Riggers
SOC Code: 49-9096Also known as:
Acrobatic Rigger, Boat Rigger, Certified Rigger, Crane Rigger, Fly Rail Operator
Median Annual Salary
$62,060
+3.2% growth (2024-2034)
3K
Openings/Year
25K
Current Jobs
What Riggers Do
Set up or repair rigging for construction projects, manufacturing plants, logging yards, ships and shipyards, or for the entertainment industry.
💰 Salary
$62,060
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+3.2%
As fast as average
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
3K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
24,600
Projected Employment (2034)
25,400
Related Careers
Mobile heavy equipment mechanics, except engines
$63,980 •
+5.8% growth
Millwrights
$65,170 •
+0.0% growth
Crane and tower operators
$66,370 •
+3.0% growth
Hoist and winch operators
$52,310 •
-1.1% growth
Industrial truck and tractor operators
$46,390 •
+1.1% growth
Top Skills Required
Operation and Control
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Test rigging to ensure safety and reliability.
- Signal or verbally direct workers engaged in hoisting and moving loads to ensure safety of workers and materials.
- Control movement of heavy equipment through narrow openings or confined spaces, using chainfalls, gin poles, gallows frames, and other equipment.
- Tilt, dip, and turn suspended loads to maneuver over, under, or around obstacles, using multi-point suspension techniques.
- Select gear, such as cables, pulleys, and winches, according to load weights and sizes, facilities, and work schedules.
- Dismantle and store rigging equipment after use.
- Attach loads to rigging to provide support or prepare them for moving, using hand and power tools.
- Manipulate rigging lines, hoists, and pulling gear to move or support materials, such as heavy equipment, ships, or theatrical sets.
- Align, level, and anchor machinery.
- Load machines onto trucks to prepare for transportation.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
College rankings for this career path are being calculated. Check back soon!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do riggers make?
The median annual salary for riggers is $62,060.
What education do riggers need?
Most riggers positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Is becoming riggers a good career choice?
Riggers is projected to see +3.2% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 2,500 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for riggers?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to riggers?
Riggers may also be known as: Acrobatic Rigger, Boat Rigger, Certified Rigger, Crane Rigger, Fly Rail Operator, Gantry Rigger, Gear Repairer, Grip, Hand Rigger, Heavy Lift Rigger, High Rigger, Hook Tender, Loft Rigger, Machinery Erector, Machinery Mover, Marine Rigger, Motor Rigger, Outside Rigger, Parachute Rigger, Rig Builder.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.