Position Title: Welder
Location: St. Catharines, ON - Port Weller
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Compensation: $25 – $35 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 Welding Supervisor, the Welder will be responsible for executing high-quality welds on metal components used in the construction, repair, and maintenance of marine vessels. Working directly inside shops, dry docks, and confined vessel compartments, this role applies designated welding procedures to ensure all structural work meets applicable CWB, marine classification, and company safety and quality standards.
The Welder works from provided technical instructions and welding specifications, maintaining high accuracy and consistency while collaborating closely with fitters and other skilled trades to support efficient and safe project execution. This is a hands-on production role that requires a strong commitment to workplace safety, physical stamina, attention to detail, and a daily presence on the active shipyard floor.
Key Responsibilities
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Conduct pre-use inspections of tools, welding equipment, and materials to ensure they are in safe working condition.
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Weld steel structures using specified welding processes and procedures to ensure all work meets required structural, quality, and safety standards.
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Read and interpret blueprints, fabrication drawings, and welding symbols to accurately identify required weld sizes, types, and locations as per project specifications.
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Maintain accurate records of work performed to support quality control, traceability, and project documentation.
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Demonstrate flexibility to meet deadlines, proactively identifying and addressing potential delays while communicating concerns and proposing solutions to management.
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Collaborate with and assist colleagues to support daily operational needs.
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Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
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Perform other duties as assigned or required to support operations.
Qualifications & Experience
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Safety-first mindset and commitment to following safe work practices.
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4–5 years of hands-on welding experience in construction or maintenance settings; marine experience is considered an asset.
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Previous or current CWB certification is an asset.
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Experience in ship repair is a strong asset.
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Understanding of crane signals and terminology, as well as experience in overhead crane operation, is an asset.
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Valid Ontario 456A Certificate of Qualification and/or Red Seal endorsement is considered an asset.
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Experience in FCAW and SMAW processes is preferred.
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Demonstrate the ability to work independently, follow instructions and welding procedures precisely, and work collaboratively within a team environment with strong attention to detail.
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Comfort and physical capability to work in a rugged shipyard environment, including climbing scaffolding, navigating dry docks, and entering tight or confined vessel spaces daily.
What We Offer
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Competitive compensation based on skills and experience
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Comprehensive health benefits including health, dental, vision, life and disability coverage for you and your dependents
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RRSP matching program and Health Spending Account (HSA)
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Paid vacation time and statutory holidays
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Discounts on safety boots & safety glasses
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Opportunities for professional development and specialized shipyard training
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On-site parking
This job posting is for an active vacancy. Every application is reviewed individually by a member of our 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.
