Shipfitter Trainee

Ship fitter Trainee

Ameri-Force Academy is offering a 10-week Earn-and-Learn Ship fitter Training Program designed for motivated individuals ready to launch a hands-on career in shipbuilding.

Through a blend of classroom instruction, hands-on shop training, and shipyard exposure, trainees will develop foundational structural fitting skills aligned with maritime manufacturing standards. Graduates will be equipped to begin work as 2nd Class Structural Fitters, with opportunities for continued upskilling and advancement to 1st Class after one year.

• Participate in classroom, lab, and field instruction on structural fitting fundamentals
• Learn blueprint reading, basic layout, and measurement techniques, including work from engineering sketches, drawings, and diagrams
• Train on shipfitting functions including fit-up of structure, cutting, sniping, sanding, grinding, prepping, and tacking of plates under supervision
• Develop familiarity with mechanical, flame, and arc gouging processes, including back gouging of welds
• Learn safe and effective use of craft tools and equipment, including grinders, sanders, burr motors, band saws, cutting torches, arc gougers, plate magnets, come-alongs, chain falls, and general fitting aids
• Learn to rig plates and equipment safely
• Build working knowledge of shipyard terminology, general ship structure, and vessel layout
• Learn edge preparation and weld joint details
• Develop an introduction to steel preheat, interpass temperature, heat input, and the control of heat distortion and shrinkage during the fit and weld process
• Work toward the weld certification pathway required for structural fitting, including GMAW for aluminum applications and FCAW/GMAW for steel applications
• Apply safe work practices and shipyard procedures at all times
• Work collaboratively under supervision to complete practical projects
• Demonstrate consistent attendance, professionalism, and a strong work ethic
• Successfully complete written and hands-on performance assessments
• Contribute to a positive, team-oriented training environment

• Minimum age: 18+
• Education:
  
  High School Diploma or GED required
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, divide, and measure accurately
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs and work in physically active environments
• Willingness to learn, take direction, and work safely
• Strong attendance and punctuality record

• Prior experience in structural fitting, welding, fabrication, metalworking, or other related mechanical crafts
• Basic familiarity with hand tools, tape measures, squares, or layout tools
• Positive attitude and eagerness to build a long-term skilled trades career
• Interest in hands-on work and shipyard production environments
• Team player with good communication skills

• Ability to bend, squat, stoop, crawl, and kneel, and to perform prolonged standing
• Ability to work at a variety of levels, including waist, eye, and overhead
• Ability to climb safely, including stairs, scaffolding, ladders, and ramps, and to work at heights
• Ability to enter confined spaces through openings as small as 18" x 36" and work in them for prolonged periods
• Ability to withstand hot and cold temperatures
• Ability to use personal protective equipment safely per OSHA standards
• Sufficient handgrip, coordination, and balance to carry and operate tools on uneven surfaces

• Combination of classroom, hands-on shop, and occasional active shipyard settings
• PPE provided by Ameri-Force
• Primarily daytime schedule, Monday through Thursday
• Regular exposure to humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, outside weather, and extreme heat; occasional exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and high noise levels
• Physical, fast-paced, and safety-focused learning environment

As part of the Ameri-Force team, a recognized ESOP company, you have a personal stake in the collective success of the organization, fostering a collaborative and rewarding work environment. Our competitive benefits package includes:

• Industry Leading Pay
• Medical Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Short Term Disability Benefits
• Term Life Benefits
• Referral Bonuses (available for specific jobs only)

Since 1991, Ameri-Force has been a leader in skilled trades staffing, offering a people-focused approach that provides competitive advantages for our clients and rewarding career opportunities for our contract employees. Leveraging our deep expertise in maritime, manufacturing, aerospace, industrial, and energy sectors, we ensure a seamless experience by efficiently managing federal and state taxes, unemployment, and worker's compensation. In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package tailored to meet the needs of our workforce.