Green Card Sheet Metal Mechanic Jobs
Sheet Metal Mechanic jobs with green card sponsorship are available through the EB-3 skilled worker category, which requires at least two years of verified experience. Employers file PERM labor certification with the Department of Labor before sponsoring your I-140, putting you on the path to lawful permanent residence.
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Get Access To All JobsNOTICE: Before applying, we strongly recommend you watch our Realistic Job Preview video linked below. This video is designed to give you an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at what it’s truly like to work in marine construction—from the physical demands and outdoor conditions to the day-to-day expectations of the role. By taking a few minutes to watch, you’ll gain valuable insight, helping you make a more informed decision about whether this opportunity aligns with your interests, strengths, and career goals.
Watch the Realistic Job Preview video (Spanish): https://vimeo.com/1167508721/a12f7e59d7
Watch the Realistic Job Preview video (English): https://vimeo.com/1167732002/d467b9834f
Company Overview
Performance Contracting Group is a national employee-owned specialty contractor that offers quality services and products to the commercial, industrial, and non-residential construction markets. We are committed to recruiting, developing, and advancing employees from a diversity of backgrounds and experiences, as well as supporting a culture of safety and inclusiveness that allows you to contribute to your fullest potential. We place high value on training and professional development, encouraging you to broaden and strengthen your unique skill sets so you can fully realize your potential.
Job Description
PCI Marine is seeking experienced habitability and joiner (HAB) Journeymen to join our West Coast Marine operations supporting Navy and Commercial ship repair. The Journeyman Sheet Metal Mechanic is an experienced, hands-on craft professional who independently lays out and installs shipboard sheet metal and joiner work in berthing, sanitary, galley and other living spaces: joiner panels, honeycomb panels, false overheads, ventilation ductwork and related HAB components. The emphasis is field installation, with sheet metal modified and fitted in place where shipboard conditions call for it. The position requires journeyman-level accuracy, productivity and problem-solving in congested shipboard spaces.
Requirements
Ability to read and interpret technical documents, including but not limited to:
- Perform precise field measurements, layout and fit-up from reference lines, elevations and drawings; verify dimensions before cutting material.
Ability to install and assemble:
- Joiner panels: metal joiner bulkhead panels, joiner doors and frames, trim, channels and closure pieces, set plumb, aligned and secured to the joiner system drawing.
- Honeycomb panels: aluminum and Nomex-core honeycomb bulkhead and overhead panels, including cutting to size, edge closures, inserts and fastening to the drawing and manufacturer requirements.
- False overheads: overhead panels, hangers, support framing and trim, with removable access panels located at valves, cable and vent components above.
- Ventilation: rectangular and round duct, fittings, hangers, brackets, dampers, access doors, terminals and flashing.
- HAB metal components: closure plates, light-gauge panels, flashing and custom field pieces.
Lay out panel and overhead installations around existing piping, cable, ventilation and lighting while keeping required access and clearances.
Modify and field-fit ductwork and sheet metal where existing conditions differ from the drawings, including simple flat patterns for field pieces.
Cut, notch, drill, fasten and seal sheet metal and panel materials using appropriate field methods and tooling.
Identify drawing conflicts and interferences with structure, piping, electrical equipment and other systems; bring proposed field resolutions to the foreman or project team for approval before deviating from approved requirements.
Understand dimensional tolerances, attachment methods and workmanship expectations; avoid damage to adjacent ship systems and finishes.
Check completed work for alignment, panel joints, support spacing, secure fastening, clearance, accessibility and readiness for inspection.
Safely use the required hand tools, power tools, access equipment and material-handling devices within training and authorization.
Coordinate day-to-day installation interfaces with other crafts and report material shortages, access restrictions, rework and progress to the assigned foreman.
Maintain a clean work area, protect surrounding equipment, observe foreign material exclusion controls and follow established shipboard safety procedures.
Able to obtain and maintain the shipyard and military base access required for assigned projects.
Travel to other job sites, up and down the West Coast, as assigned.
This position is safety sensitive.
Preferred
- Experience with DDG-class or other U.S. Navy berthing, sanitary and ventilation installations.
- Experience installing NAVSEA-accepted joiner and honeycomb panel systems.
- Familiarity with NAVSEA Standard Items, shipboard inspection processes and applicable trade workmanship requirements.
- Working knowledge of shop equipment such as brakes, shears and rolls for field pieces.
- Familiarity with ventilation air-flow testing and balancing support activities.
Physical Requirements
- Must be physically capable of performing the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Lift up to 50 lbs and carry a personal tool bag of 20–30 lbs.
- Stand, balance, walk and climb ladders and staircases of varying sizes for extended periods.
