Rigger

A rigger inspects rigging gear, calculates load weights, and attaches hardware to move heavy machinery or materials safely. They attach loads to hoists and cranes using slings, shackles, and chains. Riggers also signal crane operators using radios or hand signals to guide picks accurately. Between lifts, they set up hoists, roll heavy machinery on skates, and assemble crane components.

Yes, many employers require certification, and OSHA rules mandate that riggers working on construction crane operations are qualified. Riggers frequently earn credentials such as NCCCO Rigger Level I or Level II, along with a signalperson qualification. Certification programs verify that a worker understands sling angle stress, hardware inspection standards, and proper hand signaling through written and practical testing.

You can start by applying as a rigger helper or entering an apprenticeship program. Helpers learn practical skills on the job under experienced professionals, often needing only a high school diploma or equivalent. Another path is joining a 3 to 4 year union ironworker or millwright apprenticeship, which blends paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction on rigging math and safety standards.

Working conditions for riggers involve heavy physical labor in outdoor and industrial settings in all weather conditions. Riggers regularly work at heights and alongside suspended industrial loads. While normal schedules run during day shifts, industrial plant outages, shipyards, and refinery shutdowns often require night shifts, weekend duty, and long runs of consecutive working days. Overtime is very common on major projects.

Riggers use rigging hardware, mechanical lifting devices, and signaling tools to move heavy items. Daily equipment includes wire rope, synthetic slings, shackles, hooks, and chain falls. When positioning machinery inside facilities, riggers use mechanical jacks, come-alongs, rollers, and skates. They also rely on two-way radios and standard hand signals to communicate clearly with crane operators throughout lifts.

Technology changes lift planning and monitoring, but physical rigging remains an entirely hands-on human task. Lift planning software helps engineers and supervisors calculate crane capacities and plot clearance paths before rigging begins. Load-monitoring cells help verify exact weights during hoisting. However, attaching slings, inspecting hardware, maneuvering machinery, and directing crane operators on site still require skilled human riggers.

Riggers can advance to lead rigger, rigging foreman, or eventually rigging supervisor and lift planner. Experienced workers who plan complex lifts can transition into engineering support roles. Riggers also possess foundational knowledge that allows them to cross-train into related trades. They frequently move into roles as crane operators, millwrights, or structural ironworkers on industrial and commercial job sites.