Seaspan Vancouver Shipyards
Metal Fabricator / Steel Fabricator — Vancouver Shipyards North Vancouver, BC | Full-Time | Union Role About the Role Seaspan Shipyards is proud to be Canada's long-term, strategic shipbuilding partner for the Canadian Coast Guard and the Royal Canadian Navy. As a direct result of this partnership, Seaspan is delivering on the promise of ships built in Canada, by Canadians — creating meaningful employment and rebuilding a vital domestic industry. Vancouver Shipyards, located in North Vancouver, BC, is one of the most modern shipbuilding facilities in North America and is currently at the centre of some of the most significant naval construction projects in the world. Active programs include two 174-metre Joint Support Ships (JSS) for the Royal Canadian Navy — the largest ships ever built in Canada — an Offshore Oceanographic Science Vessel (OOSV) for the Canadian Coast Guard, and the first heavy Polar Icebreaker to be constructed in Canada in over 50 years. Looking further ahead, several Multi-Purpose Vessels are currently in the design phase, with construction planned in the coming years. These landmark projects represent genuine long-term job stability and a rare opportunity to be part of something historically significant in Canadian manufacturing. Now is an outstanding time to join a talented, diverse, and forward-looking team that is forging the future of Canadian shipbuilding. As a Metal Fabricator, you will perform a wide variety of tasks throughout the ship production process, working in accordance with Seaspan's core values of Safety, Care, Efficiency, and Accountability. This role offers an outstanding opportunity to sharpen your existing skills and develop new expertise — including specialized fabrication and forming techniques specific to the shipbuilding industry — using some of the most advanced equipment and processes available anywhere in the world. Responsibilities Fabricate and form metal structural components including plates, bulkheads, and frames in accordance with technical drawings and specifications Read, interpret, and work from engineering blueprints, structural drawings, and production plans with accuracy and confidence Perform layout work and structural fabrication to required tolerances and quality standards Use jacks, turnbuckles, fairing tools, and other specialized equipment to align and fit structural assemblies Support Grand Block consolidations, applying a thorough understanding of critical ship datums and overall vessel geometry Work safely and effectively in a shipyard construction environment that includes confined spaces, working at heights, physical labour, and varying outdoor weather conditions Uphold and actively promote a strong culture of safety and environmental stewardship at all times Collaborate positively and productively within a team-oriented, multi-trade environment Adapt to rotating shift schedules as operational requirements demand Requirements Red Seal certification in Metal Fabrication is required; candidates with 5+ years of hands-on fabrication experience without certification will also be considered CWB All-Position FCAW Tacking Ticket is preferred ITA Marine Fitter Endorsement is considered a strong asset Minimum 5 years of metal fabrication experience, with demonstrated proficiency in structural fabrication work Proven ability to read and interpret technical blueprints and engineering drawings Hands-on experience with jacks, turnbuckles, fairing tools, and related fabrication equipment Experience with Grand Block consolidations and a solid understanding of ship datums is an advantage Strong written and verbal communication skills in English Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a diverse team environment Willingness and flexibility to work all shifts, including rotating schedules Physical ability to work in a construction environment involving confined spaces, heights, and varying conditions Union & Compliance Information This is a unionized position with the Marine & Shipbuilders — Local 506. By applying, you acknowledge that Seaspan may share your resume with our Union partner, Marine & Shipbuilders — Local 506. Please note: unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted. This position may involve defense articles and/or technical data regulated by the U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the U.S. Arms Export Control Act. In compliance with ITAR, the successful candidate will be subject to a security clearance through the Canadian Controlled Goods Program, as regulated by the Controlled Goods Regulations and the Defence Production Act