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Apprentice Boat Rigger Jobs in Massachusetts (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 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.

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.

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.

How to become a boat rigger?

To become a boat rigger, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and gain experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training. Skills in rigging, knot tying, and familiarity with marine hardware are essential, and some employers may prefer candidates with certifications in marine safety or rigging techniques.

How to become an apprentice boat rigger with no experience?

To become an apprentice boat rigger, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic knowledge of tools and mechanical systems. Entry-level positions often provide on-the-job training, and developing skills in rigging, safety procedures, and boat maintenance can improve your chances of starting in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Boat Rigger jobs in Massachusetts?

For Apprentice Boat Rigger jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Boat Rigger jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Boat Rigger jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Apprentice Boat Rigger jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Apprentice Boat Rigger job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Boat Rigger job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Marine Exploratory Apprenticeship

Safe Harbor Marinas

Vineyard Haven, MA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Safe Harbor Marinas rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

151st of 177 rated vehicle equipment hire


Job description

Safe Harbor Marinas, LLC (SHM) is the largest owner and operator of marinas in the world. As a fast-growing company, SHM cultivates a team dynamic of passionate individuals led by the sharpest minds in the industry in order to serve the vibrant boating community that encompasses the SHM network. SHM teammates are committed to thinking critically, providing outstanding service and building relationships with all whom we serve. SHM offers professional education and training opportunities and the chance to work with - and learn from - highly experienced marina professionals. In addition, SHM offers eligible employees benefits such as:

  • Full Benefits Package Including 401(k) Plan
  • Orthodontic Coverage
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Fertility Assistance
  • Relocation Opportunities
  • Paid Uniforms
  • Boating Discounts
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Tool Repurchasing Program
  • ABYC Training

Technician apprentices are committed to working under the observation of a SHM Teammate building basic skills and taking on additional tasks and responsibilities as their skills advance. The Apprentice will learn how to inspect, maintain, and repair boats of all kinds. Using diagnostic equipment, test and repair boat engines, hulls, propellers, rigging, masts, sails, and navigational equipment. They also install and test sanitation and refrigeration systems, electrical systems, steering gear, and accessories.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Apprentices will rotate through various specialty services and can expect to learn and assist in performing skills specific to moving equipment
  • Assist with inspecting, maintaining, and repairing boats of all kinds
  • Learn how to utilize diagnostic equipment to test and repair boat engines, hulls, propellers, rigging, masts, sails, and navigational equipment
  • Assist installing and testing sanitation and refrigeration systems, electrical systems, steering gear, and accessories
  • Learn how to troubleshoot, test, repair, replace, remove and install vessel systems and components
  • Conduct thorough assessment prior to starting a job including; acknowledging the budgeted time and time frame for completion, proving the system and the element requiring service, sourcing parts if required
  • Willingness to learn knowledge of marine systems including electrical, plumbing & water systems
  • Troubleshoot, repair, and install vessel systems and components including but not limited to: electrical, electronics, HVAC, plumbing & water systems (fresh, salt, and waste), gas and diesel engines
  • Assign parts and purchases to the appropriate vessels/tickets
  • Availability to work overtime in order to meet deadlines

Safety and Environmental Responsibilities

  • Follow SHM Safety and Environmental rules and complete required related training.
  • Wear proper personal protective equipment (may include safety glasses, gloves, life jackets and/or hard hats) as required for the task or work area.
  • Report all accidents, injuries, spills and near misses immediately.

Technical and Physical Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Technical school training preferred
  • ABYC and/or manufacturer certifications preferred
  • Ability to ascend and descend a ladder
  • Ability to work in confined spaces
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds
  • Basic boat handling skills preferred
  • Knowledge of both gas and diesel engines preferred
  • Any skills considered standard that an Apprentice Technician should possess

Minimum Soft Skills Qualifications

  • Eagerness to engage in a growing, fast paced, and industry-leading company
  • Consistently treats others with dignity and respect
  • Genuinely serves others with humility and a positive attitude
  • Frequently demonstrates a bias toward action
  • Always communicates effectively and courteously with fellow teammates and members
  • Continuously follows policies and procedures while seeking out new and better ways of accomplishing duties
  • Shows resolve and overcomes difficulties in a positive and productive manner
  • Gladly provides responsive, and high level of service to our teammates and members
  • Eagerly puts forth the extra effort to accomplish duties
  • Adapts quickly and efficiently to changing priorities in order to meet teammate or member needs

The Company

Safe Harbor Marinas provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applications for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Safe Harbor complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. The policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.Additional disclosures available at https://shmarinas.com/hr-disclosures/.


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