Launch Your Career: Rigger Position with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Are you a master of rigging, lifting, and structural maintenance? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is looking for a dedicated Rigger to join the McNary Project team in Umatilla, Oregon. This role is a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the nation’s essential hydropower facilities.
Job Responsibilities
As a Rigger, you will be on the front lines of maintenance and facility operations at the McNary Dam. Your core duties will include:
- Rigging Operations: Planning and executing the safe movement of heavy loads using specialized equipment.
- Crane Operation: Operating a variety of cranes (from 7.5 to 350-ton capacity) to support project maintenance.
- Structural Fabrication: Constructing and maintaining crane booms, steel platforms, and project-specific infrastructure.
- Safety Coordination: Using standard hand signals to ensure all team members are coordinated during high-risk lifting maneuvers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $69.15 per hour |
| Location | Umatilla, Oregon |
| Job Category | Rigging (Code 5210) |
| Appointment Type | Direct Hire Authority |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must be a U.S. Citizen. Your application must demonstrate that you can perform rigging tasks independently. Key qualifications include a solid history of work with heavy equipment and structural installation. Please ensure your resume highlights your specific experience with crane operation and rigging safety.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a highly competitive rate of $69.15 per hour. Beyond the hourly pay, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision coverage.
- Retirement benefits through the FERS system.
- Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style).
- Generous vacation, sick leave, and federal holiday schedules.
Application Tips
Your application is the first step toward your new career. To avoid disqualification, keep your resume to two pages or less. Use plain, professional language to describe your accomplishments, and always verify that your contact information and employment dates are accurate before hitting submit.
Working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers offers more than just a paycheck; it offers the chance to build a legacy. Apply today to help keep our critical power infrastructure running strong.
Why This Rigger Job Matters
Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and play a vital role in powering the nation’s infrastructure as a Rigger at the iconic McNary Dam.
Rigger Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a skilled Rigger to join the team at the McNary Project in Umatilla, Oregon. This position is essential to the maintenance and operational success of one of our key multi-purpose hydropower facilities. You will perform critical rigging tasks, operate various cranes, and fabricate structural components to ensure the facility remains safe and efficient. This is a direct hire opportunity for those who have the expertise to work independently and safely in a dynamic, high-impact environment.
Requirements for Rigger
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ability to perform rigging duties without more than normal supervision
- Proficiency in planning, layout, and installation of rigging for heavy loads
- Experience using standard hand signals for crane and load movement
- Capability to fabricate and install steel and sheet metal structural members
- Experience operating electrically-powered cranes ranging from 7.5 to 350 tons
- Must be able to lift and carry equipment frequently up to 45 pounds, occasionally more
- Must complete and maintain all required occupational health standards
Preferred Qualifications for Rigger
- Experience with welding equipment and pneumatic tools
- Demonstrated ability to perform maintenance and overhauls in hydro-electric environments
- Strong understanding of safety protocols in high-noise or hazardous environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave
- ✓Life insurance programs
- ✓Career development and training opportunities
- ✓State tax exemption for employees living in Washington while working at McNary
💡 How to Apply Rigger Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Rigger Job
- Log in to or create your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full announcement and prepare your resume (strictly limited to two pages).
- Complete the required online questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, including your resume and optional cover letter.
- Verify that your application package is complete and submit it before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must be two pages or less; longer resumes will be automatically excluded.
- Be specific with your work history, including the number of hours worked per week and exact start/end dates.
- Avoid using acronyms; use plain language to describe your experience.
- Double-check your documentation to ensure it is legible and free of personal photos.
- Submit early to ensure your documents pass the system virus scan before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary for this position?
The pay rate for this Rigger position is $69.15 per hour.
Can I live in Washington and work at the McNary Dam?
Yes. Employees working at the McNary project who reside in Washington state are exempt from Oregon state income tax.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a security clearance is not required for this role, though it is designated as a non-sensitive/low-risk position.
What is the deadline to apply?
*A: The application must be received by August 13, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.*
Is there an age limit for this job?
*A: No, but male applicants born after 1959 must register with the Selective Service.*
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is a world-class organization committed to engineering solutions for the nation's toughest challenges. From managing water resources to supporting national defense infrastructure, the USACE is where technical expertise meets public service. When you join the USACE, you become part of a team that values innovation, safety, and operational excellence.