PIPE FITTER TRAINEE - 3 WEEK UNPAID TRAINING PROGRAM (7AM-3:30PM)
About the role
This position is for job seekers with no trades experience who are willing to complete three weeks of unpaid training in the Pipefitter trade. Newport News Shipbuilding has partnered with the Virginia Ship Repair Association and local Virginia community colleges and maritime training facilities to offer the Marine Trades Training (MTT) program. The Pipefitter Trainee program is offered at Tidewater Community College (Portsmouth, VA) and consists of 120 hours (3 weeks) of training, 7:00 am – 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Trainees learn to read blueprints, fabricate, install, inspect, and test ship piping systems, and perform tasks such as assembling, welding, and securing pipe, as well as troubleshooting and repairing existing systems. Work occurs in various weather conditions, at extreme heights on scaffolding or ladders, and in small, confined spaces such as tanks, compartments, or voids, requiring a strong focus on safety, precision, adaptability, physical agility, and comfort in challenging environments. HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division designs, builds, and refuels U.S. Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and submarines, employing over 25,000 employees and fostering a values‑driven, safety‑first culture that supports career growth.
Responsibilities
- Read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
- Fabricate, assemble, weld, and secure pipe systems.
- Install, inspect, and test ship piping systems.
- Troubleshoot and repair existing piping systems.
- Work in diverse weather conditions, at extreme heights, and in confined spaces.
- Maintain strict safety standards and demonstrate physical agility.
Requirements
- Successfully complete the 3‑week (120‑hour) unpaid Pipefitter Trainee program (7:00 am – 3:30 pm, Monday‑Friday).