Rigging Associate (Full Time)

Stores•Kemah, TX

22h

About The Position

Under general supervision, this position is responsible for supporting Rig Shop operations through specialized marine rigging services, custom fabrication, and advanced product expertise. As a Rigging Associate, you will be responsible for performing skilled, hands-on rigging work including splicing, swaging, and custom fabrication of marine rigging assemblies, along with providing exceptional customer service. The Rigging Associate applies trade-level craft knowledge to produce rigging solutions for both retail and production customers. West Marine is Drug-Free and Equal Opportunity Employer.

Requirements

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, facilitating clear and effective interactions
Strong interpersonal and customer service abilities, fostering positive relationships with customers and team members
Proven sales skills with a focus on delivering outstanding customer service
Exceptional organizational abilities and attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in all tasks
Strong time management skills with a demonstrated ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Robust analytical and problem-solving skills to address challenges effectively
Ability to thrive in a high-paced and sometimes stressful environment
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and related software applications
Ability to interpret rigging diagrams, measurements, and terminology to assist customers and complete work accurately.
Demonstrated hands-on technical skills in splicing and rigging installation in both shop and marine vessel settings.
Ability to obtain certification from cordage vendors for splicing various types of cordage
High school diploma or equivalent required
General knowledge of sailing and boats, with the ability to read measurements in both imperial and metric systems
Must be at least 21 years old
Must maintain a valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record
Willing to submit to a criminal background check, a pre-employment drug screen and DMV checks per the West Marine Driver Fleet Safety Program
Willing to work a varied shift based upon business needs, including unscheduled overtime

Nice To Haves

Experience with custom rigging fabrication strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Collaborate with the Rigging Supervisor/Manager to prioritize and complete rigging work orders efficiently and accurately
Produce quotes, process orders, and manage production and payments for rigging products and services.
Perform line splicing, rope cutting, swaging, hardware installation, and other rigging-related fabrication services
Drive sales through effective customer engagement, suggestive selling, and sharing product knowledge
Communicate with customers and store leadership to ensure clarity of scope, pricing, and timelines for rigging services
Occasional travel for on-site assessment and installation of customers’ rigging orders
Understand and demonstrate the proper use of all equipment and tools utilized in both the field and the shop.
Assist customers with in-store purchases, providing knowledgeable and technically informed recommendations
Educate store staff about the services and capabilities of the rigging shop to enhance team performance
Support restocking and proper organization of rigging hardware, lines, fittings, and related marine components
Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant Rig Shop workspace, while complying with all legal requirements to maintain the reputation of the business both in the shop and in the field.
Perform additional tasks as assigned
Perform hand splicing of running rigging lines, including eye splices, Flemish eyes, and whipped ends, using high-performance materials such as Dyneema, Spectra, Technora, Vectran, and polyester braid.
Fabricate custom running rigging assemblies — halyards, sheets, control lines, guys, and other sail control lines — to precise customer and OEM specifications.
Measure, cut, and finish standing rigging components, including 1x19 stainless steel wire and Dyform wire, to required lengths and tolerances.
Install and service swage fittings, turnbuckles, toggles, lifeline hardware, and associated deck fittings on customer vessels.
Conduct rigging inspections on customer vessels, assessing standing and running rigging for wear, corrosion, fatigue, and structural integrity.
Consult with customers to evaluate rigging needs, interpret boat specifications and diagrams, and recommend appropriate materials and components.
Support production facility orders and OEM boat builder rigging programs, ensuring output meets brand quality and specification standards.