Shipboard Welder (Contract – Onsite)

Location:
Newport News Shipbuilding
Newport News, VA
Onsite work required

Compensation:
$45–$55 per hour, based on experience and qualifications

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Shipboard Welder to support onsite structural repair work at Newport News Shipbuilding. This project-based role will support the repair of the APCO Technologies TPT1 fixture aboard a docked submarine. All work must be performed onsite within the shipyard and in full compliance with Newport News Shipbuilding access, safety, and hot-work requirements.

The ideal candidate has demonstrated experience performing structural welding in shipyard or similarly controlled industrial environments, is comfortable working aboard vessels or dockside, and can meet all shipyard access and compliance requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform onsite structural welding repairs on the APCO Technologies TPT1 fixture in accordance with shipyard standards and approved procedures
• Remove damaged fixture components and prepare surfaces through grinding and weld preparation
• Fit, align, and weld replacement structural leg and foot assemblies
• Ensure weld quality, alignment, and structural integrity of repaired components
• Support and participate in required weld inspections and testing, including:
  • Visual Testing (VT)
  • Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)
  • Radiographic / X-Ray Testing (RT), if required
• Restore repaired areas through surface preparation and paint or finish matching, as applicable
• Follow all Newport News Shipbuilding safety, badging, escort, and hot-work permit
  procedures
• Maintain a clean, secure, and compliant work area throughout the duration of the project

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a Shipboard Welder or Structural Welder in shipyards or
  controlled industrial environments
• Demonstrated ability to perform onsite welding aboard docked vessels, fixtures, or
  shipyard structures
• Strong understanding of structural welding practices, fit-up, and weld quality standards
• Experience working under strict safety, access, and compliance requirements
• Ability to successfully pass shipyard background checks, badging, and access
  requirements
• Ability to work independently while coordinating with project management and safety personnel

Technical Requirements (Preferred):

• Structural carbon steel welding experience
• Proficiency with one or more of the following welding processes: SMAW, FCAW, or GMAW
• Experience welding structural members and fixtures in the ¼”–1” thickness range
• Ability to work to shipyard-approved weld procedures and quality standards

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience working at Newport News Shipbuilding
• Familiarity with fixture repair, structural steel components, and heavy industrial welding
• Experience supporting or preparing work for NDT inspections (VT, MT, RT)
• OSHA, shipyard safety, or hot-work certifications

Work Conditions:

• Onsite work in an active shipyard environment
• May require work in confined or controlled spaces aboard docked vessels
• Strict compliance with all shipyard PPE, safety, and escort requirements is mandatory
• Anticipated day-shift work; schedule subject to shipyard requirements

Project Details:

Please Note: This position supports a time-limited onsite repair project for the APCO Technologies TPT1 fixture. Candidates must be available to work onsite at Newport News Shipbuilding for the full duration of the repair effort.