1st Class Gas Free Tech
POSITION SUMMARY:
As a Gas Free Technician at Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc., you will play a crucial role in the maintenance and repair of marine vessels. You will be responsible for the thorough cleaning and preparation of tanks, bilges, voids, and other confined spaces on vessels for inspections, repairs, and maintenance. This role involves working in hazardous environments and requires strict adherence to safety protocols. The Gas Free Technician must be knowledgeable about safe cleaning practices, proper use of equipment, and relevant safety standards to ensure tanks are free of debris, contaminants, and hazardous materials.
The position is located onsite in Norfolk, VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Perform detailed cleaning of tanks, bilges, and other confined spaces aboard vessels, removing sludge, debris, oil, and other contaminants.
- Safely handle and dispose of hazardous materials and waste according to environmental regulations and company policies.
- Safely enter and work within confined spaces while adhering to safety protocols, including atmospheric testing and ventilation to ensure safe working conditions.
- Use specialized cleaning equipment, such as high-pressure water blasters, vacuum systems, and chemical cleaners, to ensure tanks are thoroughly cleaned.
- Follow all safety regulations and procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), gas detection monitors, and lockout/tagout protocols. Ensure compliance with OSHA and EPA standards for confined space entry.
- Prepare tanks for inspections by removing coatings, debris, and hazardous substances, ensuring that the areas meet inspection standards.
- Perform steam out/ flow coat and air test rudders and skegs.
- Maintain accurate records of cleaning activities, including details on materials removed, waste disposal, and safety checks performed.
- Perform routine maintenance and checks on cleaning equipment to ensure it is functioning correctly and efficiently.
- Be prepared to respond quickly to any emergencies, including spills or gas leaks, while maintaining a calm and safety-first approach.
- Collaborate with other tradespeople and departments to complete projects within specified timelines.
- Conduct inspections and quality checks to verify adherence to standards and regulations.
- Effectively perform work on multiple projects concurrently, demonstrating the ability to prioritize tasks and responsibilities successfully.
- Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as needed.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Must have at least 5 years of experience in tank cleaning or working in confined spaces, preferably in a marine or industrial setting; or have graduated from a registered apprenticeship program relevant to the trade.
- Demonstrated proficiency in the use of cleaning equipment, knowledge of hazardous material handling, and experience in confined space entry procedures.
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including working in confined spaces, lifting heavy materials, and working in various environmental conditions.
- Strong understanding of safety protocols related to tank cleaning, hazardous materials, and confined space work.
PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:
- Previous technical training highly preferred.
- Certification in confined space entry, HAZWOPER, or other relevant safety certifications preferred.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:
- Minimal Travel; 10% or less.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
- Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
- May ride ships at sea for extended periods
- Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
- Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
- Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
- While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
- Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
- Frequent use of respirator.
- Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.
Respect, Pride, Truth, Family – These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Pay Range: $22.16 - $28.03
Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate’s relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees’ best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO).
