Launch Your Career as a Machinist at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
Are you a skilled machinist looking for a career that offers both stability and a sense of purpose? The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is currently seeking highly qualified Machinists to join our team. This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical expertise to the maintenance and repair of our nation’s fleet. If you are passionate about precision engineering and want to contribute to national security, this role is for you.
Job Responsibilities
As a Machinist, your primary responsibility is the precision fabrication, modification, and repair of metal and non-metallic components. Daily tasks include:
- Setting up and operating various machine tools.
- Interpreting complex blueprints and technical specifications.
- Performing machine adjustments to account for tool wear.
- Troubleshooting and diagnosing mechanical issues.
Requirements
Success in this role requires a blend of technical skill and high-level problem-solving ability.
| Requirement Type | Expectation |
|---|---|
| Core Skill | Ability to work without more than normal supervision |
| Technical | Ability to interpret blueprints and calculate shop math |
| Safety | Adherence to shipyard ESH and PPE protocols |
| Documentation | 2-page maximum resume submission |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package, with hourly rates ranging from $32.07 to $37.41. This reflects the high level of skill and responsibility required for shipyard operations.
Benefits
Working for the federal government comes with extensive perks. Beyond the competitive hourly wage, you will have access to professional development opportunities, a collaborative environment, and the satisfaction of knowing your work directly supports our Sailors at sea.
Application Tips
- Be Concise: Stick to the 2-page limit for your resume.
- Be Detailed: Ensure your job history includes clear dates and hours worked.
- Verify Everything: Check that all your documents are attached and legible before sending your email to the production address.
The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard offers a stable, challenging, and rewarding environment for experienced machinists. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to make a significant contribution to the Navy’s mission, prepare your application and submit it today.
Why This Machinist Job Matters
Launch your career in precision engineering with the Department of the Navy—where your machining expertise supports national security at the historic Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
Machinist Job Overview
The United States Fleet Forces Command is seeking a skilled Machinist to join our technical team in Portsmouth, Virginia. This role involves operating sophisticated machine tools to fabricate, modify, and repair essential equipment. As a vital member of the shipyard team, you will ensure our fleet remains ready for mission success through precision craftsmanship and expert problem-solving.
Requirements for Machinist
- Ability to work with minimal supervision in a high-stakes industrial environment.
- Comprehensive knowledge of metal and non-metal properties to determine optimal feeds, speeds, and tooling.
- Proficiency in interpreting blueprints and performing complex shop mathematics.
- Experience in troubleshooting, disassembling, and reassembling intricate machinery.
- Ability to manufacture precision parts using hand tools and measurement devices like calipers and micrometers.
- Strict adherence to shipyard safety protocols, ESH regulations, and nuclear/non-nuclear material handling standards.
- Submission of a concise, professional resume (maximum 2 pages).
Preferred Qualifications for Machinist
- Proven background in a shipyard or heavy industrial setting.
- Experience with advanced CNC and manual machine tool operation.
- Active Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.
- Certification in relevant machining or trade-specific disciplines.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly compensation.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and specialized trade training.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
- ✓Access to a stable and mission-driven work environment.
- ✓Career advancement potential within the Department of the Navy.
💡 How to Apply Machinist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Machinist Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly no more than 2 pages in length.
- Ensure your resume includes employer names, dates of employment, hours worked per week, and specific pay/grade details if applicable.
- Gather supporting documentation such as transcripts, certifications, or DD-214 forms if claiming veteran preference.
- Email your completed application package directly to [email protected].
- Verify that all documents are legible and attached before the submission deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements for experience reporting are met.
- Double-check your document attachments—HR will not modify or fix missing information after submission.
- Be specific about your accomplishments and the types of machinery you have operated.
- If you have a Secret clearance, clearly state your eligibility in your resume.
- Redact sensitive personal information like SSNs from supporting documents before emailing to keep your data secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent job opening?
This is a public notice flyer used to identify potential candidates for anticipated vacancies. It does not guarantee an immediate opening, but positions may be filled from this list.
What is the page limit for the resume?
Resumes are strictly limited to 2 pages. Applications exceeding this limit or those that are illegible will not be considered.
How do I apply for this position?
You must submit your resume and supporting documents via email to [email protected]. Applications submitted directly through other channels may not be processed.
Do I need a secret clearance?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance.
Can I apply through USAJOBS?
This flyer requires you to submit your materials via the email address provided in the job notice.
Job from United States Fleet Forces Command
The United States Fleet Forces Command, under the Department of the Navy, operates the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. This facility is critical to the readiness of the U.S. Navy, providing essential repair and modernization services. Our civilian employees are the backbone of our shipyard, performing vital tasks that ensure our vessels can perform their missions around the globe.