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Boat Rigger Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Tankerman

Houston, TX

$60K/yr

... the boat and barges, and help with the training of newly hired employees aspiring to become Tankerman. * The Tankerman must be able to handle lines and rigging during tow building, locking, and ...

Tankerman

Houston, TX · On-site

$60K/yr

... the boat and barges, and help with the training of newly hired employees aspiring to become Tankerman. * The Tankerman must be able to handle lines and rigging during tow building, locking, and ...

Securing barges together (laying rigging) * Securing boat to barges (facing boat up) * Line handling * General boat cleaning * Minor engine room work (oil changes, greasing, etc.) * Painting

Tankerman

Houston, TX · On-site

$23.75 - $27.75/hr

... the boat and barges, and help with the training of newly hired employees aspiring to become Tankerman. * The Tankerman must be able to handle lines and rigging during tow building, locking, and ...

Securing barges together (laying rigging) * Securing boat to barges (facing boat up) * Line handling * General boat cleaning * Minor engine room work (oil changes, greasing, etc.) * Painting

Securing barges together (laying rigging) * Securing boat to barges (facing boat up) * Line handling * General boat cleaning * Minor engine room work (oil changes, greasing, etc.) * Painting

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Boat Rigger information

See Texas salary details

$13

$24

$34

How much do boat rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat rigger in Texas is $24.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.49 and $27.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a sailboat rigger make?

Sailboat riggers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized knowledge of rigging systems may command higher wages, especially in busy maritime or boatyard environments.

How much are riggers paid?

Boat riggers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled riggers with specialized knowledge of rigging systems and safety protocols may earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for maritime services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Boat Rigger position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boat Rigger, you need a solid understanding of boat construction, mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of rigging systems, typically gained through hands-on experience or vocational training. Familiarity with specialized tools such as hoists, winches, hydraulic crimpers, and potentially safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective problem-solving are valuable soft skills in this position. These abilities are crucial for ensuring rigging jobs are completed safely, accurately, and efficiently to maintain high standards of marine safety and vessel performance.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigging jobs are often in specialized sectors such as offshore oil and gas, aerospace, or heavy industrial construction, where riggers with advanced certifications and extensive experience can earn higher wages. Supervisory or lead riggers typically receive higher pay due to increased responsibilities. Salaries can vary based on location, industry, and skill level, with some senior riggers earning over $70,000 annually.

What do riggers do on a boat?

Boat riggers install, repair, and maintain the rigging systems that support sails, masts, and other equipment on boats. They work with ropes, cables, pulleys, and hardware, often using hand tools and safety gear in marine environments. Riggers need knowledge of sailing and rigging techniques to ensure the vessel's safety and performance.

What is a Boat Rigger job?

A Boat Rigger is responsible for installing, inspecting, and maintaining the rigging and equipment on boats, including masts, sails, winches, and other hardware. They ensure that all components are securely fitted and functioning properly for safety and performance. Boat Riggers may also run electrical wiring, install steering systems, and test mechanical components. This job requires technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of different boat types and rigging systems.

What are some common challenges boat riggers face on the job?

Boat riggers often work in varied environments that may include tight quarters, outdoor conditions, and sometimes at heights, which can present physical challenges. They must frequently troubleshoot unexpected issues with rigging components or adapt to last-minute design changes, requiring strong technical problem-solving skills. Coordinating closely with boat builders, electricians, and other specialists is common, making teamwork and clear communication essential. This dynamic environment means boat riggers need to remain adaptable and safety-conscious to ensure successful project outcomes.

What are popular job titles related to Boat Rigger jobs in Texas? For Boat Rigger jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Boat Rigger jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Boat Rigger jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Boat Rigger jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Boat Rigger job openings:
Fleet Boat Deckhand- Freeport, TX

Fleet Boat Deckhand- Freeport, TX

Kirby Corporation

Channelview, TX

$155/day

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Overview

***You MUST live within 45 minutes of Freeport, TX to be eligible for this position***

Deckhands build tows by handling lines and cables to tie/untie barges and boats. Deckhands also perform scheduled vessel maintenance for tools and equipment, and perform general housekeeping duties as assigned by their supervisor.

