Preserving Maritime History: Become a Historic Ship Rigger
Are you a skilled rigger with a passion for history? The National Park Service (NPS) is offering a unique opportunity to work at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. As a Historic Ship Rigger, you will play a critical role in preserving the integrity of some of the nation's most iconic historic vessels.
Job Responsibilities
This role is hands-on and physically demanding. You will work with traditional materials and techniques to maintain both standing and running rigging. Key responsibilities include:
- Going aloft to handle sails, yards, and topmasts.
- Operating capstans and tensioning rigging systems.
- Executing complex repairs using worming, parceling, serving, splicing, and tarring.
- Utilizing measuring instruments to ensure precise alignment.
Comparison Table: Job Requirements
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Age Requirement | Minimum 18 years old |
| Physicality | Must be able to lift 50+ lbs and work aloft |
| License | Valid Driver's License Required |
| Education | No substitution for experience |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage between $39.52 and $46.03. While this is a temporary seasonal role, it provides unparalleled professional development in specialized maritime conservation. Employees receive a uniform allowance, and in some cases, may have access to government housing.
How to Apply
To be considered, you must apply through the USAJOBS portal. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer and clearly maps your experience to the job elements. Missing documentation or an oversized resume will lead to an immediate disqualification.
This is more than just a job; it is a chance to be a guardian of maritime history. If you possess the technical skill and the spirit of adventure, apply before October 26, 2026, to join the team in San Francisco.
Why This Historic Ship Rigger (Seasonal) Job Matters
Preserve maritime history as a Historic Ship Rigger in iconic San Francisco, maintaining the storied vessels of the National Park Service.
Historic Ship Rigger (Seasonal) Job Overview
The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is seeking skilled Historic Ship Riggers for a seasonal appointment. This role is ideal for individuals with a deep appreciation for maritime history and the technical expertise required to maintain historic rigging, sails, and traditional deck equipment. You will work in a dynamic, outdoor environment, ensuring these national treasures remain in top condition for future generations.
Requirements for Historic Ship Rigger (Seasonal)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Ability to pass a background investigation.
- Must be 18 years of age or older (or 16+ with specific educational/training requirements).
- Hold and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Registration for Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/59).
- Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment check.
- Ability to perform heavy physical labor, including lifting up to 50 lbs and working at heights.
- Willingness to work in various weather conditions and potential shift/on-call schedules.
Preferred Qualifications for Historic Ship Rigger (Seasonal)
- Experience with traditional maritime rigging techniques (worming, parceling, serving, splicing, seizing, and tarring).
- Ability to read and interpret complex technical specifications and blueprints.
- High proficiency in the safe use and maintenance of varied power and hand tools.
- Proven track record of working safely in elevated or unstable marine environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly wage
- ✓Uniform allowance provided
- ✓Valuable experience with a federal land management agency
- ✓Exposure to unique maritime conservation practices
- ✓Potential for government housing (not guaranteed)
💡 How to Apply Historic Ship Rigger (Seasonal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Historic Ship Rigger (Seasonal) Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJOBS carefully.
- Prepare a federal-style resume (maximum 2 pages, 10-point font minimum).
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all supporting documentation by the closing date of 10/26/2026.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account for status updates.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; extra pages will be discarded.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the experience required for the job elements listed.
- Do not include photographs in your application materials.
- Address the 'screen-out' element clearly to ensure you aren't disqualified early.
- Submit all required documents, including DD-214s or SF-15s if claiming veterans' preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the season duration for this role?
The position is a temporary appointment not to exceed 1039 hours. Work typically begins between April and May, though it depends on funding and project needs.
Can I substitute education for experience?
No, there is no substitution of education for experience for these Federal Wage System (FWS) positions.
Is government housing available?
Government housing may be available, but it is not guaranteed. You are encouraged to contact the park directly for specific information.
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service, a bureau of the Department of the Interior, is dedicated to protecting the natural and cultural heritage of the United States. Working at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park offers a one-of-a-kind career experience where you contribute to the ongoing preservation of ships that defined the maritime age of the Pacific Coast.