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Ship Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RIGGER

Encinitas, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $33.25/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$25.25 - $32.50/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $33.25/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

Almont, CO · On-site

$24 - $31/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$27.38 - $45.79/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

Shipyard Rigger

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Handle lifting, rigging, and movement of heavy shipboard equipment and materials. Responsibilities : * Set up rigging and lifting devices for equipment moves. * Operate cranes, hoists, and rigging ...

RIGGER

Everett, WA

$26.50 - $34.25/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25 - $32.25/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $33.25/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$25 - $32.25/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $33.25/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $33/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA

$25.50 - $33/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $31.75/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

Bremerton, WA

$25.75 - $33.25/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

Kittery, ME

$24.50 - $31.50/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

Escondido, CA · On-site

$25.25 - $32.50/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA

$25.50 - $33/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25.25 - $32.50/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Ship Rigger information

See salary details

$14

$26

$36

How much do ship rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship rigger in the United States is $26.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are ship riggers?

Ship riggers are skilled workers responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing the rigging on ships, such as ropes, cables, and chains that support masts, sails, and other equipment. They ensure that all rigging is safe and functional, which is crucial for the operation and safety of a vessel. Ship riggers may work on both modern and traditional ships, and sometimes assist with loading cargo or moving heavy equipment using hoists and cranes. Their work requires knowledge of knots, splicing, and the mechanical aspects of rigging systems.

What is the difference between Ship Rigger vs Crane Operator?

AspectShip RiggerCrane Operator
CertificationsRigger certification, OSHA safety trainingCrane operator license, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentShipyards, docks, offshore vesselsConstruction sites, ports, industrial settings
Job FocusAssembling, maintaining, and operating rigging equipment for shipsOperating cranes to lift and move heavy materials
Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, offshoreConstruction, logistics, shipping

Both Ship Riggers and Crane Operators work in environments involving heavy lifting and require safety certifications. However, Ship Riggers focus on rigging setup and maintenance for ships and offshore structures, while Crane Operators specialize in operating cranes to move materials in various industries. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much are Riggers paid?

Riggers typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the rigging tasks. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized tools may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or maritime environments.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Ship Rigger during vessel maintenance and repair projects?

Ship Riggers often encounter challenges such as working in confined or elevated spaces, handling heavy and cumbersome rigging equipment, and adapting to changing weather conditions. Safety is a major concern, as the work involves lifting and securing large components using ropes, cables, and pulleys, often at significant heights. Close coordination with other crew members and departments is essential to ensure efficient workflow and to address unexpected issues that may arise during maintenance or repairs.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are often in specialized industries such as oil and gas, offshore drilling, or large-scale construction projects, where riggers with advanced skills, certifications, and experience can earn higher wages. Supervisory or lead riggers, especially those with certifications like NCCCO or NCCER, tend to command the highest salaries in the field.

What is the salary of rigger in shipping?

Ship riggers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the rigging tasks. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized knowledge can earn higher wages, especially when working overtime or on large projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ship Rigger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ship Rigger, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of rigging techniques, and physical fitness, often supported by vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with hoisting equipment, hand and power tools, and adherence to safety regulations are essential, with certifications like OSHA maritime safety being advantageous. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are key soft skills that help ensure safe and efficient operations. These abilities are critical for maintaining vessel safety, minimizing accidents, and supporting smooth maritime operations.

What does a rigger do on a ship?

A ship rigger is responsible for installing, maintaining, and adjusting the rigging systems that support and control the ship's sails, masts, and other equipment. They work with ropes, cables, pulleys, and hoists, often using specialized tools and safety gear, and must follow safety protocols in a maritime environment. Rigging skills are essential for ensuring the stability and proper functioning of the ship's structural and operational components.
More about Ship Rigger jobs
What cities are hiring for Ship Rigger jobs? Cities with the most Ship Rigger job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ship Rigger jobs? The most popular types of Ship Rigger jobs are:
What states have the most Ship Rigger jobs? States with the most job openings for Ship Rigger jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ship Rigger jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Rigger jobs are:
Infographic showing various Ship Rigger job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.
RIGGER

