Pipefitter & Welder

Chesapeake Shipbuilding is seeking a skilled Pipefitter/Welder to join our shipbuilding team. This position is responsible for performing welding, fitting, fabrication, and testing work associated with the construction of passenger cruise vessels. The ideal candidate has experience with FCAW, SMAW, and TIG welding processes, can read blueprints and drawings, and is committed to maintaining a safe, productive work environment.  

Why Should You Apply?

• Competitive Pay: $25.00 to $35.00 per hour, based on experience and 6G weld test 
• $1,000 Sign-On Bonus: Paid in two installments after 60 and 180 days of continuous employment for eligible full-time positions. 
• Employee Referral Bonus: Earn $500 for each referred candidate who is hired. 
• Comprehensive Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage available for employees and their families. Full-time employees are eligible beginning the first day of the month following their start date. 
• Company-Paid Insurance: $20,000 AD&D life insurance and short-term disability coverage provided at no cost to full-time employees. 
• Health Savings Account (HSA): Available for eligible employees.  
• 401(k) with 5% Company Match: Available for full-time and part-time employees. 
• Paid Holidays: Six company-paid holidays each year. 
• Paid Sick and Vacation: 
  • 80 hours during your first year 
  • 96 hours after 1 year 
  • 144 hours after 5 years 
  • 168 hours after 10 years 
• Career Growth Opportunities: Advance within your department or explore opportunities across the shipyard while working with a supportive and empowered team. 
• Overtime Opportunities: Available for hours worked beyond 40 per week.

ABOUT THE JOB: This opportunity is a full-time and benefits-eligible position.

REPORTS TO: Pipe Supervisor/On-Site Foreman/Shipyard Superintendent

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: Safely and efficiently perform welding labor to complete construction associated with building cruise ships. Have an aggressive work ethic with a focus on production.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & TASKS:

• Welding¼" to 1" steel using FCAW and SMAW processes in 3G, 4G, and 6G positions.
• Tig welding of stainless steel and aluminum.
• Plasma cutting and oxy-propane cutting.
• Performing weld tests including soap and air, hydrostatic pressure testing tanks, and dye penetrant.
• Assemble 40' x 10' steel plates, angles, and flange plates.
• Complete layouts using drawings and/or templates.
• Tack welding with stick and semi-automatic welding equipment (preferred).
• Practice proper safety always procedures.
• Follow instructions from foreman/supervisors on site and keep the job site clean.
• Operate in isolation within the skeleton of ships, wearing heavy protective gear and carrying equipment weighing 40 to 50 lbs.
• All other duties as assigned based on operational needs.

KNOWLEDGE:

• Knowledge and skills in FCAW, SMAW, Plasma cutting, and oxy-propane cutting. (TIG a plus)
• Knowledge of weld tests, including soap and air, hydrostatic pressure testing tanks, and dye penetrants.
• Ability to complete layouts using drawings and/or templates.
• Knowledge of proper safety practices.
• Knowledge of shop and field fabrication, assembly sequencing, and fitting.
• Ability to read and understanding blueprints, sketches, and templates.
• Familiar with industry codes and regulations.
• Knowledge of safe use of tools and equipment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• All types of physical movement are required for this position to successfully perform the essential functions.
• Ability to use upper and lower extremities.
• Ability to work outside in heat, inclement weather, and cold.
• Ability to crawl, kneel, crouch, climb, and bend around and under equipment, on ladders up to 24' at heights up to 70', stairs, scaffolds, through small accesses, enter inside of tanks, and confined spaces, through hatches, and manholes throughout much of the work shift.
• Occasionally lift/move up to 100 pounds.
• Ability to work over bodies of water.
• Ability to traverse uneven terrain, including loose pack gravel.

MENTAL REQUIREMENTS: Normal level of visual acuity needed. Must be able to understand and follow directions. Normal hearing level needed. Hand-eye coordination required.

HAZARDS: Weather, fumes, high noise levels, moving mechanical parts, equipment, and vibration.

SHIFT:

• Monday – Friday
• Day Shift: 6:00am – 2:30pm

Overtime and Weekend required based on business needs