Shipfitter Trainee - Complete Trades Training

SHIP FITTER TRAINEE – COMPLETE 3 WEEKS OF FREE TRADES TRAINING 7AM–3:30PM

This position is for job seekers with no trades experience willing to complete three weeks of unpaid training in shipfitting at Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of HII. Ship fitter trainees learn to interpret blueprints and fabricate the steel structures that make up aircraft carriers and submarines. Training is offered in partnership with the Virginia Ship Repair Association, local community colleges, and maritime training facilities.

The program runs Monday–Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, for 120 hours.

As a Ship fitter Trainee you will:

• Use a variety of tools to measure, cut, grind, fit, align and tack weld components.
• Fabricate both exterior structures and interior components—including hatches, doors, bulkheads and steelwork on the vessel.
• Work in a variety of shipyard shops, on concrete and metal structures, dry docks and aboard ships for new construction, repair and overhaul.
• Operate safely in extreme heights, small confined spaces, and all weather conditions.
• Perform tasks that require kneeling, squatting, crawling, bending, stooping and climbing.

• Pass a 3‑week (UNPAID) training program (120 hours, 7:00‑3:30 pm, Monday–Friday).
  Must be willing to undergo a background investigation and drug screen.
  Must be able to lift at least 40 pounds.
  Must be able to perform overhead work, work at extreme heights, and work in small, tight, confined spaces.
  Must be able to work overtime as needed and be willing to work any shift.
  Must be clean‑shaven to wear a respirator.
  Must work outdoors year‑round in all weather conditions.

• High school graduate or equivalent.

HII builds the world’s most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space, and cyber. Our diverse workforce includes skilled tradespeople, AI/ML experts, engineers, scientists, logistics specialists, and business professionals. As an HII employee you’ll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and educational and training programs for continual career growth.

We offer comprehensive benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental and vision plans, on‑site health centers, tele‑medicine, wellness resources, employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, financial education tools, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, early‑childhood and post‑secondary scholarships, and more. Some benefits may vary by division or work location.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status. U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain positions.

If you require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please e‑mail  For additional assistance, call 1‑844‑849‑8463 and press #2 for Newport News Shipbuilding.