Journeyman Mechanic - Secret Clearance

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• Salary range - 80,000 - 87,000 Per Year
• Clearance required - DOD Secret Clearance is required for this position.
• Must Have - Candidate must have prior experience with marine engines or heavy-duty port equipment
• Location - Port Hueneme CA

Job Summary

As a Journeyman Mechanic at Naval Base Ventura County (Port Hueneme), you will maintain and repair marine vessels and dockside equipment to ensure safe, reliable operations. You will use your mechanical expertise to troubleshoot engines, hydraulic systems, and other components, performing inspections and preventive maintenance as needed. This full-time contract position (non-union) calls for a mid-career technician (35 years experience) who can work with minimal supervision. U.S. citizenship and Secret security clearance are required.

Responsibilities

• Perform maintenance and repairs: Conduct scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on boats, shore craft, forklifts, cranes, and other mechanical equipment so that all machinery remains safe and operational.
• Troubleshoot issues: Diagnose mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical problems using diagnostic tools; determine the best repair solutions.
• Replace and repair components: Disassemble and rebuild engines, transmissions, gearboxes, pumps, and related equipment; fabricate or weld parts (MIG, TIG, arc) as needed.
• Inspections and safety: Inspect vehicles and equipment for wear, leaks, or safety hazards; ensure all work meets safety and environmental regulations. Adhere to lockout/tagout and other safety protocols, wearing required PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, etc.).
• Documentation: Keep clear maintenance records and repair logs to track work done and parts used.
• Team coordination: Collaborate with colleagues and supervisors to prioritize tasks and meet operational schedules. Provide guidance to apprentices or less-experienced crew when appropriate.

Qualifications & Skills

• Education/Training: High school diploma or equivalent. Completion of a mechanical apprenticeship, technical school, or vocational training in diesel/industrial mechanics.
• Experience: 35 years of hands-on experience repairing and maintaining complex machinery
• Prior experience with marine engines or heavy-duty port equipment
• Technical skills: Strong knowledge of diesel and gasoline engines, hydraulic systems, powertrains (transmissions, differentials), and related machinery. Proficient with hand tools, power tools, meters, and common diagnostic instruments.
• Reading skills: Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and blueprints.
• Drivers license: Valid California drivers license required.
• Physical ability: Capable of lifting ~50 lbs regularly, climbing ladders, and working in confined or elevated spaces. Able to work indoors and outdoors in variable conditions.
• Security: U.S. citizenship and a Secret security clearance are required.
• Soft skills: Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills. Ability to work independently under minimal supervision.

Desired Skills (Preferred)

• Hands-on experience with small boat or auxiliary engines, and marine electrical systems.
• Certification: Certified Journeyman Mechanic (or equivalent state/industry license). Additional certifications (ASE, welding, EPA, etc.) are a plus.
• Welding/Fabrication: Basic welding (MIG/TIG/Arc) and metal fabrication skills preferred.
• Familiarity with shore-based equipment (e.g. container cranes, winches, dockside generators).
• Forklift certification or experience driving/maintaining lift equipment.
• Knowledge of regulatory standards (environmental, OSHA) in a government or industrial setting.

DAWSON is an Equal Opportunity/VEVRAA federal contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

DAWSON offers a best-in-class benefits program including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k) program with employer match; paid vacation and sick leave; employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance; an Employee Assistance Program; and a flexible work environment. Additionally, employees can choose from several voluntary benefits including critical illness coverage; accident insurance; identity theft coverage; pet insurance, and more.

DAWSON gives preference to internal candidates. If no internal candidate meets our qualifications, external candidates will be given consideration.