Welder - Electric Department

Chesapeake Shipbuilding is seeking a skilled and motivated Welder to support our Electrical Department in the construction and repair of commercial vessels. This position is responsible for fabricating, fitting, and welding structural components, equipment foundations, cable tray supports, and other shipboard installations in accordance with engineering drawings, quality standards, and safety requirements. The ideal candidate will have experience with SMAW and FCAW welding processes, the ability to interpret technical drawings, and a commitment to producing high-quality workmanship in a fast-paced shipyard environment.

Why Should You Apply?

• Competitive Pay:  $21.00/hr - $30.00/hr depending on experience and 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: Electric Supervisor/On-Site Foreman/Shipyard Superintendent

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:  Support the Electrical Department by welding, fabricating, modifying, installing, and repairing metal structures, supports, foundations, penetrations, and mounting systems required for shipboard electrical equipment and cable routing systems.  

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & TASKS:

• Read, interpret, and work from engineering drawings, blueprints, sketches, work packages, and technical specifications. 
• Measure, mark, and lay out material for cutting, fitting, and fabrication operations. 
• Set up and operate welding equipment utilizing Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) processes. 
• Operate hand tools, power tools, grinders, cutting torches, and other fabrication equipment safely and effectively. 
• Fabricate, assemble, and install metal components in both shop and field environments. 
• Perform tack welding, fitting, alignment, and final welding of structural and non-structural components. 
• Grind, clean, and finish welds and fabricated assemblies to required quality standards. 
• Verify dimensions, alignment, and fit-up prior to and after welding operations. 
• Assist with installation and modification of electrical equipment foundations, cable tray systems, supports, and related hardware. 
• Inspect completed work to ensure compliance with drawings, specifications, and quality requirements. 
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with housekeeping and safety standards. 
• Comply with all company policies, shipyard procedures, and federal, state, and local safety regulations. 
• Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and required training programs. 
• Work effectively as part of a team while maintaining the ability to perform assigned tasks independently. 
• Perform all other duties as assigned based on operational requirements. 

KNOWLEDGE:

• Ability to set up, operate, and maintain welding machines and related equipment for SMAW and FCAW welding processes. 
• Knowledge of shipyard fabrication, fitting, assembly sequencing, and installation practices. 
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, sketches, templates, and technical documentation. 
• Understanding of welding symbols and fabrication standards. 
• Familiarity with applicable industry standards, regulatory requirements, and shipbuilding practices. 
• Knowledge of proper material handling techniques and safe rigging practices. 
• Proficiency in the safe use of hand tools, power tools, grinders, cutting equipment, and measuring devices. 
• Ability to identify weld defects and perform corrective actions when required. 
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality workmanship. 
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and effectively as a member of a production team. 
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and other trades. 

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.
• Ability to work over bodies of water.
• Ability to traverse uneven terrain, including loose pack gravel. 
• Operate in isolation within the skeleton of ships, wearing heavy protective gear and carrying equipment weighing up to 75lbs.

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.

SHIFTS:

• Monday – Friday: 40 - 45+ hours per week
• Day Shift: 6:00am – 2:30pm

· Overtime and Weekend required based on business needs