Cable Technician - San Diego, CA - Performing work at NASSCO
Job Description
This role focuses on installing, pulling, and terminating cables and supporting the mechanical installation of fire protection and electrical systems onboard ships. You will work primarily in a shipyard environment, performing hands-on tasks such as cable pulling, cableway banding, hardwire copper hookups, and general labor to support shipbuilding and ship repair projects. The position is well suited for an entry-level cable puller with foundational electrical experience who is eager to develop skills in marine and shipyard electrical work.
Responsibilities
Pull cable and band cableways to support the installation of fire protection and electrical systems onboard ships.
Pull lead-sheathed electrical cables for electric power systems through ducts by pushing fish tape or rods through ducts, attaching wire, and pulling wire or cable through by hand or with a winch.
Perform hardwire copper hookups on equipment located in accommodation areas of the ship.
Hook up lighting, hardware, junction boxes, connection boxes, power panels, and other electrical components and equipment onboard ships.
Assist with general mechanical modification, installation, and support of fire protection systems as directed.
Install and terminate cables onboard U.S. Navy vessels in accordance with applicable standards and procedures.
Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, electrical schematics, and written technical instructions and manuals.
Create basic working diagrams and circuits to support installation and troubleshooting activities.
Use electrical and electronic measuring instruments, including voltmeters, ammeters, ohmmeters, and power analyzers, to verify proper operation and troubleshoot issues.
Support general labor activities in the shipyard, including light carpentry, basic construction tasks, and other duties related to ship repair and new construction.
Install and run wire, conduit, and low-voltage systems, including systems such as CCTV, lighting, and other shipboard electrical installations.
Assist electricians and electrician helpers as needed in wiring, installation, repair, and ship repair tasks.
Follow all safety procedures and maintain tools and equipment in good working condition.
Bring and maintain required personal tools, ensuring they are secured in a lockable tool box or tool bag.
Essential Skills
Experience pulling electrical cable and working as a cable puller or electrician helper in an electrical, construction, industrial, marine, or Navy environment.
Ability to perform cable installation and termination work onboard ships, including on U.S. Navy vessels.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, electrical schematics, sketches, and written technical instructions and manuals.
Basic understanding of electrical wiring, low-voltage systems, and electrical installation practices.
Proficiency in using electrical measuring instruments such as voltmeters, ammeters, ohmmeters, and power analyzers.
Capability to run wire, install conduit, and support installation of lighting, power panels, junction boxes, and related equipment.
Comfort working in a shipyard or construction-@type environment performing general labor and light carpentry tasks.
Reliability in bringing and using required personal tools, including a lockable heavy-duty tool box or tool bag with padlock, tape measure, heavy-duty screwdriver, diagonal cutter, cable cutter, and flashlight.
Strong attention to detail and ability to follow technical directions accurately.
Willingness to work in a hands-on role that involves physical tasks such as pulling cable, carrying tools, and working in and around ship structures.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Entry-level cable puller, ideally with some exposure to ship repair or shipbuilding environments.
At least 3 months of electrical experience in the shipbuilding industry is a plus, but candidates with electrical experience in industrial, construction, Navy, or similar settings will be considered.
Electrical trade school experience is valued and will be considered in place of some hands-on experience.
Experience working in marine, ship repair, or shipyard environments is beneficial.
Familiarity with low-voltage systems, CCTV installation, and shipboard electrical systems is an advantage.
Connector certifications are a plus but not mandatory.
Experience as an electrician improver, electrician helper, or similar role is helpful.
Ability to perform basic carpentry or light carpentry tasks in support of ship repair and installation work.
Comfort reading and working from construction drawings and installation schematics.
Strong work ethic and desire to grow into more advanced electrical and marine installation responsibilities over time.
Why Work Here?
You will join a company that values long-term career growth and offers a clear path from contract to permanent employment for strong performers, with many individuals having progressed into supervisory roles over time. The organization promotes a supportive environment where entry-level talent can learn from experienced professionals and build specialized skills in shipbuilding and marine electrical work. The location is easily accessible by public transportation, helping you reduce commuting costs and simplify your daily travel. This is a strong career opportunity for someone seeking stability, advancement, and the chance to develop a meaningful trade in a growing industry.
Work Environment
You will work inside a major shipyard supporting new construction programs, including large vessel contracts. The environment is industrial and fast-paced, with day-to-day activities taking place onboard ships and around active shipbuilding and ship repair operations. You will regularly handle tools, cables, and electrical equipment in confined and open shipboard spaces, often working alongside electricians, helpers, and other trades. The role requires using your own basic hand tools stored in a lockable heavy-duty tool box or tool bag with a padlock. Work hours follow typical shipyard schedules and may occasionally require flexibility to meet project needs. The setting emphasizes safety, teamwork, and adherence to shipyard procedures while offering exposure to modern marine construction practices and equipment.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of San Diego, CA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $20.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 26, 2026.
About Aerotek:
We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry - from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
