Shipyard Helper / Firewatch
About The Position
Venture Dynamics is seeking reliable and safety-focused Shipyard Helper/Firewatch personnel to support ship repair and industrial operations aboard Navy and commercial vessels. This entry-level role performs general labor tasks, assists multiple trades, and monitors hot-work activities to maintain a safe and compliant working environment. Work is performed in shipyards, dry docks, piers, shops, tanks, voids, and aboard vessels in a wide variety of industrial conditions. This position supports shipyard projects throughout the Virginia Hampton Roads region , including Norfolk, Portsmouth, Newport News, Hampton, and Yorktown.
Requirements
- Ability to perform firewatch duties (training provided if not certified)
- Ability to pass an annual respirator fit-test when assigned to hot-work or confined-space support
- Ability to obtain DBIDS/base access when required
- Ability to stand for extended periods and remain alert during hot-work operations
- Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, and safely enter confined spaces
- Ability to lift 30–50 lbs and work in physically demanding environments
- Ability to work in hot, cold, tight, and noisy industrial environments
- Must pass background check and drug screening per customer requirements
- Reliable transportation and strong attendance
- Willingness to work overtime, nights, weekends, and variable shipyard schedules as needed
Nice To Haves
- OSHA-10 Maritime
- Prior firewatch, industrial labor, or construction experience
- Experience using basic hand tools such as scrapers, wire brushes, or grinders
- Exposure to shipyard trades (welding, fitting, pipe, mechanical, painting, insulation, etc.)
- Familiarity with hot-work and confined-space safety procedures
Responsibilities
- Stand firewatch during welding, cutting, grinding, and other hot-work operations
- Maintain visual awareness of active work areas and identify potential hazards
- Alert workers and supervisors to unsafe or hazardous conditions during hot-work evolutions
- Assist trades by staging materials, moving equipment, and performing basic labor tasks
- Perform cleanup, debris removal, sweeping, and general housekeeping duties
- Deliver tools, consumables, hoses, ventilation ducting, and temporary service equipment
- Perform light surface-prep work such as scraping and wire-brushing when not assigned to hot-work
- Support confined-space entry operations under shipyard protocols and direction
- Follow directions from supervisors and senior craftsmen to support daily tasks
- Follow OSHA Maritime, NAVSEA, and shipyard safety requirements
- Maintain tool control, housekeeping, and safe work practices at all times
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
