Rigging
Federal Wage Grade rigging position setting up and operating rigging equipment for lifting, moving, and positioning heavy loads at federal shipyards, construction sites, and military installations.
💰WG-5210 Salary Information
Federal Wage System Pay
Federal Wage Grade (WG) pay varies by geographic location and is determined by local prevailing wage surveys.
Look Up WG Pay by LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-5210
Qualification requirements not yet available for this series.
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ✓Experience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
📝How to Qualify for WG-5210
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal rigging position
- 1
Review Trade/Craft Requirements
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
- 2
Document Your Experience
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
- 3
Gather Credentials
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume highlighting your hands-on trade experience, tools and equipment operated, safety training, and specific projects completed. Include hours worked per week.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
🎖️Military to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to WG-5210
Steelworker
Rigging and crane signaling on Seabee projects map directly to the GS-5210 Rigging series at federal facilities, shipyards, and depots.
Railway Equipment Repairer
WG-5210 Rigging rewards the lifting, jacking, and heavy-component handling that rail car overhaul demands.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Perform skilled trade work in accordance with established standards, specifications, and safety procedures
- •Operate, maintain, and repair trade-specific equipment, tools, and machinery
- •Read and interpret blueprints, technical manuals, work orders, and specifications
- •Inspect completed work for quality, accuracy, and compliance with requirements
- •Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in clean, safe, and operational condition
- •Document work performed including time, materials used, and completion status
- •Coordinate with supervisors and other trades on project requirements and schedules
- •Follow all safety protocols including proper use of PPE and hazardous material handling
- •Train and assist lower-grade workers in trade techniques and procedures
- •Requisition materials, parts, and supplies needed to complete assigned work
🎯Key Competencies
Understanding of trade-specific tools, equipment, materials, and techniques required for the position
Physical coordination and skill in using hands and tools to perform precise work
Knowledge of workplace safety procedures, OSHA standards, and proper use of personal protective equipment
Ability to diagnose issues, troubleshoot problems, and determine effective repair solutions
Attention to detail ensuring work meets specifications, standards, and quality requirements
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, diagrams, and work orders
Proficiency in operating trade-specific machinery, power tools, and specialized equipment
Knowledge of preventive maintenance, inspection protocols, and equipment care
Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and customers about work status
Flexibility to work in various conditions and adjust to changing priorities and assignments
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
Grade information not available
Related Series
❓Frequently Asked Questions about WG-5210
What is a federal Rigger?
A federal Rigger (WG-5210) sets up and operates rigging equipment for lifting, moving, and positioning heavy loads at federal shipyards, construction sites, and military installations. They safely handle multi-ton loads requiring precise placement.
How much does a federal Rigger make?
Federal Riggers (WG-5210) are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Journeyman wages (WG-10/11) typically range $28-$42 per hour depending on locality. Annual earnings range $58,000-$87,000. Shipyard riggers often earn premium rates.
What are the requirements for WG-5210 positions?
WG-5210 requires demonstrated rigging skills. Qualifications include knowledge of load calculations, sling configurations, crane signals, rigging hardware, and safe lifting procedures. Certification in rigging practices is typically required for journeyman positions.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-5210?
Yes, military rigging experience directly qualifies. Navy Boatswain's Mates (BM), Seabee riggers, Army cargo specialists with rigging duties, and any MOS involving heavy lift operations provide directly relevant experience for federal rigging positions.
What is the career progression for Rigging?
Riggers progress through skill levels to journeyman (WG-10/11) and lead rigger positions. Career paths include crane operator, rigging supervisor, or heavy equipment management. Shipyard riggers have opportunities for specialized heavy lift operations.
How do I apply for WG-5210 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Rigger' or series '5210.' Major employers include naval shipyards, construction agencies, and heavy equipment facilities. Highlight your rigging certifications, crane signaling experience, and safety record. Veterans receive preference.
Ready to Apply for WG-5210?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.