SHIPFITTER - SEMI - SKILLED (October 2026 Hiring Event)

Req ID: 49998 | Team: 07 Shipfitters | Entity: Ingalls Shipbuilding | U.S. Citizenship Required | Full‑Time | Multiple Shifts | No Relocation Assistance | No Telework | No Travel Required

About the role

With more than 11,000 employees, HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding division is the largest manufacturing employer in Mississippi and a major contributor to the economic growth of Alabama. For nearly 85 years, we’ve designed, built, and maintained amphibious ships, destroyers, and cutters for the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard. As the largest supplier of U.S. Navy surface combatants, we’re simultaneously building four classes of ships and have pioneered the development and production of technologically advanced, highly capable ships for the surface navy fleet for decades.

Ingalls Shipbuilding is looking for Semi‑Skilled Shipfitters who have foundational experience in metal fabrication, construction, or shipyard work — and want to continue building their skills on America’s most advanced naval vessels. As a Semi‑Skilled Shipfitter, you’ll support the fabrication, assembly, and installation of structural components that form the backbone of our ships. You’ll work with steel, tools, and shipbuilding equipment to help craft vessels that serve missions around the world.

Semi‑Skilled Shipfitters play a key role in building the structures that make our ships strong, safe, and mission‑ready. Your craftsmanship directly supports the performance and durability of the vessels that protect our nation.

Pay

Earn up to $28.07 per hour, based on your experience and demonstrated skill level. Additional opportunities for overtime, training, and advancement into higher‑level craft roles.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate, assemble, and install structural components in ship construction.
• Use torches, levels, tape measures, grinders, welding equipment, and other shipfitter tools.
• Assist with layout, alignment, cutting, and fit‑up of metal components.
• Interpret basic drawings, follow measurements, and apply practical math skills.
• Work in shipboard environments including heights, confined spaces, and varying weather conditions.
• Support production needs in a 24/7 manufacturing environment and be available for any shift.

Requirements

• Minimum 6 months trade experience in metal fabrication, shipyard work, construction, or a related trade.
• Basic math, reading, and comprehension skills.
• Read and interpret blueprints utilizing both metric and standard measurements.
• Knowledge of the layout, fit‑up, and fabrication of steel plate and beam.
• Experience with various trade‑specific tools such as: grinder, hand torch, hydraulic and ratchet jack, chain fall and/or come‑a‑long, combination square, framing square, hand level, and plumb bob.
• Ability to use measuring tools and basic fabrication equipment.
• Commitment to safety, precision, and teamwork.
• Willingness to work in active shipyard environments and continue developing your skills (further training is provided to help you progress into higher skill levels).

Qualifications

• Knowledge of setting and erecting units; knowledge of the use of Datum Lines; familiar with fit‑up and alignment tolerances.
• Advanced blueprint reading skills.
• 3–5 years of marine, shipbuilding, or construction experience.
• Tech Master Certification.
• High School Graduate or Equivalent.

Benefits

HII offers comprehensive benefits including:

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision plan choices
• On‑site health centers
• Tele‑medicine
• Wellness resources
• Employee assistance programs
• Savings plan options (401K)
• Financial education and planning tools
• Life insurance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee discounts
• Early childhood and post‑secondary education scholarships
• And more (some benefits may vary depending on your specific division or work location)