Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of shipbuilding, the focus on shipyard sheet metal workers has never been more critical.

As technology and industrial demands evolve, the need for skilled hands capable of shaping, strengthening, and maintaining the metallic backbone of our marine fleet amplifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a shipyard sheet metal worker?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager identifying the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate processes of shipyard metalwork,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a tailor-made shipyard sheet metal worker job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker Duties and Responsibilities

Shipyard Sheet Metal Workers utilize a combination of technical skills and creativity to construct, assemble, maintain, and repair sheet metal products and equipment in a shipyard.

They are primarily responsible for directly assisting in the shipyard, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Reading and interpreting blueprints, sketches, or product specifications to determine sequence and methods of fabricating, assembling, and installing sheet metal products.
• Selecting gauge and type of sheet metal according to product specifications.
• Measuring and marking dimensions and reference lines on metal sheets.
• Drilling holes in metal for screws, bolts, and rivets.
• Installing and repairing sheet metal products and equipment, such as ducts, control boxes, drainpipes, and furnace casings.
• Setting up and operating fabricating machines to cut, bend, and straighten sheet metal.
• Trimming, filing, grinding, deburring, buffing, and smoothing surfaces, seams, and joints of assembled parts, using hand tools and portable power tools.
• Inspecting assemblies and installations for conformance to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, scales, and micrometer.
• Maintaining and cleaning equipment and work area to ensure proper functioning and safe working conditions.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor or manager.

 

Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the construction, assembly, repair, and installation of sheet metal products and equipment.

As a Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker, your duties will involve tasks like setting up and operating fabricating machines, using hand tools to trim, file, grind, deburr, buff, and smooth surfaces, and inspecting assemblies and installations for conformance to specifications.

Our ideal candidate is a skilled professional with experience in shipyard work, sheet metal, and welding processes.

 

Responsibilities

• Setup and operate fabricating machines to cut, bend, and straighten sheet metal.
• Shape metal material over anvils, blocks, or other forms using hand tools.
• Trim, file, grind, deburr, buff, and smooth surfaces, seams, and joints of assembled parts.
• Inspect assemblies and installations for conformance to specifications.
• Use measuring instruments such as lasers, protractors, and rulers to mark dimensions and cutting lines on materials.
• Repair and maintain sheet metal products.
• Weld, solder, bolt, rivet, screw, clip, caulk, or bond component parts to assemble products.
• Install assemblies in supportive frameworks according to blueprints and specifications.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Sheet Metal Worker, preferably in a shipyard setting.
• Knowledge of metal fabrication and welding processes.
• Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings.
• Excellent manual dexterity and physical stamina.
• Proficiency in using a variety of hand tools and machinery.
• High school diploma or equivalent. Vocational training in sheet metal or welding is preferred.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• On-the-job training opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker
• Work Environment: This role involves working in a shipyard environment, which may include exposure to the elements, noise, and heavy machinery. Safety gear is required at all times.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Shipyard Supervisor or Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $43,234 minimum to $71,560 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker Do?

Shipyard Sheet Metal Workers are specialized tradespeople who typically work in shipbuilding or repair companies, often in industrial or marine settings.

Their primary duty is to fabricate, assemble, install, and repair sheet metal products and equipment, such as ducts, control boxes, drainpipes, and furnace casings, which are used in shipbuilding.

They use various machinery and hand tools to cut, bend and fasten pieces of sheet metal.

They also take measurements and mark dimensions and outlines on the metal sheets prior to cutting.

Shipyard Sheet Metal Workers also read and interpret blueprints, sketches, or product specifications to determine sequence and methods of fabricating, assembling, and installing sheet metal products.

In addition to fabrication, these workers are often involved in the installation of sheet metal parts on ships.

This may involve tasks such as drilling and riveting.

They are also responsible for inspecting the final product to ensure it aligns with the design specifications, meets quality standards, and is properly installed.

Shipyard Sheet Metal Workers often work as part of larger teams and may interact with welders, machinists, and other types of skilled workers during the shipbuilding process.

They also follow strict safety regulations to minimize workplace accidents.

 

Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker Qualifications and Skills

A proficient shipyard sheet metal worker should possess a range of technical and manual skills along with necessary qualifications, including:

• Strong technical knowledge of sheet metal properties, fabrication techniques and installation procedures to ensure high-quality workmanship.
• Proficiency in using a variety of tools and equipment such as shears, brakes, punches, and drill presses for sheet metal fabrication.
• Excellent physical strength and stamina to handle heavy sheet metals and machinery, as well as the ability to work in various physical conditions.
• Precision and attention to detail to ensure accuracy in measurements and cuts, which are crucial in the production and installation process.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and correct possible issues or defects in the metal sheets or the fabrication process.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints, sketches, or product specifications to determine sequence and methods of fabricating, assembling and installing sheet metal products.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to effectively collaborate with other workers or departments and to ensure safety regulations are adhered to.
• Trade certification or relevant apprenticeship in sheet metal work or a related field is often required.