- Kneel, crouch, bend and reach above shoulder height or out in front.
- Work at heights, overhead and in confined spaces, including extended overhead work on false overheads.
- Wear required personal protective equipment, including respiratory protection where required (subject to fit testing and medical clearance).
Compensation and Benefits
Pay range:
PCI offers a competitive benefits package; details are provided during the hiring process.
PCG provides equal employment and affirmative action opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.
PCG is a background screening, drug-free workplace. In accordance with the provisions of Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.), Title 50, Chapter 9, PCG’s Drug-Free Workplace Program includes drug and alcohol testing as part of the hiring process and throughout employment, as applicable.
Please note this job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
NOTICE: Before applying, we strongly recommend you watch our Realistic Job Preview video linked below. This video is designed to give you an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at what it’s truly like to work in marine construction—from the physical demands and outdoor conditions to the day-to-day expectations of the role. By taking a few minutes to watch, you’ll gain valuable insight, helping you make a more informed decision about whether this opportunity aligns with your interests, strengths, and career goals.
Watch the Realistic Job Preview video (Spanish): https://vimeo.com/1167508721/a12f7e59d7
Watch the Realistic Job Preview video (English): https://vimeo.com/1167732002/d467b9834f
Company Overview
Performance Contracting Group is a national employee-owned specialty contractor that offers quality services and products to the commercial, industrial, and non-residential construction markets. We are committed to recruiting, developing, and advancing employees from a diversity of backgrounds and experiences, as well as supporting a culture of safety and inclusiveness that allows you to contribute to your fullest potential. We place high value on training and professional development, encouraging you to broaden and strengthen your unique skill sets so you can fully realize your potential.
Job Description
PCI Marine is seeking experienced habitability and joiner (HAB) Journeymen to join our West Coast Marine operations supporting Navy and Commercial ship repair. The Journeyman Sheet Metal Mechanic is an experienced, hands-on craft professional who independently lays out and installs shipboard sheet metal and joiner work in berthing, sanitary, galley and other living spaces: joiner panels, honeycomb panels, false overheads, ventilation ductwork and related HAB components. The emphasis is field installation, with sheet metal modified and fitted in place where shipboard conditions call for it. The position requires journeyman-level accuracy, productivity and problem-solving in congested shipboard spaces.
Requirements
Ability to read and interpret technical documents, including but not limited to:
- Perform precise field measurements, layout and fit-up from reference lines, elevations and drawings; verify dimensions before cutting material.
Ability to install and assemble:
- Joiner panels: metal joiner bulkhead panels, joiner doors and frames, trim, channels and closure pieces, set plumb, aligned and secured to the joiner system drawing.
- Honeycomb panels: aluminum and Nomex-core honeycomb bulkhead and overhead panels, including cutting to size, edge closures, inserts and fastening to the drawing and manufacturer requirements.
- False overheads: overhead panels, hangers, support framing and trim, with removable access panels located at valves, cable and vent components above.
- Ventilation: rectangular and round duct, fittings, hangers, brackets, dampers, access doors, terminals and flashing.
- HAB metal components: closure plates, light-gauge panels, flashing and custom field pieces.
Lay out panel and overhead installations around existing piping, cable, ventilation and lighting while keeping required access and clearances.
Modify and field-fit ductwork and sheet metal where existing conditions differ from the drawings, including simple flat patterns for field pieces.
Cut, notch, drill, fasten and seal sheet metal and panel materials using appropriate field methods and tooling.
Identify drawing conflicts and interferences with structure, piping, electrical equipment and other systems; bring proposed field resolutions to the foreman or project team for approval before deviating from approved requirements.
Understand dimensional tolerances, attachment methods and workmanship expectations; avoid damage to adjacent ship systems and finishes.
Check completed work for alignment, panel joints, support spacing, secure fastening, clearance, accessibility and readiness for inspection.
Safely use the required hand tools, power tools, access equipment and material-handling devices within training and authorization.
Coordinate day-to-day installation interfaces with other crafts and report material shortages, access restrictions, rework and progress to the assigned foreman.
Maintain a clean work area, protect surrounding equipment, observe foreign material exclusion controls and follow established shipboard safety procedures.
Able to obtain and maintain the shipyard and military base access required for assigned projects.
Travel to other job sites, up and down the West Coast, as assigned.
This position is safety sensitive.
Preferred
- Experience with DDG-class or other U.S. Navy berthing, sanitary and ventilation installations.
- Experience installing NAVSEA-accepted joiner and honeycomb panel systems.
- Familiarity with NAVSEA Standard Items, shipboard inspection processes and applicable trade workmanship requirements.
