Trades Trainee - Pipefitter

General Dynamics NASSCO is a proud member of the General Dynamics Marine Systems business unit, specializing in ship construction, advanced ship repair, conversion, and maintenance for both commercial and national defense assets. This position is located in Norfolk, Virginia.

About the role

The Trades Trainee Pipefitter position is the first step into an exciting career in the shipyard. This 20-week program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training to prepare you for a skilled tradesperson role supporting Navy customers in shipyards and on Navy bases.

Schedule

Work hours are 0600 to 1445 with a 45-minute lunch. May be required to work 2nd shift (1500 to 2300).

Responsibilities

• Successfully complete designated training program(s) and obtain required certifications.
• Organize, arrange, and maintain order in stockrooms and other material staging areas.
• Ensure you are trained or qualified for assigned work.
• Perform job safely, recognizing and avoiding potential safety hazards while maintaining quality control.
• Demonstrate good housekeeping skills to maintain a clean, hazard-free work environment.
• Follow established policies and procedures, including timekeeping.
• Be fully aware of emergency and evacuation procedures, including muster locations.
• Know and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for assigned work.
• Navigate a ship and understand compartment designation, where applicable.
• Apply basic math knowledge to job tasks.
• Follow directions from a lead mechanic.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (trade school education preferred).
• Regular and reliable on-site attendance.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to obtain and maintain access to Navy installations and vessels (e.g., DBIDS and NAVSEA badges).
• Must pass a background check and pre-employment drug screen.
• May require travel.

Skills

• Adaptability: Anticipates and effectively handles change; willingly accepts new ideas.
• Collaboration: Builds partnerships and works collaboratively to meet shared objectives; seeks and values others’ opinions.
• Communication: Communicates effectively both verbally and in writing in English.
• Results Driven: Effectively manages time and resources to ensure work is completed efficiently.
• Initiative: Proactively identifies needs, takes responsibility, and acts without prompting.
• Problem Solving & Decision Making: Identifies problems, solves them, acts decisively, and shows good judgment.

Physical Requirements

The Trades Trainee must be able to perform the following activities, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Carrying and lifting
• Walking, sitting, and standing
• Climbing and crawling
• Crouching, stooping, and kneeling
• Pulling and reaching
• Accessing and navigating vessels
• Hearing, speaking, and meeting visual requirements necessary to perform assigned work safely

Working Relationships

• Reports to the shop foreman and general foreman.
• Works closely with and receives direction from a lead mechanic.