burning, grinding, beveling, drilling, tapping, and structural fitting operations.
  • Proficient in using measuring tools, levels, squares, templates, and cutting equipment.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in confined spaces, at heights, and aboard vessels.
  • Strong understanding of shipyard safety procedures and quality standards.
  • Must be able to pass required pre-employment screenings.
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain DBIDS access and possess or be able to obtain a TWIC card.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience performing structural repairs and modifications aboard U.S. Navy vessels, submarines, or commercial vessels.
  • Experience installing shipboard foundations, resilient mounts, hangers, and equipment support systems.
  • Familiarity with NAVSEA standards, ship repair specifications, and marine construction practices.
  • OSHA 10, Fire Watch, Confined Space, or related shipyard certifications.
  • Ability to perform tack welding and minor welding operations.
  • Prior experience at major shipyards such as HII Newport News, BAE Systems, NASSCO, Colonna's Shipyard, or similar facilities.
  • Spanish-English bilingual communication skills.
Why Tidewater Staffing?
  • Competitive pay with overtime opportunities.
  • Weekly direct deposit.
  • Medical, dental, and supplemental benefits available.
  • Long-term shipyard projects with opportunities for advancement.
  • Safety-focused culture with training and PPE support.
  • Opportunities supporting critical naval and maritime programs that help keep America's fleet mission-ready.

Tidewater Staffing logo

About Tidewater Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.” Our deep industry experience and established local presence allow us to maintain a consistent, updated, and expansive network of skilled candidates, and our proprietary digital onboarding process. When you partner with Tidewater Staffing, you get employees who are trained, screened, supplied, and access to our proprietary digital onboarding process.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Virginia Beach, VA, US

Year founded

1992