- Working knowledge of shop equipment such as brakes, shears and rolls for field pieces.
- Familiarity with ventilation air-flow testing and balancing support activities.
Physical Requirements
- Must be physically capable of performing the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Lift up to 50 lbs and carry a personal tool bag of 20–30 lbs.
- Stand, balance, walk and climb ladders and staircases of varying sizes for extended periods.
- Kneel, crouch, bend and reach above shoulder height or out in front.
- Work at heights, overhead and in confined spaces, including extended overhead work on false overheads.
- Wear required personal protective equipment, including respiratory protection where required (subject to fit testing and medical clearance).
Compensation and Benefits
Pay range:
PCI offers a competitive benefits package; details are provided during the hiring process.
PCG provides equal employment and affirmative action opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.
PCG is a background screening, drug-free workplace. In accordance with the provisions of Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.), Title 50, Chapter 9, PCG’s Drug-Free Workplace Program includes drug and alcohol testing as part of the hiring process and throughout employment, as applicable.
Please note this job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
See all Green Card Sheet Metal Mechanic Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Green Card Sheet Metal Mechanic Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Green Card Sponsorship as a Sheet Metal Mechanic
Document your trade experience precisely
PERM requires your employer to verify at least two years of sheet metal experience matching the job duties exactly. Gather dated employment records, union cards, and project logs now so your sponsor can build a clean recruitment file without delays.
Search employers using Migrate Mate
Find sheet metal employers with active green card sponsorship history by searching Migrate Mate, which lists U.S. employers with verified employment-based filing history, searchable by role and location, so you target companies already familiar with the PERM process.
Prioritize union shops and large contractors
Sheet metal contractors working on federal or commercial construction projects routinely sponsor EB-3 workers because workforce demand is documented and recurring. Shops affiliated with the Sheet Metal Workers union often have established HR processes that support PERM filings.
Check your prevailing wage category early
Use the OFLC Wage Search to find the prevailing wage for your SOC code and work location before accepting an offer. Your employer's offered wage must meet or exceed the DOL-determined level, or the PERM application will be denied.
Understand per-country priority date backlogs
EB-3 green cards have per-country annual limits, so nationals from high-demand countries like India and China can wait years after I-140 approval before a visa number becomes available. Check the monthly Visa Bulletin to track your priority date movement.
Clarify job portability before switching employers
If your I-485 adjustment of status application has been pending at least 180 days, AC21 portability lets you move to a new sheet metal employer in the same or similar occupation without losing your priority date, but confirm the job duties align before resigning.
Green Card Sheet Metal Mechanic: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Sheet Metal Mechanic role qualify for EB-3 green card sponsorship?
Yes. Sheet Metal Mechanic is classified as a skilled worker occupation requiring at least two years of training or experience, which fits squarely within the EB-3 skilled worker category. Your employer must file PERM labor certification with the Department of Labor, complete a prevailing wage determination, and demonstrate through a formal recruitment test that no qualified U.S. worker was available for the position before sponsoring your I-140 petition with USCIS.
How is green card sponsorship different from H-1B sponsorship for this role?
Sheet Metal Mechanic roles typically do not qualify for H-1B visa status because H-1B requires a specialty occupation with a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a directly related field. Green card sponsorship through EB-3 is the correct path: it leads to permanent residence rather than temporary status, involves PERM labor certification filed with DOL rather than an LCA, and has no lottery. The tradeoff is a longer overall timeline and potential priority date waits depending on your country of birth.
How do I find employers willing to sponsor a green card for a Sheet Metal Mechanic?
Search Migrate Mate to identify U.S. employers with verified employment-based sponsorship history in trades and construction roles. Focus on large mechanical contractors, curtain wall specialists, and HVAC fabrication shops that work on long-term commercial or infrastructure projects, since those employers have both the workforce need and the administrative capacity to manage a multi-year PERM process.
What does the PERM recruitment process mean for a Sheet Metal Mechanic position?
Before filing your PERM application, your employer must conduct a formal recruitment test to show no qualified U.S. worker was available for the role. For skilled trades this typically includes job postings, union referrals, and documentation of every applicant considered. The DOL reviews the entire recruitment record, so employers must keep meticulous files. Any procedural error can result in a denial or audit, resetting the clock on your sponsorship.
Can I change employers after my green card process has started?
It depends on where you are in the process. Once your I-485 adjustment of status application has been pending for at least 180 days and your I-140 is approved, AC21 portability lets you move to a new employer in the same or similar occupation without losing your place in the queue. Before that 180-day threshold, changing employers generally requires your new sponsor to restart the PERM and I-140 process, though your original priority date may be transferable if the first I-140 was approved.