Steel Erector

Chesapeake Shipbuilding is looking for a safety-minded, hardworking individual with a strong production focus to help build the structural backbone of cruise ships.

About the role

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position reporting to the Fitting Supervisor, On-Site Foreman, or Shipyard Superintendent.

Responsibilities

• Safely and efficiently perform general carpentry labor to complete construction associated with building cruise ships.
• Perform tack welding to secure components or parts in preparation for full welding.
• Ensure accurate alignment of workpieces based on blueprint specifications.
• Erect the frames, beams, longitudinal and stiffening members that are the core structures of cruise ships.
• Install structural outfit items, doors, ladders, foundations.
• Tack welding with stick and semi-automatic welding equipment (preferred).
• All other duties as required.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Stick Welder with a focus on tack welding.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, welding symbols, and specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and precision in tack welding.
• Familiar with crane hand signs (preferred).
• Safe use of all tools and equipment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

• All types of physical movement are required to successfully perform the essential functions.
• Ability to use upper and lower extremities.
• Ability to work outside in heat, inclement weather, and cold.
• Ability to traverse uneven terrain, including loose pack gravel.
• Ability to crawl, kneel, crouch, climb, and bend around and under equipment, on ladders up to 24' at heights up to 70', stairs, scaffolds, through small accesses, inside of tanks, and confined spaces, through hatches, and manholes throughout much of the work shift.
• Ability to work over bodies of water.
• Operate in isolation within the skeleton of ships, wearing heavy protective gear and carrying equipment weighing up to 75 lbs.
• Ability to safely wear and use required personal protective equipment (PPE), including respiratory protection, safety glasses, welding shields, grinding shields, gloves, life jackets, harnesses, hard hats, and other task- or area-specific PPE.
• Employees required to wear tight-fitting respiratory protection must maintain facial hair in a manner that does not interfere with the respirator’s sealing surface or proper fit.

Mental Requirements

• Normal level of visual acuity needed.
• Must be able to understand and follow directions.
• Normal hearing level needed.
• Hand-eye coordination required.

Hazards

• Weather, fumes, high noise levels, moving mechanical parts, equipment, and vibration.

Pay

$21.00/hr - $30.00/hr depending on experience and weld test.

$1,000 sign-on bonus paid in two installments after 60 and 180 days of continuous employment for eligible full-time positions.

Earn $500 for each referred candidate who is hired.

Schedule

• Monday – Friday
• Day Shift: 6:00 am – 2:30 pm
• Evening Shift: 3:00 pm – 11:30 pm
• Overtime and weekend work required based on business needs.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits: medical, dental, and vision coverage available for employees and their families. Full-time employees are eligible beginning the first day of the month following their start date.
• Company-paid insurance: $20,000 AD&D life insurance and short-term disability coverage provided at no cost to full-time employees.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) available for eligible employees.
• 401(k) with 5% company match available for full-time and part-time employees.
• Paid holidays: six company-paid holidays each year.
• Paid sick and vacation time:
  • 80 hours during your first year
  • 96 hours after 1 year
  • 144 hours after 5 years
  • 168 hours after 10 years
• Career growth opportunities: advance within your department or explore opportunities across the shipyard while working with a supportive and empowered team.
• Overtime opportunities available for hours worked beyond 40 per week.