Location: Port Weller (St. Catharines, ON) – reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work Job Type: Full-time, Permanent Pay: Target pay rate of $28-$38 per hour, based on experience 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. 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 . Reporting to the Welding Supervisor, the Welder Fitter is responsible for fabricating, assembling, and welding structural metal components for vessel construction and repair.

The Welder

Fitter operates specialized tools, selects appropriate welding methods, and inspects work for accuracy and quality to support efficient project execution. Conduct pre-use inspections of tools, equipment, and materials to ensure they are in safe working condition. Read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints to determine materials, plan work sequences, and optimize metal cutting and welding efficiency.

Cut, shape, fit,



and assemble structural metal components using various welding and fabrication techniques. Rig, hoist, and transport materials within the worksite, ensuring proper handling and storage. Operate heavy-duty metalworking machines, including brake presses, shears, cutting torches, grinders, drills, and CNC equipment, to cut, bend, punch, and shape metal components.

Maintain accurate records of work performed to support quality control and project documentation.

High School

Diploma or equivalent is preferred. Possess 5+ years of hands-on fitting/welding experience in construction or maintenance settings. Previous experience in ship repair is considered an asset. A valid Red Seal Trade Certification 456A is considered an asset.

Familiarity with layout tools, understanding crane signals, and rigging/hoisting terminology is considered an asset. Comfort and physical capability to work in a rugged shipyard environment, including climbing scaffolding, navigating dry docks, and entering tight, confined vessel spaces daily. 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 Opportunities for professional development and specialized shipyard training On-site parking This job posting is for an active, immediate vacancy. we do not use AI or automated computer systems to screen, assess, or select applicants for this position.

Ontario

Shipyards is an equal chance employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible workplace. 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).

📌 Welding & Welder Fitters (St. Catharines)
🏢 Ontario Shipyards
📍 St. Catharines