Lead Rigger

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Hodgdon Yacht Services is seeking a hands-on Lead Rigger to take ownership of all aspects of sailboat and yacht rigging, including installation, removal, inspection, and maintenance of standing and running rigging. The Lead Rigger will support seasonal commissioning and decommissioning, project work, and rigging-related sales while working closely with the service manager and service team. Hodgdon Yacht Services works on high-quality sailing yachts in the Boothbay region of Maine, offering the opportunity to take pride in visible, customer-facing work.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Perform spring commissioning: unrack, prepare, step, tune, and rig spars and associated sailing systems.

Bend on sails, install and organize running rigging, and ensure all visible rigging systems are neat, safe, and well presented for the customer.

Perform fall decommissioning: remove sails, flake, label, and stow; unstep masts; inspect rigs and rigging systems; and prepare spars and rigging for winter storage.

Conduct rigging inspections, document findings, and generate work recommendations and estimates for winter and project work in coordination with the service manager.

Fabricate and install new running and standing rigging; service rigging components such as furlers, winches, blocks, and related hardware.

Service and assemble ground tackle systems, including splicing rodes and servicing windlasses and related deck hardware.

Coordinate with subcontractors for specialized rigging services (e.g., rod rigging, hydraulics) and ensure quality and timely completion.

Assist with project work as needed, including deck hardware removal, layout, and reinstallation.

Collaborate with other departments when required to meet customer and yard scheduling needs.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Prior marine rigging, sailboat service, or closely related boatyard experience strongly preferred.

Some heavy equipment operation experience (e.g., forklifts, lifts) preferred; training can be provided.

Ability to follow directions, work effectively as part of a team, and communicate clearly with coworkers and supervisors.

Basic understanding of marine electrical systems.

Must be comfortable working at heights aloft and on ladders and staging.

Must be able to meet the schedule requirements and maintain reliable, on-time attendance.

Must be willing and able to wear required personal protective equipment.

SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES:

Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing clean, professional rig installations.

Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills for diagnosing rigging issues and recommending solutions.

Ability to work independently on assigned jobs while coordinating with the service manager on priorities.

Customer-oriented mindset with an understanding that quality rigging contributes directly to vessel safety and owner satisfaction.

EQUIPMENT USED:

Forklift and other boatyard equipment as trained and authorized.

Standard rigging tools and equipment, including swaging tools, rope splicing tools, winches, and tension gauges.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Primarily outdoor work in a boatyard environment with exposure to variable Maine/New England weather.

Occasional work in extreme hot or cold indoor and outdoor temperatures.

Regular exposure to heights (masts, staging), confined spaces, and uneven surfaces typical of marine vessels and yards.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL FUNCTIONS:

Ability to work in standing, squatting, or kneeling positions, including overhead work, with occasional twisting and bending.

Ability to climb stairs and ladders and work safely aloft.

Ability to work in small or confined spaces on vessels.

Ability to lift and carry up to approximately 50 lbs., with heavier lifts assisted by equipment or team members as appropriate.

SCHEDULE AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Standard schedule is Monday–Thursday, 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM, or Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

During the spring and fall haul/launch seasons, and at other peak times, additional hours and occasional weekend work may be required; overtime is paid in accordance with applicable laws.

This is a full-time, year-round, non-exempt position based at Hodgdon Yacht Services in the Boothbay region of Maine.

Candidates must be punctual, safety-conscious, and committed to working as part of a high-quality, professional marine service team.

Company Description

Hodgdon Yacht Services

Full-time