BIRDPA77673 - Finisher III - BIRD JOHNSON

Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What’s your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it’s the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We’re one of the nation’s leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential. Discover what it’s like to be a part of the Fairbanks Morse Defense team here: https://www.fairbanksmorsedefense.com/careers

Finisher III – Nickel Aluminum Bronze (NiAlBr) & Stainless Steel

Bird Johnson, A Fairbanks Morse Defense Company
📍 Pascagoula, MS

About Bird Johnson

Bird Johnson, a proud Fairbanks Morse Defense company, is a specialized provider of precision manufacturing, repair, overhaul, and shipyard support services for the U.S. Navy and defense maritime industry. Bird Johnson is known for its expertise in valve manufacturing and refurbishment, component machining, metal finishing, and on-site shipyard repair services supporting mission-critical naval propulsion and auxiliary systems.

Our teams work directly in manufacturing facilities and shipyards to ensure fleet readiness, safety, and performance. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to essential naval programs while building a long-term career in defense manufacturing.

Why This Role — Read This Carefully

This is a great company to work for with a tight-knit team of professionals who take pride in their craft and hold themselves to high standards. If you are hardworking, detail-driven, and take real ownership of the quality of your work, you will fit in well here. For the right individual with a strong work ethic and pride in doing things the right way, this can be an excellent long-term career opportunity.

Why Join Bird Johnson / Fairbanks Morse Defense?

We offer a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package, including:

• Competitive pay
• Robust 401(k) plan
• 100% Tuition Reimbursement
• Annual company performance-based bonus
• Stable, long-term defense work
• Career growth and skill development opportunities
• $200 annual safety boot allowance
• Company-provided PPE, including safety glasses, specialized helmets, and uniforms

Position Overview

Bird Johnson is seeking a skilled and motivated Finisher III to support the grinding and finishing of Nickel Aluminum Bronze (NiAlBr) and stainless-steel components used in defense and naval applications. This role is critical to ensure components meet exact quality, tolerance, and performance standards required for military use.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with grinding, rough finishing, excavation, and final finishing/polishing, along with a strong commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork. Flexibility and attention to detail are essential as we meet demanding production schedules and customer requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform grinding, rough finishing, excavation, and final finishing/polishing of Nickel Aluminum Bronze (NiAlBr) and stainless-steel components to meet specifications
• Utilize hand and power tools to achieve precise finishes and tolerances
• Apply and fit edge gauges and cylindrical gauges to required tolerances
• Work collaboratively with production and quality teams to ensure compliance with engineering drawings and customer requirements
• Stand, bend, and work in physically demanding positions for up to 8 hours per shift
• Safely lift and maneuver materials weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Work at height using manlifts, scaffolding, or platforms as required
• Maintain flexibility to work any assigned shift, including nights and weekends
• Travel to local and out-of-state shipyards (including East Coast locations, Florida, and Virginia) for repair and overhaul work
• Obtain and maintain certifications for cranes, forklifts, skid-steers, manlifts, and scissor lifts
• Adhere to all safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized work environment
• Support additional production tasks as needed to meet operational demands

Qualifications & Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship is required and the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
• This role requires access or potential access to Unclassified Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (NOFORN)
• Candidates must provide proof of U.S. citizenship (U.S. Passport, Birth Certificate, or Naturalization Certificate) and attest they do not hold dual citizenship
• High school diploma or GED required; technical or vocational training preferred
• Proven experience grinding and finishing Nickel Aluminum Bronze (NiAlBr) and stainless steel
• Experience working with tight tolerances and precision measurement tools
• Proficiency with hand and power tools with a strong emphasis on safety and quality
• Ability to stand, bend, climb, and work in physically demanding positions for extended periods
• Ability to safely lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to polish and finish components at height from manlift baskets or scaffolding
• Willingness to work flexible shifts and travel as required
• Must meet Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance requirements
• Valid driver’s license required
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality workmanship
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work independently or as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in a defense, foundry, or shipyard environment
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications
• Knowledge of OSHA safety regulations and best industrial practices

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position involves working in a foundry and shipyard environment and may include exposure to noise, dust, vibration, and varying temperatures. Summer conditions can be extremely hot, and employees must be physically capable of holding handheld grinders in tight or confined spaces for extended periods.

• Flame-Resistant Clothing (FRC) is required (long sleeves)
• All PPE is fully provided by the company, including safety glasses, specialized helmets, and uniforms
• Standing, bending, climbing, and working in confined or elevated areas is required
• PPE must be worn at all times to ensure personal safety and compliance

Fairbanks Morse Defense offers a competitive benefits package including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, and 401k retirement plan with employer match.  In addition, we offer paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement. 

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Salary : $200