1st Class Structural Fitter

Structural / Welder

Harvey, Louisiana

Full-Time

Competitive Pay Based on Experience

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Shipfitter/Welder to join our marine fabrication team in Harvey, LA. The Shipfitter/Welder is responsible for fabricating, fitting, aligning, and welding structural steel components used in shipbuilding and vessel repair. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the structural integrity of ship hulls, decks, bulkheads, and related marine structures.

The ideal candidate has strong blueprint-reading skills, hands-on welding and fabrication experience, and the ability to work safely in demanding shipyard environments.

Key ResponsibilitiesLayout & Fabrication

• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and technical specifications
• Lay out, cut, shape, and bend metal components
• Operate oxy-fuel torches, plasma cutters, grinders, and fabrication equipment

Fitting & Assembly

• Position and align structural steel components including plates, beams, bulkheads, and decking
• Use jigs, chain falls, hydraulic jacks, wedges, clamps, and turnbuckles for assembly
• Fit components to precise maritime specifications and tolerances

Welding & Tack Welding

• Perform structural welding using MIG, TIG, Flux-Core, and Stick welding processes
• Tack weld components prior to final welding
• Ensure weld quality meets shipyard and marine standards

Precision Measurement

• Use tape measures, squares, levels, and other measuring tools
• Verify dimensions and alignment accuracy

Maintenance & Repair

• Repair damaged ship structures and components
• Install hatches, doors, brackets, and support structures

Safety Compliance

• Follow all shipyard and OSHA safety regulations
• Work safely in confined spaces, elevated areas, and outdoor conditions
• Maintain clean and organized work areas

Must-Have Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum 3 years of shipfitting or marine welding experience
• Strong blueprint and structural drawing interpretation skills
• Experience with MIG, TIG, Flux-Core, or Stick welding
• Ability to operate fabrication and cutting equipment safely
• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs
• Comfortable working in confined spaces and at heights
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety

Preferred Qualifications

• Vocational or technical school training in welding/fabrication
• AWS or ABS welding certifications
• Prior shipyard or marine industry experience
• Experience with aluminum or stainless steel fabrication
• Forklift, rigging, or overhead crane experience
• Knowledge of maritime/naval construction standards

Tools & Equipment Used

• MIG/TIG/Stick welding machines
• Oxy-fuel burning torches
• Plasma cutters and grinders
• Hydraulic jacks and chain falls
• Clamps, wedges, and turnbuckles
• Hand tools including hammers, squares, and tape measures

Work Environment

• Fab shop
• Exposure to heat, noise, dust, and outdoor weather conditions
• Frequent standing, climbing, kneeling, and bending

AI Screening Questions (6 Relevant Questions)

1. How many years of shipfitting or marine welding experience do you have?
2. Which welding processes are you experienced with? (MIG, TIG, Flux-Core, Stick)
3. Are you able to read and interpret shipbuilding blueprints and structural drawings?
4. Do you have any current welding certifications such as AWS or ABS?
5. Are you comfortable working in confined spaces, at heights, and lifting up to 75 lbs?
6. Have you previously worked in a shipyard or marine fabrication environment?