RIGGER ENTRY LEVEL

Rigger Entry Level

Riggers provide the kinetic energy of the shipbuilding business. They operate the vast majority of cranes throughout the shipyard in addition to a wide assortment of forklifts with various capacities. Riggers are also responsible for operation of the shipyard's tug boats moving ships between dry docks and piers, and mooring ships while at the piers and outfitting berths.

Riggers handle every component of a ship - from pipes and valves, to pumps, motors and electronic equipment, to the largest machinery and structural components riggers are able to lift, manipulate, and set them into place. To accomplish this, riggers must be able to calculate the weight and center of gravity of the item being handled, determine the capacity of the lift points, and calculate the angle imposed on the handling gear in order to select the most appropriate gear for the task at hand.

Riggers erect, maintain, and dismantle various types of scaffolding throughout the shipyard. Each type is selected to best suit the physical location and intended use, to provide a safe working platform for personnel where none existed.

The Rigger's Department is also responsible for purchasing, maintaining, and issuing the myriad assortment of tools used in the shipbuilding business. This section of the department also installs and maintains various types of ventilation equipment onboard ships to prevent dangerous atmospheres from developing.

Newport News Shipbuilding offers competitive pay, weekly paychecks, paid time off, paid holidays, medical benefits including an on-site health center, 401K company match, employee discounts, and more.

Candidates must able to work at extreme heights or small confined spaces.

Must be able to kneel, squat, crawl, bend, stoop, and climb.

Must be able to lift 40 lbs and must take and pass a respirator fit test.

Must be able to work indoors / outdoors year round in all weather conditions.

Must be able to work assigned shift as production needs.

Must be able to pass Physical Agility Test.