Mechanical Fitter

Position Title: Mechanical Fitter  (Tail-End)

Location:  St. Catharines, ON – reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work

Job Type:  Full-time, Permanent

Pay:  Target pay rate of $35 – $40 per hour, based on experience

About Ontario Shipyards

Ontario Shipyards operates two premier marine facilities on Lake Ontario: our main fabrication hub in Hamilton and the historic Port Weller Dry Docks on the Welland Canal in St. Catharines. Together, we form the largest Canadian-owned ship repair and refit operation on the Great Lakes. As a trusted partner to the Canadian Coast Guard and major commercial fleets, our combined yards deliver everything from advanced manufacturing to massive vessel life extensions.

The company is embarking on an unprecedented period of growth driven by the opportunities created by Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy. At the same time, the company is executing the Ontario Shipyard Modernization Project (OSMP) which is a multi-million-dollar initiative that is revolutionizing shipyard operations in Ontario and ultimately Canada. Our team takes immense pride in keeping the Great Lakes fleet moving, building and maintaining the giant vessels that drive Canada's economy – where water meets mettle.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Mechanical Supervisor and working with/under FSR’s (Field Service Representatives) of various supply and manufacturer companies, the Mechanical Fitter will disassemble, clean, inspect, repair and reassemble mechanical components on ships, including tail shafts, propellers, rudders, steering systems, bearings, pumps, motors, sea valves, windlasses, davits, cranes, bow/stern thrusters and many other components. Your responsibilities include reading blueprints, precisely fitting parts to ensure proper functionality and compliance with engineering specifications. You will ensure the mechanical systems of the ship operate efficiently and reliably, acting as a skilled mechanic in maintaining optimal ship performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Strict adherence to safety protocols and guidelines for operational safety.
• Conduct pre-use inspections of tools and equipment to ensure they are in safe working condition.
• Conduct daily field level risk assessments to determine safety hazards on the job sites.
• Mechanically fit and install marine hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders, pumps, hoses, and engines, gearboxes, generators, bilge pumps, valves, lazy rods, other various components.
• Service of propulsion systems, steering systems and deck machinery.
• Conduct hydrostatic/pressure tests of tanks and other components.
• Clean, inspect, organize and track parts per task numbers.
• Demonstrate flexibility to meet deadlines, proactively identifying and addressing potential delays while proposing solutions to management.
• Collaborate and assist colleagues with daily operational needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned or requested to support operations.

Qualifications & Experience

• Strong commitment to safety and strict adherence to safety protocols.
• High School Diploma or equivalent (Preferred).
• A valid Red Seal Trade Certification 430M is considered an asset.
• Possess 2+ years of hands-on mechanical fitting experience in construction or maintenance settings.
• Understanding of rigging safety (chain falls/sling inspections) and safe movement/transportation of heavy components.
• Understanding crane signals and terminology is considered an asset.
• Welding and oxy/acetylene cutting competency is considered an asset.
• Previous experience in ship repair is considered an asset.
• Demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail and the ability to follow instructions precisely.
• Must have adequate physical fitness to fulfill demanding tasks with a willingness to work in various weather conditions year-round.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay based on skills and experience
• Comprehensive health benefits including health, dental, vision, life and disability coverage for you and your dependents
• RRSP matching program and Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Paid vacation time and statutory holidays
• Discounts on Safety Boots & Safety Glasses
• Opportunities for professional development and specialized shipyard training
• On-site parking

This job posting is for an active, immediate vacancy. Every application is reviewed individually by a member of our human recruitment team; we do not use AI or automated computer systems to screen, assess, or select applicants for this position.

Ontario Shipyards is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible workplace. We prohibit discrimination and are committed to providing equal employment opportunities in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code. We will provide reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment and selection process, in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please notify Human Resources, and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs.