Shipyard Carpenter 001 at Avail Staffing Company – Norfolk, Virginia

About the Opportunity

Join a team that builds with precision, works with integrity, and values craftsmanship at every level. We are a leading marine and industrial construction firm seeking a skilled Marine Shipwright (Carpenter) to support ship repair, marine construction, and structural restoration projects. From bulkheads and dry docks to interior vessel outfitting, your work will help shape and maintain vital maritime infrastructure across a range of challenging and rewarding environments.

What You’ll Do

• Perform skilled carpentry in shipyard environments, including fabrication and installation of wood, composite, and synthetic materials
• Construct and repair marine structures such as keel blocking, cradles, shoring, cribbing, staging, and other structures.
• Maintain, adjust and repair staging and its associated equipment.
• Layout, manufacture and install temporary decking aboard ships.
• Erect and dismantle staging/scaffolding on dry docked or waterborne ships including staging around the sail, stern or within internal tanks and voids.
• Build shelters and plenums and install temporary blocking.
• Maintain a safe and organized workspace in compliance with OSHA and company protocols

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications:

• 3+ years of carpentry experience in a shipyard, waterfront, or marine construction setting
• Familiarity with treated timber, marine-grade plywood, and structural framing
• Strong working knowledge of layout tools such as levels, squares, measuring tapes, and plumb lines
• Experience using pneumatic tools, impact drivers, and chain hoists
• Basic knowledge of pile installation, dock framing, and form setup
• Must be able to lift 50+ lbs, climb ladders, work at heights, and perform tasks in confined or elevated spaces
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug test and background screening

Bonus Skills (Preferred):

• Experienced in and able to erect, maintain, and remove pipe staging and related life rails, platforms and accesses.
• Knowledge of NAVSEA specifications or military shipbuilding standards
• OSHA 10 or 30 Maritime Certification
• Familiarity with fiberglass or composite material installations

Who You Are

You’re someone who thrives in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. You take pride in doing the job right the first time, whether installing a bulkhead, framing an interior cabin, or fitting a new seawall. You adapt quickly, think critically, and bring an old-school work ethic to every task. You respect the risks of the job and prioritize safety as much as performance.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed outdoors and aboard vessels in varying weather conditions
• May involve confined space entry, overhead work, climbing, and extended periods of standing
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times on job site