Shipfitter The Shipfitter is responsible for the layout, fabrication, fitting, alignment, and assembly of structural steel components used in the construction of new vessels. Working from engineering drawings, blueprints, and work packages, the Shipfitter fabricates and installs structural members including bulkheads, decks, frames, foundations, and hull sections while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and productivity. This position requires the ability to interpret complex drawings, perform precise measurements, and safely use a variety of hand tools, power tools, and fabrication equipment in a fast-paced shipbuilding environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Read, interpret, and work from shipbuilding blueprints, engineering drawings, work instructions, and specifications. Lay out, measure, mark, fit, and assemble structural steel components for new vessel construction. Fabricate and install hull structures, bulkheads, decks, stiffeners, foundations, brackets, frames, girders, and other structural assemblies. Perform precision fitting using proper alignment techniques and tolerances. Operate oxy-fuel cutting equipment, plasma cutting equipment, grinders, magnetic drills, and other fabrication equipment. Tack weld components as qualified or prepare assemblies for welding. Perform structural modifications and fit-up corrections as directed by engineering or supervision. Verify dimensions using precision measuring instruments. Utilize chain falls, come-alongs, hydraulic jacks, wedges, dogs, strongbacks, and other fitting equipment to position structural members. Identify and resolve fit-up issues while maintaining engineering requirements. Maintain production schedules while meeting established quality standards. Inspect completed work for accuracy prior to welding or turnover. Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and environmental requirements. Maintain housekeeping standards throughout assigned work areas. Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and process improvements. Mentor and assist apprentice and junior Shipfitters as assigned. Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Minimum 2 years of shipfitting, heavy structural steel fabrication, or related industrial experience preferred.
  • Experience in new construction shipbuilding is highly desirable.
  • Ability to read and interpret structural drawings, blueprints, and work packages.
  • Knowledge of shipbuilding terminology and structural assembly methods.
  • Strong mathematical and measurement skills.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
  • Technical Knowledge
  • The successful candidate should demonstrate knowledge of:
  • Structural steel fabrication
  • Shipbuilding construction methods
  • Blueprint reading
  • Dimensional layout
  • Hull construction
  • Bulkhead installation
  • Foundation installation
  • Structural alignment
  • Fairing techniques
  • Material identification
  • Weld symbols
  • Precision measuring instruments
  • Rigging fundamentals
  • Required Tools
  • Candidates should possess and maintain, at a minimum:
  • Tape Measure (25' or 30')Combination Square
  • Framing Square
  • Soapstone HolderCenter Punch
  • Chipping HammerBall Peen Hammer
  • Adjustable WrenchSpeed SquareLevelTorpedo LevelDrift PinsSpud WrenchPry BarCold Chisels
  • Vice GripsC-Clamps
  • Channel Lock PliersNeedle Nose PliersSide Cutters
  • Utility Knife
  • FlashlightTool Belt or Tool BagAdditional specialty tools may be required depending on assignment.
  • Equipment Used
  • Magnetic Drill
  • Portable Grinders
  • Plasma CutterOxy-Fuel Cutting Equipment
  • Chain FallsCome-Alongs
  • Hydraulic JacksAir ToolsPower Drills
  • Measuring Equipment
  • Material Handling Equipment
Physical Requirements:
  • Lift up to 50 pounds regularly and heavier weights with assistance.
  • Stand, walk, bend, kneel, squat, crawl, and climb for extended periods.
  • Work in confined spaces, tanks, double bottoms, and elevated work areas.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).Work overtime, weekends, and shift work as required.
  • Work Environment
  • Work is performed in an active shipbuilding environment and includes exposure to:
  • NoiseDustWelding fumes
  • Extreme temperatures
  • Elevated work platforms
  • Confined spaces
  • Heavy industrial equipment
  • Moving machinery
  • Safety Requirements
  • Comply with all OSHA regulations and company safety policies.
  • Participate in daily safety meetings.
  • Properly inspect and maintain assigned tools.
  • Wear required PPE at all times.
  • Report unsafe conditions immediately.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
Decision-Making Authority: The Shipfitter is expected to exercise sound judgment in evaluating fit-up, alignment, and assembly issues while ensuring compliance with engineering drawings, quality standards, and safety requirements. The employee must recognize conditions requiring supervisory or engineering review and communicate issues promptly to prevent production delays or quality concerns. Performance Expectations Success in this position is measured by:
  • Safe work performance
  • Quality of workmanship
  • ProductivityBlueprint interpretation accuracy
  • Minimal rework
  • Attendance and reliability
  • Teamwork and communication
  • Compliance with company procedures and quality standards
Eastern Shipbuilding Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to maintaining a safe, productive, and inclusive workplace.

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Level

Senior L5

Location

Panama City, FL

Occupation

Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters

Industry

Ship Building and Repairing

Posted

yesterday

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