 

***This is a deckhand position working on a fleet boat. This position does not follow the Tankerman Career Path.***

Those interested in working on a "live aboard" vessel that do not live within 45 minutes of Freeport area, should apply to the "Entry Level Inland Deckhand" or "Intermediate & Experienced Inland Deckhand" Position.

Responsibilities

Deckhands will adhere to company safety policy and procedures, environmental rules and governmental regulation.

Deckhands work under the supervision of the Master or designate.

Basic Functions:

  • Attaches and removes line and cables to and from the vessel, barges, docks and locks. This involves carrying coiled lines, ratchets, rigging, cables or other equipment from line lockers, deck lockers, or Ability to use fire fighting equipment and spill containment equipment.
  • Cables to attachment sites, making attachments using manual or power winches to tighten lines or cables, and monitoring and adjusting lines and tension during towing, loading, discharging, locking or docking.
  • Unties and reties lines 4 to 8 times during loading and discharging in order to adjust for the changing height of the barge, relative to the height of other barges, the dock and the vessel.
  • Maintains vessel by performing scheduled maintenance and housekeeping such as sweeping, sougeing, chipping rusted metal, priming and painting.
  • Makes minor repairs such as tightening bolts, replacing fluid and air lines, hanging light bulbs, replacing equipment such as cables, winches, pumps and fan belts.
  • Uses tools such as hammers, fire axes, ratchets, hand winches, stripping pumps, needle guns and grinders with two hands.
  • Qualifications

    WORK CONDITIONS

    • The schedule is either 14 days on/7 days off. 12 Hours shifts working days and nights.
    • Must be able to work in inclement weather outdoor, heat and cold.
    • Must be willing and able to attend paid required training on and off scheduled work time.
    • Must have reliable transportation and be able to drive to/from vessel location.

    COMPENSATION

    • $155/DAY, PLUS BENEFITS (MEDICAL/DENTAL/VISION/401K, ETC.)

    QUALIFICATIONS, COMPETENCIES AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

    • Valid TWIC card must be in hand prior to applying. Need a TWIC card? Apply here.
    • Must possess a valid driver's license
    • Must not have a DWI or DUI in the last three years
    • Must not have more than 2 moving driving violations in the last 3 years
    • Must be able to satisfy all United States Coast Guard physical requirements (CG-719K) and as found in 46 CFR Part 10
    • Must be able to satisfy all United States Coast Guard Chemical Drug Testing Programs for Vessel Personnel, as found in 46 CFR Part 10
    • Must be able to satisfy all United States Coast Guard physical requirements
    • Must be able to pass company requirements of 46 CFR Part 197 Subpart C Benzene
    • Valid state issued birth certificate required.
    • Valid social security card required
    • Must be 18 years of age
    • Cannot have any criminal charges pending or be on probation
    • Must be able to read and write English
    • Ability to understand written and verbal orders
    • Must not be color blind

    PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

    • Walk - Must be able to walk 2-3 miles per day
    • Step - Must be able to step 2ft vertical and 2ft horizontal
    • Reach - Must be able to extend arms fully throughout a normal range of motion both in a horizontal and vertical plane (i.e., throwing and catching lines)
    • Climb - Must be able to climb a 90 degree vertical ladder 25-30 feet, and carry weight while climbing
    • Grip/Hold/Pull - Must be able to grip, hold and pull 50lbs
    • Lift - Must be able to lift 75lbs.
    • Lift & Carry - Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs for approximately 350 feet
    • Vision - Color vision and eyesight must be sufficient to pass an eye test as required to obtain a merchant mariners credential. This requires an uncorrected vision of at least 20/200 in each eye corrected to 20/40 in each eye
    • Hearing - Must meet minimum standards, as per USCG requirements
    • Speech - Must be able to verbally communicate in the English language both in delivery and ability to be understood using handheld radios or other devices, as required
    • Smell - Must possess a sense of smell to be able to detect the presence of potentially dangerous vapors
    • Pulmonary Functions - Must pass a pulmonary function test with a minimum score of 75%
    • General - Must be able to enter and exit hatches/doorways quickly in case of emergency.
    • Equipment - Must be able to wear a negative or positive pressure respirator, PVC foul weather gear, personal flotation device, rubber gloves and boots. 
    • Ability to use firefighting / spill containment equipment
    Employment Type: OTHER