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Apprentice Boat Rigger Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice Boat Rigger information

What does an Apprentice Boat Rigger do?

An Apprentice Boat Rigger assists experienced riggers in installing, maintaining, and repairing the rigging systems on boats, such as masts, sails, winches, and cables. They learn to work with ropes, wires, and hardware to ensure vessels are safe and ready for sailing. The apprenticeship involves hands-on training, following safety protocols, and gaining knowledge of different types of boats and rigging techniques. Over time, apprentices develop the skills needed to advance to a full Boat Rigger position.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

Apprentice boat riggers typically earn lower wages compared to trades like electrical, plumbing, or HVAC apprenticeships, which tend to have higher pay rates due to demand and skill requirements. The highest paying apprenticeships generally involve skilled trades such as electrical or industrial maintenance, often supplemented by certifications and specialized training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Boat Rigger, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Boat Rigger, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, basic carpentry, and experience with hand and power tools, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with marine hardware, rigging equipment, and safety certifications like OSHA training is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe, accurate rigging installations and efficient collaboration on boat building or repair projects.

How much do trainee riggers earn?

Trainee boat riggers typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, with wages increasing as they gain experience and skills. Entry-level positions may start at minimum wage, but with proper training and certifications, earnings can improve over time.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

For an Apprentice Boat Rigger, age is generally not a barrier to starting an apprenticeship, as these programs often welcome individuals of various ages seeking to develop skills in rigging, boat maintenance, and safety procedures. Many apprenticeships value hands-on experience and a strong work ethic over age, and some programs may even prefer mature learners. It is advisable to check specific program requirements, as some may have age limits or preferred candidate profiles.

What is the difference between Apprentice Boat Rigger vs Marine Rigger?

AspectApprentice Boat RiggerMarine Rigger
CredentialsBasic safety training, on-the-job trainingCertifications in rigging, safety, and sometimes specialized marine certifications
Work EnvironmentShipyards, boatyards, docksShipyards, offshore platforms, marine construction sites
Industry UsageEntry-level, learning role in boat riggingSkilled role involving complex rigging tasks in marine settings

Apprentice Boat Riggers typically perform entry-level rigging tasks under supervision, focusing on learning safety procedures and basic rigging skills. Marine Riggers are more experienced, handling complex rigging operations in marine environments. The main difference lies in skill level, certifications, and job complexity, with apprentices in training and marine riggers being fully skilled professionals.

What are some common challenges faced by an Apprentice Boat Rigger, and how can they be overcome?

As an Apprentice Boat Rigger, one common challenge is adapting to the physical demands of the job, such as lifting heavy equipment and working in confined or awkward spaces. Learning to use specialized tools and understanding complex rigging systems can also be initially daunting. To overcome these challenges, apprentices benefit from hands-on training under experienced riggers, asking questions, and carefully following safety protocols. Building strong communication skills and paying close attention to detail are key to success and progression in this field.

How to become a rigger with no experience?

To become an apprentice boat rigger with no experience, start by gaining basic knowledge of rigging and safety procedures through online courses or reading materials. Seek entry-level positions or apprenticeships that provide on-the-job training, and consider obtaining relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training to improve your prospects. Hands-on experience and a willingness to learn are essential in this skilled trade.
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Captain - Youth Sail Training

Captain - Youth Sail Training

SailFuture

Saint Petersburg, FL

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Are you an accomplished maritime professional with a Yachtmaster Offshore license (or equivalent) who is passionate about education and youth development?

SailFuture is seeking an Expedition Captain to lead rite of passage sailing expeditions with high school age students.

The Captain will participate in all aspects of ship programming in addition to their duty to the vessel. This includes leading shore-side activities, supervising students, teaching coursework, and managing student apprentices.


About the Vessel

The vessel is a 100’ Giorgetti & Magrini ketch-rigged sailing yacht with accommodations for 12 students and 6 staff.

Staff quarters are separate from students and are in shared cabins with a shared bathroom.

About the Schedule

This is a year round position with up to 42 calendar days of PTO from the vessel.

Students will be onboard 30-35 weeks per year. During expeditions, expect a 7-day work week with days off in port when available. The vessel may be chartered during off weeks.

The Captain is responsible for manning the vessel (typically at anchor) in between student expeditions. While students are not onboard, there is a standard 5-day work week.

The vessel does not operate during the Christmas holidays.

The Captain reports to the Director of Maritime Operations and/or CEO. The Captain is responsible for overall vessel operations and program management.

Responsibilities:

  • Overall management and upkeep of the vessel
  • Perform daily, weekly, monthly, and annual maintenance on all systems
  • Diagnose and repair all systems as needed
  • Management and supervision of permanent and rotating program staff
  • Ensure that program Standard Operating Procedures are followed at all times
  • Build strong bonds with each youth through 1:1 and group time
  • Build a strong sense of teamwork amongst youth and staff on the boat
  • Hold all youth and rotating program staff to the highest levels of seamanship
  • Participate in service learning projects and all youth programming throughout the expedition
  • Other duties as assigned


Minimum Qualifications:

  • Yachtmaster Offshore or equivalent
  • U.S. Citizenship is NOT required. This is a Bahamian-flagged vessel.
  • 5+ years as Captain / Master of a sailing vessel
  • Strong knowledge of all yacht systems
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Empathy to relate to the life experiences of the youth SailFuture serves
  • A passion for mentoring and coaching
  • First Aid / CPR
  • Lifeguard certification


Compensation:

  • Salary Depending on Experience
  • 30 days PTO (accrual, eligible to use after 90 days)
  • $1,500 flight budget for PTO travel (return to home port or vacation destination)
  • Additional compensation available for Private Charters
  • $250 monthly health insurance contribution (Company international health insurance through GeoBlue)
  • Up to 6% employer match on 401k
  • Work cell phone with international plan


About Expeditions

SailFuture Expeditions are intentional rites of passage designed to help young people who have experienced trauma catalyze personal growth and self actualization.

Expeditions are typically 6-8weeks in length and take place five times per year.

Students participate in three key programming elements:

1 - Academic Coursework - Facilitated by all crew and instructors through an online platform connected via Starlink.

2 - Maritime internships - Students work in defined crew roles in the following Departments: Bridge, Engineering, Deck, Galley, Interior

3 - Shoreside Experiences - Students participate in service learning projects and legacy shoreside experiences in each port of call

Core Objectives for SailFuture participants:

1. Students will have developed a strong understanding of the various careers available in the maritime industry through in-port experiences with strategic partners

2. Students will have developed measurable employability skills through structured apprenticeship training in defined crew roles

3. Students will have developed transformational relationships with teachers and mentors that are rooted in adventure, play, and shared challenge

4. Students will have developed an expanded worldview through cultural exchanges and service learning projects

5. Students will have identified problematic behaviors and habits and developed coping mechanisms that can be utilized in any setting

6. Students will have utilized 1:1 sessions, written reflections, workshops, and guided discussions to discuss and process trauma.