Shipyard Welder

Overview

Chesapeake Shipbuilding Corp is seeking a dedicated and safety‑conscious Shipyard Welder to support the construction of high‑quality, new‑build cruise ships. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong work ethic, technical welding skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented environment focused on high production standards.

Full‑time position. Base pay range: $21.00/hr - $30.00/hr depending on experience and weld test.
Benefits include full‑time medical, dental and vision; $20,000 in AD&D life insurance plus short‑term disability at no cost; supplemental life insurance; $1,000 signing bonus paid in two increments after 60 and 180 days of continuous employment; referral program pays $500 for each referred employee hired; 401(k) match after 1 year; six paid company holidays; paid sick and vacation time; health savings account;

career advancement opportunities; overtime available after 40 hours; $2.00 shift differential for evening and night shifts.

Safely and efficiently perform welding labor to complete construction associated with building cruise ships.

• Welding ¼" to 1" steel using FCAW and occasionally SMAW
• Plasma cutting
• Tack welding with stick and semi‑automatic welding equipment (preferred)
• Follow instructions from foreman/supervisors on‑site and keep the job site clean
• Operate industrial welding torches and handle sharp pieces of metal for prolonged periods of time
• Operate in isolation within the skeleton of ships, wearing heavy protective gear and carrying equipment weighing 40 to 75 lbs
• All other duties as assigned based on operational needs

• Knowledge of proper safety practices.
• Certification in FCAW/SMAW processes or equivalent industry credentials (preferred, but not required).
• Experience operating forklifts and working in confined spaces.
• Familiar with industry codes and regulations.
• Knowledge of safe use of tools and equipment.
• Work independently and with teams.

Physical Requirements

• All types of physical movement required.
• Ability to use upper and lower extremities.
• Ability to work outside in heat, inclement weather, and cold.
• Ability to crawl, kneel, crouch, climb, and bend around and under equipment, on ladders up to 24' at heights up to 70', stairs, scaffolds, through small accesses, enter inside of tanks, and confined spaces, through hatches, and manholes throughout much of the work shift.
• Occasionally lift/move up to 75 pounds.
• Able to work over bodies of water.

Mental Requirements – Normal level of visual acuity, hearing level and hand‑eye coordination, ability to understand and follow directions.

Hazards – Weather, fumes, high noise levels, moving mechanical parts, equipment, and vibration.

• Monday – Friday
• Day Shift: 6:00 am – 2:30 pm
• Evening Shift: 3:00 pm – 11:30 pm
• Overtime and weekend required based on business needs.

Welding Supervisor / On‑Site Foreman / Shipyard Superintendent.

Posted 07/15/2025. Join Chesapeake Shipbuilding for a rewarding career.