$25.75 - $33.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Trident Refit Facility Bangor, and Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility.
Applicants will only be considered for positions within their own UIC. For example: if you are within UIC 4523A, you will only be considered for positions within 4523A.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • You will direct the operation of cranes and similar equipment and direct laborers and helpers.
  • You will fabricate, install, and repair standing and running rigging and wire cable or fiber rope articles, such as slings, towing bridles, nets, rope ladders, and other ship and boat rigging and weight handling gear.
  • You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing lines on cleats or bollards, hauling on lines with capstans, and performing similar duties.
  • You will install beam clamps, gin poles, gallows frames, and other supporting structures; and use jacks, pulley blocks, chain falls, rollers, and similar equipment as necessary to move and position heavy items.
  • You will perform and direct the placement, removal, or re-positioning of machinery, structural members of ships or buildings, heavy equipment, or other loads.
  • You will estimate the size, weight, equipment capacity, and plans for clearance and safety factors.
  • You will guide and direct apprentices and helpers in proper and safe rigging practices.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a US Citizen.
  • Must be determined suitable for federal employment.
  • Must participate in the direct deposit pay program.
  • New employees to the Department of the Navy will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov
  • Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days immediately following retirement date to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326.
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • This may be a bargaining unit position.
  • You may be required to successfully complete a pre-appointment physical examination.
  • You will be required to obtain and maintain an interim and/or final security clearance prior to entrance on duty. Failure to obtain and maintain the required level of clearance may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or removal.
  • A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if you fail to report to the drug test appointment or fail the test. You may be subject to random drug testing.
  • You may be required to wear personal protective equipment such as helmets, gloves, coveralls, glasses, goggles, respirators and safety shoes continuously for the duration of the work shift.
  • Work may be performed in areas where potentially harmful physical and chemical agents are present (e.g. fumes, dust, heat, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation and chemicals). You may be required to participate in medical surveillance programs.
  • This position may require exposure to high noise levels.
  • This position may require travel from normal duty station to CONUS and OCONUS and may include remote or isolated sites. You must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods of time.
  • This position may be subject to work an uncommon tour, including nights, weekends, and holidays to meet mission requirements. Overtime or night differential pay and/or unusual duty hours may be required.

Qualifications
Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the job elements and screen out listed below.
This job has a screen-out element which will be used to determine minimum eligibility for this job. Applicants who do not receive a minimum of two points on the screen-out element(s) will be found ineligible. The Screen-out Element for this position is: ABILITY TO DO THE WORK WITHOUT MORE THAN NORMAL SUPERVISION.
Applicants must meet the requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Job Qualification Handbook for Trades and Labor Occupations. Additional qualification information can be found at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/federal-wage-system-qualifications/#url=List-of-Approved-Job-Elements
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
Salary is based on geographical location and is subject to change with the annual local wage surveys in accordance with the provisions of 5 CFR Part 532 for all employees whose official duty station is located within the geographic boundary of the wage area definition. For more information please visit: https://wageandsalary.dcpas.osd.mil/BWN/AFWageSchedules/
SALARY:
Puget Sound Naval Shipyard:
WA: https://wageandsalary.dcpas.osd.mil/Content/FWS%20Special%20Schedules/MS_A143_143_Seattle_Everett_Tacoma,Washington.pdf
CA: https://wageandsalary.dcpas.osd.mil/Content/FWS%20Special%20Schedules/AM_A017_017_San_Diego,California.pdf
Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility: https://wageandsalary.dcpas.osd.mil/Content/AF%20Schedules/survey-sch/044/044R-25Nov2025.pdf
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard:
ME: https://wageandsalary.dcpas.osd.mil/Content/AF%20Schedules/survey-sch/087/087R-02Jan2025.pdf
CA: https://wageandsalary.dcpas.osd.mil/Content/AF%20Schedules/survey-sch/017/017R-02Jan2025.pdf
Norfolk Naval Shipyard:
VA:https://wageandsalary.dcpas.osd.mil/Content/AF%20Schedules/survey-sch/140/140R-09Jul2024.pdf
PA: https://wageandsalary.dcpas.osd.mil/Content/AF%20Schedules/survey-sch/115/115R-02Jan2025.pdf
Trident Refit Facility, Bangor, WA: https://wageandsalary.dcpas.osd.mil/Content/FWS%20Special%20Schedules/MS_A143_143_Seattle_Everett_Tacoma,Washington.pdf
This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program.
Additional vacancies may be filled by this announcement.
A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if the selectee fails to meet the pre-employment requirements, including failure to report to any of the scheduled appointments.
Temporary promotions may be extended up to 5 years at the discretion of management and in accordance with applicable regulations.
Temporary actions taken under this announcement may be made permanent without further competition.
Certain incentives (such as Recruitment, Relocation or Student Loan Repayment) may be authorized to eligible selectees.
A relocation incentive is generally a single payment intended to offset some of the relocation costs experienced by the selectee. A relocation incentive may be authorized.
Applicants rated ineligible on this vacancy announcement need to reapply and update their application package to be considered on future vacancies filled through this announcement.
Applicants selected and hired through this vacancy announcement need to reapply to be considered on future vacancies filled through this announcement.
Referral lists will be issued on an as-needed basis as vacancies occur.
All eligibility and qualifications must be met by the referral cut-off date.
PPP applicants will be placed at the FPL, if determined Well Qualified (WQ). To receive priority consideration, the FPL must be the same grade level or equivalent of the retained grade or the grade held immediately prior to separation.
Federal annuitant information: The selection of an annuitant is subject to the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy policy on the employment of annuitants. Policy information may be found at: http://www.secnav.navy.mil/donhr/Documents/CivilianJobs/FedCivAnnuitants.pdf
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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