Shipfitter is the term for a specific classification of marine jobs performed by ship builders. These specialists often work at commercial and naval shipyards on the construction or repair of a ship. At its most basic, a shipfitter is literally the person who fits the pieces of the ship together using riveting or welding skills. Have you considered a career as a shipfitter? Here are the ways you can pursue this career for the future.
Experience in construction or fabrication
A good start is having a background in general construction and fabrication. Specifically having worked with large scale materials like you might with a ship. Small scale machining or other manufacturing may not apply as much when it comes to dealing with the massive scale of ship building.
Strong skills in math and ability to read blueprints
Construction can also give you a good background with blueprints, which you will need to be able to read for shipfitting positions. Math is also important and many shipyards will test your skills with basic and more complex math as well as measurements and blueprints.
Experience working in a shipyard environment
If you’ve worked in a shipyard in any capacity you may have an advantage when it comes to pursuing a shipfitting position. Shipyards are unlike other fabrication environments, especially when you consider the unpredictable nature of the water. This background can help you better apply your skills.
Ability to carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds
Shipfitting is all about carrying and placing the large panels of the ship together. Knowing welding or riveting is important, of course, but so is the ability to lift these panels into place. You will need to be able to carry materials that weight up to 50 pounds and understand the safety requirements for this task.
Ability to scale heights and adhere to safety standards
Other safety standards will also come into play in a shipfitting job. You will need to be able to scale heights safely using the proper protocol and safety equipment. Without the ability to climb or be comfortable at these heights you may not be able to perform the most important aspects of a shipfitters job.
Work with a leader in shipyard staffing.
Are you looking for a position as a shipfitter? Contact the recruiters at Hutco to learn more about our opportunities today.