Job Description
The Department of the Navy is seeking a Rigging Worker (WG 8) to join its team in San Diego, California. This role is critical to shipyard operations, supporting dry docking and launching of vessels, moving heavy machinery, and ensuring safe rigging practices.
As a Rigging Worker, you will work alongside Journeymen Riggers and may lead lesser-skilled workers in installing, removing, and repositioning structural members of ships, heavy equipment, and other loads.
You will direct crane operations using standard signals, determine proper gear placement to secure loads, and perform spot checks to verify compliance with established rigging methods and safety protocols.
This position requires the use of personal protective equipment and may involve exposure to hazardous materials, high noise levels, and unusual duty hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.
The role is ideal for individuals with hands-on rigging experience who can work with minimal supervision and are committed to safety and precision in a federal maritime environment.
Salary & Compensation
Estimated market salary: $45,000 - $85,000 per year.
Qualification
To qualify for the Rigging Worker position (WG 8), you must demonstrate the ability to perform the work without more than normal supervision. This is the screen-out element. Your experience and training will be evaluated based on quality, not necessarily length of time.
- Ability to do the work of the position without more than normal supervision (screen-out element).
- Experience in rigging operations, including dry docking and launching of ships.
- Knowledge of standard crane signals and safe load handling.
- Skill in determining placement of gear to ensure loads are secure and balanced.
- Familiarity with protective equipment and safety practices in industrial settings.
- Ability to assist Journeymen Riggers or lead lesser-skilled workers.
- Experience with installation, removal, and repositioning of machinery or structural members.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be determined suitable for federal employment.
- Must participate in direct deposit pay program.
Role Responsibilities
Work with Riggers in dry docking and launching operations.
- Direct operations of cranes and similar equipment using standard signals.
- Determine placement of gear to assure loads are secure and balanced.
- Perform spot checks to assure established rigging methods and safety practices are followed.
- Use protective equipment and clothing for work assignments.
- Demonstrate proficient knowledge of rigging to assist Journeymen Riggers or lead lesser-skilled workers.
- Install, remove, and reposition machinery, structural members of ships or buildings, heavy equipment, or other loads.
How to Apply
Create or log in to your USAJOBS account at usajobs.gov.
- Open the announcement (Job ID
- and click 'Apply' to start your application.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire and attach your federal resume (2-page limit) and required documents.
- Submit your complete application package by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on October 13, 2026.
- Monitor your application status in USAJOBS under 'Application Status'.
Additional Information
This position is full-time with a pay grade of WG 8, hourly rate $24.71
- $38.53.
- Multiple work sites available: San Diego, CA; Pearl Harbor, HI; Portsmouth, ME; Philadelphia, PA; Norfolk, VA; Bangor, WA; Bremerton, WA; Everett, WA.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen and pass a pre-appointment physical examination.
- May require a security clearance and random drug testing.
- Work may involve uncommon tours, overtime, and travel on military/commercial aircraft.
- Resumes must be no more than 2 pages; use USAJOBS Resume Builder for best results.
- Veterans claiming preference must submit DD-214 or equivalent documentation.
About Company
The Department of the Navy is a branch of the U.S. Department of Defense responsible for naval operations and maritime defense. It employs a diverse civilian workforce supporting shipyards, maintenance facilities, and administrative offices worldwide. This Rigging Worker position is part of the Navy's shipyard operations, ensuring vessels are safely docked, launched, and maintained. Working for the Navy offers federal benefits, job stability, and the opportunity to contribute to national defense in a hands-on trade role.