Rigger

Job Summary The Division of Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Wisconsin‑Madison dedicates itself to the mission of providing athletic opportunities to a wide range of students in an environment in which all student‑athletes can achieve their academic and competitive goals. The Division strives to provide equitable opportunities for all student‑athletes and fosters the principles of sportsmanship, respect, and fair play on the field of play. The Division sponsors teams in 23 sports competing under the regulatory guidelines established by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the Big Ten Conference, and the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA). Job Responsibilities Provide equipment and operations service and support associated with Division I rowing teams. Equipment Setup Assemble and attach riggers to rowing shells according to precise technical measurements tailored to specific boat setups. Position and adjust oarlocks, foot stretchers, shoes, and tracks to meet individual athlete proportions, weight classes, and rowing styles. Work closely with the coaching staff to implement rigging adjustments optimized for varying water conditions and race strategies. Maintenance and Repairs Perform repairs on carbon fiber, fiberglass, and composite rowing shells, oars, and components. Conduct routine inspections of all hardware, steering mechanisms, fin/skeg assemblies, and moving parts to minimize equipment failure during training. Launch and Facility Management Maintain, service, and winterize outboard motors and hulls for all coaching launches. Ensure all towing vehicles and trailers are properly maintained and in safe working order. Oversee the general maintenance of the boathouse facility, including athlete training equipment, race course and buoy systems, dock systems, boat racks, work bays, and tool storage. Safety Checks Ensure all equipment is secure and safe before launching. Identify potential issues that might affect boat stability or athlete safety. Inventory Management Keep track of equipment inventory. Order or request new parts as necessary. Transportation and Travel to Competitions and Trainings Plan, prepare, and execute the transport of shells, trailers, and other equipment. Supervision of Student Staff Supervise part‑time and student staff. Supervise and instruct athletes regarding rigging and the care and handling of rowing equipment. Collaborate with coaching staff to ensure that all equipment is properly stored. Oversee, repair, and maintain all equipment. Responsible for installation of design improvements and equipment within the boathouse and auxiliary training locations. Assist with water safety issues during practices and collaborate with facilities staff to ensure security, operation, and maintenance of the boathouse. Plan, prepare, and execute travel for the team’s equipment. Compensation and Benefits Minimum starting rate is $25 per hour. Benefits include generous vacation, holidays, and other paid time off; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits; Badger apparel and season tickets for football, men’s basketball, and men’s hockey, and/or the varsity sports pass. Required Qualifications Knowledge of rowing equipment: understanding of boat construction, types of riggers, oarlocks, and related rowing hardware. Mechanical skills: ability to use tools for assembly, adjustment, and repair work. Attention to detail: precision is critical as small adjustments affect boat balance and performance. Experience with rowing: practical experience as a rower or work with rowing teams. Physical fitness: ability to lift and handle boats and equipment safely. Problem‑solving ability: quickly diagnose and fix equipment issues. Communication skills: demonstrated ability to communicate with student‑athletes, coaches, and vendors. Availability for early mornings and weekends, including travel to away competitions and trainings tied to the typical Division I collegiate rowing season. Education Bachelor’s degree preferred. Equal Opportunity Employer The University of Wisconsin‑Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. Contact Information Kayla Weisensel, View email address on click.appcast.io Institutional Statement on Diversity Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW‑Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinions enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals. #J-18808-Ljbffr