 

Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker Experience Requirements

Aspiring Shipyard Sheet Metal Workers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and should have completed an apprenticeship program or vocational school focused on sheet metal work.

These programs offer theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in working with different types of metal sheets, welding techniques, and safety protocols.

Most entry-level jobs may require at least 1 to 2 years of experience in sheet metal work, possibly obtained through internships, part-time roles, or in apprentice roles in a shipyard or other industrial environments.

Mid-level Shipyard Sheet Metal Workers, with 3 to 5 years of experience, usually have more advanced skills, such as proficiency in operating heavy machinery, supervising and training junior staff, and reading blueprints accurately.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience and project management skills, making them suitable for supervisory roles.

In this capacity, they are often responsible for overseeing the work of junior workers, ensuring safety compliance, and coordinating with other teams in the shipyard.

Continual skill upgrading is necessary in this field, and workers with certifications in welding or heavy machinery operation can have more job opportunities.

 

Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker Education and Training Requirements

Shipyard Sheet Metal Workers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education as a base requirement.

They often gain their skills and technical know-how through on-the-job training programs or apprenticeships which could last from 4 to 5 years.

These programs are typically sponsored by unions and businesses, combining both hands-on practical learning and classroom instruction.

The classroom instruction may cover subjects such as blueprint reading, safety, welding, use of tools and equipment, and metallurgy.

This helps them to be well-versed in the nitty-gritty of sheet metal fabrication and installation.

Although not mandatory, some individuals choose to attend technical schools where programs in welding or sheet metal work are offered.

These programs can provide a solid foundation and increase job prospects.

In some states, sheet metal workers are required to hold a license.

Obtaining this license involves passing an exam that tests their knowledge on the trade.

Continuing education is important in this field as technology and methods evolve, therefore many sheet metal workers pursue additional certification courses to keep their skills up-to-date.

The Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International (FMA) offers credentials in precision sheet metal work.

These credentials, while not required, can provide proof of a candidate’s competence and may enhance job prospects.

 

Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker Salary Expectations

A Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker can expect to earn an average wage of $20.43 (USD) per hour.

The earnings can fluctuate based on experience, location, and the shipyard they are employed by.

 

Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker need?

Shipyard Sheet Metal Workers should have a strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to interpret blueprints and technical instructions.

They should also be skilled in using various tools and machinery related to the trade, such as shears, brakes, punches, and drill presses.

Additionally, they should possess excellent manual dexterity, an eye for detail, and the ability to work in physically demanding conditions.

 

What qualifications does a Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker need?

While there are no specific educational requirements for becoming a Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker, a high school diploma or equivalent is usually necessary.

Most Sheet Metal Workers learn their trade through a 4 or 5-year apprenticeship program, which combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Some workers may also opt to attend technical schools.

 

What should you look for in a Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker resume?

When reviewing a resume, look for evidence of hands-on experience and training in sheet metal work.

It would be beneficial if they have worked in a shipyard environment before.

They should also be able to demonstrate understanding and proficiency in reading blueprints, handling tools, and ensuring safety protocols.

Certifications from recognized trade schools or apprenticeships are a great plus.

 

What qualities make a good Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker?

A good Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker is physically fit and capable of performing heavy labor.

They should be detail-oriented and able to maintain a high level of precision in their work.

They must be safety conscious and willing to adhere to all safety regulations.

Good communication skills are also essential as they often need to collaborate with other workers.

 

What are the daily duties of a Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker?

Typically, a Shipyard Sheet Metal Worker’s daily duties include measuring and marking dimensions and reference lines on metal sheets, drilling holes in metal for screws, bolts, and rivets, installing metal sheets with supportive frameworks, and inspecting structures to ensure metal sheet alignments.

They may also be involved in the maintenance and repair of existing metal structures and fixtures.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the ins and outs of being a shipyard sheet metal worker.

Surprised?

It’s not just about bending metal.

It’s about shaping the maritime industry, one sheet of metal at a time.

With our comprehensive shipyard sheet metal worker job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to make a leap.

But don’t stop just yet.

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards creating precision-focused listings or refining your resume to the highest standard.

Remember:

Each piece of metal contributes to the overall structure.

Let’s construct that future. Together.

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