Become a Woodcrafter for the US Navy at Norfolk Naval Shipyard
Are you a master craftsman looking for a career that offers both stability and a sense of profound purpose? The United States Navy is currently recruiting for a Woodcrafter position at the historic Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia. This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical skills in a high-stakes, industrial environment where your workmanship directly contributes to the mission of the Department of the Navy.
Job Responsibilities
As a Woodcrafter, your daily tasks will involve the heavy-duty application of woodworking trade skills in a maritime context. Your core duties will include:
- Fabrication and Repair: Building, modifying, and installing wooden and composite components such as decking, foundations, bulkheads, and shipboard cabinetry.
- Blueprint Interpretation: Translating complex engineering sketches and military specifications into precise layouts.
- Tool Operation: Safely operating high-capacity woodworking machinery including bandsaws, jointer-planers, and ship angling saws.
- Precision Assembly: Ensuring all components meet strict naval configuration and fit requirements.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must demonstrate the skill level required to work with minimal supervision. Your qualifications will be judged based on your ability to perform the work rather than just the number of years spent in the trade.
| Requirement Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Core Competency | Ability to work independently with minimal supervision |
| Technical Skill | Blueprint reading and layout precision |
| Equipment Proficiency | Safe operation of industrial saws and drill presses |
| Documentation | Submission of a clear, 2-page resume |
Salary Overview
This position is compensated under the Federal Wage System (WG-10). The current pay scale for this position ranges from $32.07 to $37.41 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of the Navy enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Access to world-class professional training and career development programs.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume is formatted specifically for federal hiring. Use the USAJOBS resume builder, as it ensures all required fields—such as hours per week and specific dates of employment—are clearly captured. Ensure you attach any relevant certifications or performance awards to bolster your application.
Serving as a Woodcrafter at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard is more than just a job; it is a vital contribution to national defense. If you are ready to apply your technical skills in a challenging and rewarding environment, submit your application package before the deadline to be considered for this essential role.
Why This Woodcrafter Job Matters
Transform raw materials into precision-engineered naval components at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard.
Woodcrafter Job Overview
The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is currently seeking a skilled Woodcrafter to join the Preservation Shop 970 within the Production Resources Department. In this critical role, you will play a direct part in maintaining the structural integrity and functionality of naval vessels and facilities by fabricating, repairing, and installing wooden and composite components. If you possess a sharp eye for detail and the technical expertise to translate complex blueprints into finished installations, we invite you to contribute your talents to a mission that safeguards our national freedoms.
Requirements for Woodcrafter
- Ability to perform job duties without more than normal supervision.
- Proficiency in interpreting and working from blueprints, sketches, and military specifications.
- Demonstrated ability to construct items using standard woodworking trade methods.
- Competence in setting up and adjusting machinery such as bandsaws, ripsaws, and drill presses.
- Must be able to successfully pass a security clearance background check at the Secret level.
- Submission of a complete application package including a resume restricted to a maximum of two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Woodcrafter
- Professional experience in a shipyard or heavy industrial woodcrafting environment.
- Experience creating complex templates for multi-trade usage.
- Knowledge of composite material fabrication alongside traditional woodcrafting.
- Active participation in professional trade organizations related to carpentry or woodworking.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Retirement savings plans including TSP (Thrift Savings Plan)
- ✓Professional development and technical training opportunities
- ✓Job security within the Department of the Navy
💡 How to Apply Woodcrafter Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Woodcrafter Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Draft a concise, two-page resume highlighting your specific woodworking accomplishments.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, such as performance appraisals or veterans' preference proof.
- Review your application for accuracy and submit before the August 17, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields for federal employment are present.
- Clearly define the start and end dates (Month/Year) for every job listed on your resume.
- If claiming veterans' preference, ensure your DD-214 clearly displays character of service.
- Double-check your resume file size and format to ensure it remains under the two-page limit.
- Review your status online frequently after submission to ensure all documents were successfully processed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this position?
You will be fabricating, modifying, and repairing wooden and composite components for naval ships and facilities, ranging from cabinetry to structural bulkheads.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
Can I submit more than two pages for my resume?
No, the announcement strictly restricts resumes to a maximum of two pages. Excessive length may result in your application being considered illegible or incomplete.
What is the closing date for this application?
*A: The application window closes on August 17, 2026.*
Do I need to be a veteran to apply?
*A: No, this position is open to various hiring paths including transition, disability, and federal internal candidates.*
Job from United States Fleet Forces Command
The Department of the Navy is committed to maintaining the highest standards of readiness and capability. As a civilian employee within the Production Resources Department, you will work alongside military and civilian professionals dedicated to the repair, maintenance, and modernization of our fleet. The Navy provides not just a job, but a career pathway supported by competitive pay, robust federal benefits, and opportunities for continuous professional growth.