Welder Fitter
About The Position
Ontario Shipyards operates two premier marine facilities on Lake Ontario: our main fabrication hub in Hamilton and the historic Port Weller Dry Docks on the Welland Canal in St. Catharines. Together, we form the largest Canadian-owned ship repair and refit operation on the Great Lakes. As a trusted partner to the Canadian Coast Guard and major commercial fleets, our combined yards deliver everything from advanced manufacturing to massive vessel life extensions. The company is embarking on an unprecedented period of growth driven by the opportunities created by Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy. At the same time, the company is executing the Ontario Shipyard Modernization Project (OSMP) which is a multi-million-dollar initiative that is revolutionizing shipyard operations in Ontario and ultimately Canada. Our team takes immense pride in keeping the Great Lakes fleet moving, building and maintaining the giant vessels that drive Canada's economy – where water meets mettle. Reporting to the Welding Supervisor, the Welder Fitter is responsible for fabricating, assembling, and welding structural metal components for vessel construction and repair. The position is responsible for interpreting blueprints, measuring, cutting, shaping, and fitting metal parts while ensuring compliance with industry standards. The Welder Fitter operates specialized tools, selects appropriate welding methods, and inspects work for accuracy and quality to support efficient project execution.
Requirements
- Possess 5+ years of hands-on fitting/welding experience in construction or maintenance settings.
- A valid CWB certification is required.
- Demonstrate the ability to work independently, follow instructions precisely, and work collaboratively within a team environment with strong attention to detail.
- Comfort and physical capability to work in a rugged shipyard environment, including climbing scaffolding, navigating dry docks, and entering tight, confined vessel spaces daily.
Nice To Haves
- High School Diploma or equivalent is preferred.
- Previous experience in ship repair is considered an asset.
- SMAW all-position certification is preferred.
- Experience in FCAW and GMAW processes is preferred.
- A valid Red Seal Trade Certification 456A is considered an asset.
- Familiarity with layout tools, understanding crane signals, and rigging/hoisting terminology is considered an asset.
Responsibilities
- Strict adherence to safety protocols and guidelines for operational safety.
- Conduct pre-use inspections of tools, equipment, and materials to ensure they are in safe working condition.
- Read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints to determine materials, plan work sequences, and optimize metal cutting and welding efficiency.
- Construct patterns and templates, lay out reference points, and mark heavy metal components according to specifications.
- Cut, shape, fit, and assemble structural metal components using various welding and fabrication techniques.
- Rig, hoist, and transport materials within the worksite, ensuring proper handling and storage.
- Operate heavy-duty metalworking machines, including brake presses, shears, cutting torches, grinders, drills, and CNC equipment, to cut, bend, punch, and shape metal components.
- Maintain accurate records of work performed to support quality control and project documentation.
- Demonstrate flexibility to meet deadlines, proactively identifying and addressing potential delays while proposing solutions to management.
- Collaborate and assist colleagues with daily operational needs.
- Perform other duties as assigned or requested to support operations.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health benefits including health, dental, vision, life and disability coverage for you and your dependents
- RRSP matching program and Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Paid vacation time and statutory holidays
- Discounts on Safety Boots & Safety Glasses
- Opportunities for professional development and specialized shipyard training
- On-site parking
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
