Engineering Technician

Join to apply for the Engineering Technician role at Continental Tide Defense Systems, Inc.

Continental Tide Defense Systems is an industry leader providing engineering and industrial services to the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command and other DoD organizations. We strive for a culture where every employee’s voice is heard, and we provide opportunities for growth and professional development.

We are seeking a motivated, energetic, and experienced Engineering Technician with a strong structural background and alteration installation team (AIT) leadership experience to support ship modernization and sustainment projects in Norfolk, VA. The role is field‑oriented and ideal for a hands‑on technical professional experienced in the installation, modification, and repair of U.S. Navy ship structures.

• Serve as the structural SME and project lead for hull, mechanical and structural repairs projects.
• Lead structural teams in layout, cutting, fitting, installation and alignment of structural components.
• Interpret NAVSEA drawings, blueprints and technical specifications for work packages.
• Supervise and mentor ship fitters, mechanics, welders and helpers.
• Collaborate with Project Leads, Program Managers, Engineers, QA & QC and customer representatives.
• Track and report daily progress, labor hours and material usage; assist in scheduling.
• Ensure all work adheres to NAVSEA Standard Items, ABS requirements, OSHA regulations and company policies.
• Maintain and update QA documentation OQE.
• Identify and mitigate project risks, support change orders and contribute to after‑action reporting.
• Perform duties as Site Foreman as required.
• Submit Daily Status Reports and develop Condition Found Reports using Microsoft Project.

• 10 years of shipfitting or structural ship repair experience, with 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Expertise in shipboard structural repairs, insert installation, hull cuts and steel fabrication.
• Strong understanding of QAWBs, OQE documentation and inspection processes.
• Proven leadership skills in a shipboard or industrial repair environment.
• Eligible to obtain a DoD Secret Security Clearance.
• Able to work in confined spaces, at heights and aboard vessels.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting NAVSEA drawings and welding symbols.
• U.S. citizen only (export control).

• Budget and material maintenance experience.
• Former U.S. Navy Hull Technician or structural fabrication/welding certification.
• Welding certifications (FCAW, SMAW, GMAW).
• HPUs, Valves, Pumps/Motors, hydraulic systems experience.
• Support of NAVSEA modernization programs.
• Communication with management, subcontractors and customers regarding cost, staff and schedule.
• Preparation of status reports and contractual plan adherence.
• OSHA 10 or 30 Maritime Certification.
• Microsoft Office proficiency.

• Exposure to open‑air environments; site visits aboard ships and rigs.
• Use of PPE (ear plugs, safety glasses, hard‑hat, steel‑toed boots, gloves).
• Standing, bending, crouching, climbing; exposure to 100+ dB sound.
• Adequate visual and hearing acuity; ability to see in low light.
• Work in confined spaces with limited ventilation.
• Prolonged sedentary periods; ability to lift 30 lbs or more.
• Operate machinery, power tools and heavy equipment.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must perform the essential job duties satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a direct threat to the safety or health of employees or others. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Competitive wages, educational opportunities, employee benefit options, 401(k) plan with company match and an empowering professional environment.

A culture of collaboration, innovation and professional growth; impactful projects supporting the nation’s fleet and opportunities to advance your career.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now through our website at

Continental Tide prohibits discrimination on the basis of protected classes and provides reasonable accommodations to employees and applicants with disabilities. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and participate in E‑Verify. U.S. citizenship is required for most positions.