Rigger Salary

A rigger is responsible for using cranes and lifts to help transport large, heavy cargo such as manufacturing equipment or construction machinery. The rigger's main objective is to move the property without damage to the product they are transporting, property, or individuals. Riggers are responsible for fastening up large loads, overseeing and directing the operators of the transport equipment, reporting any issues, and documenting completed work orders. Riggers are also in charge of the tear-down, cleaning, and storage of any rigging equipment or machinery used in transport.

The rigger is responsible for overseeing and delegating transportation tasks to ensure they are completed by the proper workers and teams. Riggers work with a variety of individuals, including shippers, receivers, packaging specialists, machine operators, drivers, and managers. Riggers also sometimes work directly with customers, providing sales quotes and time estimates for rigging jobs. The rigger's day-to-day responsibilities may vary based on their industry, but they typically involve fastening property in accordance with relevant laws, directing and overseeing other operators, performing equipment installation, and completing final assembly and testing of all equipment. The job usually requires working full time, with a majority of the day spent in the field and traveling from pick-up to drop-off sites.

Rigging jobs generally require a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as specialized training in rigging systems and practices. A minimum of two years' rigging experience is usually required. Additionally, most employers require a rigger to be trained in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines. Industry-relevant experience is also required depending on the type of property that a rigger moves. A commercial driver's license (CDL) is also required. Most riggers are also required to pass drug and alcohol testing, a vision exam, and standard physical. (Copyright 2017 PayScale.com)

Rigger Tasks

• Examine sites, loads, and their destinations to determine rigging to move loads to the correct location.
• Communicate with other workers to ensure safety.
• Move heavy loads without damaging them, tilting, and guiding as the site requires.
• Select and align cranes, gears, pulleys, and winches, anchoring them for safety.