Outside Machinist Specialist

The Outside Machinist Specialist is an expert-level technical authority responsible for the most complex, high-precision mechanical operations, alignments, system diagnostics, and NAVSEA-quality inspections. This role handles critical systems such as propulsion plants, deep submergence systems, steering gear, torpedo tubes, and other mission-essential mechanical groups. Specialists mentor all levels of machinists and often coordinate with engineering, QA, and project leadership. Work requires extreme accuracy, physical endurance, and strict adherence to compliance standards.

Expert-Level Technical Duties

• Independently perform all duties expected of an Outside Machinist with no supervision required.

• Set up, align, and operate a wide range of portable machining tools and hand tools used in the trade.

• Use precision measuring instruments—such as calipers, verniers, height/depth gauges, layout tools, tachometers, thermometers, and vibration indicators—and accurately record all readings.

• Review and interpret blueprints, sketches, and technical specifications to guide repair or installation work. 

Mechanical Systems Repair & Overhaul

Work on the disassembly, repair, installation, testing, and inspection of shipboard machinery, including but not limited to:

• Propulsion machinery

• Pumps, valves, and launchers

• Ventilation equipment and discharge machinery

• Steering gear and propulsion plants

• Evaporators, heaters, and condensers

• Torpedo tubes, shutter doors, and antenna mast mechanical groups 

Quality, Documentation & Safety

• .Complete all required documentation, inspections, and equipment testing.

• Maintain strict adherence to safety protocols, quality standards, and cleanliness expectations.

• Ensure work meets NAVSEA and company standards. 

Leadership & Collaboration

• Train, certify, and mentor machinists at all levels (II, III, apprentices).

• Coordinate with engineering, quality assurance, and project management teams.

• Ensure all documentation and testing meets the highest standards of accuracy and compliance

• 10–15+ years of advanced mechanical/machinist experience, ideally including significant time working on complex shipboard mechanical systems.

• Extensive NAVSEA/SUBSAFE-related certifications such as: NAVSEA Hatch Inspector, Electroplating, Deep Submergence Systems SOC MCD A/B/C, SUBSAFE qualification, etc. 

• Proven experience leading critical mechanical operations, precision alignments, inspections, and high complexity troubleshooting.

• Ability to obtain government base access.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret/Confidential clearance.

• Must be a U.S. citizen and not a dual citizen.

• Willingness to travel up to 75% of the year to support mission critical or urgent assignments.

• Ability to work in physically demanding environments including confined spaces, overhead structures, extreme heat/cold, and around moving/vibrating equipment. 

Working Conditions

This position is classified as SHOP/OUTDOORS, which includes:

• Primarily outdoor work during daytime; occasional night work.

•  Frequent exposure to moving and vibrating equipment.

• High humidity (often above 90%) and noise levels over 85 decibels.

• Intense light/glare, airborne dust, fumes, and gases.

• Occasional exposure to open flames, sparks, or hot equipment.

• Frequent work in hot (over 90°F) or cold (below 32°F) environments.

• Potential for distracting or uncomfortable sound levels.

• Stable work