Outside Machinist

About the role

BAE Systems is hiring Outside Machinists to support the Norfolk Ship Repair facility. The Outside Machinist Mechanic performs a variety of skilled mechanical duties involving deck machinery, engine‑room work, general dock, rudders, shafting, propeller work, and testing. The mechanic records work performed and follows specified safety policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain deck machinery such as anchor windlass, sliding pad eye, boat davit, and capstans; assist with repair, cleaning, removal, and installation.
• Work on rudders: understand parts, assist with removal and installation.
• Handle shafting components (liners, journals, line shaft bearings); assist with removal, installation, and repairs.
• Service propellers (fixed and variable pitch) and controllable‑pitch propeller systems; perform repair, removal, installation, and testing.
• Perform valve overhaul: identify safety, globe, gate, and other valve types; assist with removal, replacement, repair, and general overhaul.
• Assist with reach rods and valve operators: set up, understand components, and support operation.
• Conduct pump overhaul and alignment: remove, install, and align pumps using methods such as face‑and‑rim, indicator reverse, magnetic coupling, or laser.
• Use measuring devices (rulers, micrometers, dial indicators, depth micrometers, scales) and trade hand tools.
• Operate stationary and portable power tools (electric drills, saws, grinders, drill presses) in electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic configurations.
• Read basic blueprints and interpret simple technical drawings.
• Care for and protect customer equipment using appropriate wrapping materials (wood, plastic, rubber, etc.).
• Follow job planning, proper tool selection, and safety procedures with minimal supervision.

Requirements

• Education: Minimum High School Diploma/GED.
• Relevant Experience: 3–5 years in a ship‑repair or similar mechanical environment.
• Practical Theory: Demonstrated knowledge of job planning, tool selection, and assisting helpers with minimal supervision.
• Core Skills:
  • Ability to read, write, and comprehend simple instructions.
  • Common‑sense application of written, oral, or diagrammatic directions.
  • Proficiency in calculating and understanding units of measure, fractions, and decimals.
  • Competence in measuring with scales and tape measures.
  • Wearing required PPE (hard hat, safety goggles, gloves, steel‑toe shoes, ear protection).
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Training in all annual NAVSEA Standard Items.
  • General knowledge of ship systems, including distilling plants, steam plant, diesel plant, and hydraulic systems.
  • Understanding of naval vessel compartments, numbering systems, and terminology for CG, DDG, and LHD ships.

Pay

Salary range: $29.00 – $35.00 per hour (approximately $60,320 – $72,800 annually). Actual compensation may vary based on shift differentials and the terms of the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health Savings Account (HSA).
• 401(k) savings plan.
• Disability coverage.
• Life and accident insurance.
• Employee assistance program and legal plan.
• Discounts on home, auto, and pet insurance.
• Paid time off, paid holidays, and additional leave (military, bereavement, federal/state sick leave).
• Company recognition program with monetary and non‑monetary awards.
• Other incentives based on position level and job specifics.