Launch Your Career: Seasonal Rigging Worker at San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
Are you looking for a career that takes you out of the office and onto the deck of an iconic sailing vessel? The National Park Service (NPS) is hiring for the position of Rigging Worker (Seasonal) at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. This is a rare opportunity for individuals with specialized technical skills to contribute to the preservation of our nation's maritime heritage.
Job Responsibilities
As a Rigging Worker, you will perform hands-on maintenance on traditional, square-rigged sailing ships. Your responsibilities include:
- Working Aloft: Safely climbing masts up to 150 feet to perform repairs and maintenance.
- Rigging Maintenance: Utilizing traditional skills such as splicing, serving, parceling, worming, and seizing.
- Deck Operations: Handling sails, operating the capstan, and striking yards and topmasts.
- Safety Compliance: Working with power equipment and maneuvering in narrow confines while following strict safety standards.
Comparison: Standard Industrial Rigging vs. Traditional Maritime Rigging
| Feature | Standard Industrial Rigging | Traditional Maritime Rigging |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | Modern cranes/hoists | Blocks, tackle, lines, sails |
| Environment | Construction/Industrial sites | Historic ships/Museum docks |
| Techniques | Mechanical engineering focus | Traditional ropework & splicing |
| Working Height | Varies | Up to 150ft on masts |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Must be at least 18 years old (with specific provisions for 16-17 year olds).
- A valid driver's license.
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and carrying heavy objects.
- Completion of a background investigation and E-Verify requirements.
Salary and Benefits
This role offers a competitive hourly wage between $35.48 and $41.32. While this is a seasonal, temporary appointment, employees benefit from a professional environment, potential for uniform allowances, and the unique prestige of working with a National Historical Park.
How to Apply
Application for this position is conducted entirely online through the USAJOBS platform. Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and clearly demonstrates your experience in rigging, blueprint reading, and tool maintenance. Every detail counts, so ensure your responses to the assessment questionnaire are supported by your resume content.
If you have the skills to maintain historic rigging and the drive to work in one of the most beautiful maritime settings in the world, we encourage you to apply. This seasonal role is a gateway to contributing to the National Park Service mission and preserving a legacy for future generations.
Why This Rigging Worker (Seasonal) Job Matters
Embark on a career that spans the sea and history—become a Rigging Worker for the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park.
Rigging Worker (Seasonal) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking skilled individuals to join our team as seasonal Rigging Workers at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on traditionally rigged, square-rigged sailing vessels, preserving our nation's maritime heritage. You will contribute to the maintenance of historic ships while working in a dynamic environment that combines historical craftsmanship with modern safety standards.
Requirements for Rigging Worker (Seasonal)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be at least 18 years old (or 16 with specific educational documentation).
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Must undergo a successful background investigation and suitability adjudication.
- Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must pass an E-Verify employment check.
- Must be able to perform physically demanding work, including climbing up to 150 feet aloft.
- Must strictly adhere to uniform and safety equipment standards.
Preferred Qualifications for Rigging Worker (Seasonal)
- Proficiency in traditional rigging techniques, including worming, parceling, serving, and splicing.
- Experience in operating and tensioning standing and running rigging on square-rigged vessels.
- Demonstrated ability to read blueprints and technical specifications.
- High proficiency in the use and maintenance of hand and power tools.
- Strong mechanical aptitude for the installation and repair of maritime equipment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Uniform allowance provided.
- ✓Opportunity to work in a unique, historic National Park setting.
- ✓Exposure to professional maritime conservation and museum operations.
- ✓Potential for government housing (not guaranteed; inquire with the park).
- ✓Professional training and development opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Rigging Worker (Seasonal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Rigging Worker (Seasonal) Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJOBS carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, adhering to the 10-point font and 0.5-inch margin requirements.
- Complete the online application and all mandatory assessments via the provided USAJOBS link.
- Upload all required documentation, including veterans' preference forms if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of 10/26/2026.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly detail your experience; do not rely on job titles alone to convey your skills.
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the job-related factors mentioned in the announcement.
- Do not include photographs in your application materials.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account.
- If you are using CTAP/ICTAP, ensure all proof of eligibility is attached to avoid disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 1039-hour limit mean for my employment?
This is a seasonal appointment not to exceed 1039 hours. Exceeding this limit within your service year may result in the loss of non-competitive rehire eligibility.
Can I use my education to substitute for work experience?
No, education cannot be substituted for experience for Federal Wage System (FWS) positions.
Will I be working with the public?
Yes, duties are performed on museum docks and historic ships in full view of the general public.
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service (NPS) preserves the natural and cultural resources of the United States. Within the Pacific West Region, the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park serves as a living museum, housing a world-class fleet of historic vessels. Working here means more than just a job; it means joining a team dedicated to educating and inspiring the public while maintaining the physical integrity of maritime history.