Marine Structural Mechanic - Boilermaker Support

Job Description

Job Description

Marine Structural Mechanic – Boilermaker Support

Location: Norfolk, VA
Job Type: Full-Time | Contract / Temp-to-Hire Available
Industry: Maritime | Ship Repair | Defense

A Day in the Life

As a Marine Structural Mechanic supporting boilermaker operations, you start your day with a toolbox check and a safety brief on the pier. You’ll climb aboard U.S. Navy and commercial vessels to help dismantle worn structures, prep steel for cutting and welding, and align new components with precision. By afternoon, you’re laying out measurements for bulkhead repairs, prepping tanks for fit-up, and teaming with boilermakers to secure new foundations—all while keeping to production milestones and strict safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with boilermakers to remove, repair, fabricate, and install structural ship components.
• Service tanks, foundations, watertight hatches, bulkheads, and related mechanical equipment.
• Interpret blueprints, drawings, sketches, and technical work documents (TWDs).
• Operate hand and power tools, grinders, pneumatic tools, and cutting equipment/torches.
• Fit, align, and secure steel parts and assemblies to spec.
• Prepare surfaces for welding, cutting, and installation tasks.
• Lay out and verify measurements using tape, levels, squares, and precision tools.
• Remove and replace damaged metallic structures and equipment.
• Work within tanks, voids, confined spaces, and other demanding shipboard environments.
• Adhere to OSHA, NAVSEA, and yard safety protocols; maintain an orderly worksite.
• Support production targets and schedule commitments for active projects.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of shipyard, industrial, or heavy mechanical experience preferred.
• Strongly preferred: experience assisting boilermakers, shipfitters, welders, or structural repair teams.
• Ability to read and apply blueprints and work specifications.
• Familiarity with ship repair practices and maritime safety standards.
• Proficiency with common shipyard tools and equipment.
• Detail-focused with a dedication to quality workmanship.
• Reliable transportation and consistent attendance.

Physical Demands

• Routinely lift up to 50 lbs.
• Climb ladders, work at heights, and enter confined spaces.
• Stand, kneel, crouch, and bend for extended periods in various weather conditions.
• Wear all required PPE; respirator use as needed.

Credentials & Compliance

• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain shipyard access credentials (DBIDS preferred).
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Shipyard safety certifications are a plus.

Preferred Background

• U.S. Navy ship repair experience.
• Work aboard aircraft carriers, submarines, destroyers, amphibious ships, or commercial vessels.
• Knowledge of NAVSEA standards and military specifications.
• Fire Watch, OSHA 10 Maritime, or Confined Space certifications.

Benefits

• Competitive pay with weekly payroll
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid sick leave
• Paid holidays (where applicable)
• Opportunities for overtime
• Long-term career growth with a leading maritime staffing partner

About LEAD Marine

LEAD Marine connects highly skilled marine and industrial tradespeople with premier shipyards, government contractors, and repair facilities nationwide. We support critical shipbuilding and maintenance programs while creating rewarding careers for our craftsmen.

Join us and help keep America’s fleet mission-ready.