Marine Painter​/Powertooler in Norfolk

Job Description Job Description

We are actively seeking experienced Marine Painters / Powertoolers to support major shipyard operations throughout the Hampton Roads area
. This role is ideal for dependable tradespeople with shipyard or industrial surface preparation experience who are ready for steady work and long-term opportunity.

This is a safety-driven position offering competitive pay, consistent hours, and the chance to work on large naval and commercial vessels.

• Perform surface preparation using power tools (grinders, needle guns, sanders, etc.)
• Remove rust, scale, old coatings, and debris from ship structures
• Prep surfaces for painting and coating applications
• Apply marine coatings and paints as required (if painter qualified)
• Work on ships, in dry docks, confined spaces, and elevated areas
• Follow all shipyard safety procedures and PPE requirements
• Maintain clean work areas and properly care for tools and equipment
• Collaborate with other trades to meet production schedules
• Meet quality, productivity, and workmanship standards

• Previous shipyard or industrial powertooler / marine painter experience ()
• Comfortable working in confined spaces, heights, and industrial environments
• Ability to operate grinders, needle guns, sanders, and related tools
• Knowledge of surface prep standards for marine coatings is a plus
• Must be reliable, safety-focused, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to pass pre-employment screening requirements
• DBIDS credential a plus (or ability to obtain)

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience
• Steady shipyard work in Hampton Roads
• Weekly pay options
• Long-term placement opportunities
• Supportive staffing team with shipyard industry expertise
• PPE guidance and onboarding assistance

Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.”