How much does a Rigger make?
Riggers work in a variety of industries, including construction, film, and theater. Their job involves assembling, disassembling, and moving heavy equipment and materials. With this work comes the potential for a solid income. On average, riggers can earn about $53,976 per year. This average helps set a baseline for what many professionals can expect in their earnings.
Earnings for riggers can vary based on several factors. Experience and skill level play significant roles. Those with more years in the field and specialized skills can earn more. Other factors include the specific industry, location, and even the time of year. Riggers who work in construction often see different salaries compared to those in entertainment. Urban areas tend to offer higher wages than rural ones. Seasonal variations also affect earnings, especially in industries like film, which have busy and slow periods.
What are the highest paying cities for a Rigger?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $74,356
In Los Angeles, professionals can find exciting opportunities in the entertainment industry. Companies like Warner Bros. often need skilled workers to set up elaborate film and TV productions. The competitive salary makes it a desirable place for career growth.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $72,348
San Francisco offers a vibrant job market for those in the rigging field. Tech giants such as Apple and Google create many opportunities. The high cost of living is offset by the competitive wages.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $70,945
Fort Collins provides a balanced lifestyle with many outdoor activities. Employers like Lockheed Martin offer stable jobs. The lower cost of living makes it an attractive choice for many.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $70,480
Las Vegas thrives on entertainment and hospitality. Major casinos and hotels like MGM Resorts need rigging experts. The city's lively atmosphere offers numerous job opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $68,292
Seattle is known for its tech industry and maritime work. Companies such as Boeing and Amazon offer great positions. The mild climate and scenic views add to the appeal.
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Odessa, TX
Average Salary: $67,122
Odessa has a strong presence in the oil and gas industry. Firms like ExxonMobil provide many job opportunities. The cost of living is lower, making it a financially attractive option.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $64,489
Corpus Christi offers a blend of maritime and industrial jobs. Companies like Nucor Corporation often hire for rigging positions. The warm weather and coastal lifestyle are additional perks.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $59,475
Philadelphia is rich in history and offers diverse job opportunities. Companies like Comcast and Siemens need skilled workers. The city's cultural attractions add to the quality of life.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $58,667
Portland is known for its progressive vibe and outdoor activities. Companies such as Nike and Voodoo Range Brewing often seek rigging professionals. The city's emphasis on sustainability attracts many.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $58,520
San Diego offers a mix of military, maritime, and tech jobs. Employers like General Dynamics and Qualcomm provide many opportunities. The pleasant climate and beautiful beaches make it a top choice.
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What are the best companies a Rigger can work for?

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PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC
Average Salary: $73,462
PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC offers exciting Rigger jobs with competitive salaries. They have operations across several states, including California, Texas, and Florida. Their work focuses on rigging and lifting projects in industrial settings, providing a dynamic environment for skilled riggers.
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MasTec Industrial
Average Salary: $72,895
MasTec Industrial pays attractive salaries for Rigger jobs. They are active in many regions, with significant operations in the Southeast and Midwest. Their projects involve infrastructure and construction, where riggers are crucial for ensuring safety and efficiency.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $71,954
BAE Systems USA offers high-paying positions for riggers. They operate in multiple locations across the United States, focusing on defense and aerospace projects. Riggers here will work on complex tasks, ensuring safety and precision in demanding environments.
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Kinsley Construction
Average Salary: $68,000
Kinsley Construction provides solid salaries for riggers, with operations in the Mid-Atlantic region. Their work includes commercial and industrial projects. Riggers will find opportunities to apply their skills in various construction settings.
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Vigor, LLC
Average Salary: $67,007
Vigor, LLC offers competitive pay for riggers, with locations in Oregon and Washington. They focus on shipbuilding and marine construction. Riggers at Vigor work on exciting projects, contributing to the marine industry's growth.
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Sterling Crane
Average Salary: $65,686
Sterling Crane pays well for rigger jobs, operating in states like Texas and Louisiana. Their projects include construction and manufacturing. Riggers here will work on large-scale tasks, ensuring safety and quality.
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SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
Average Salary: $61,538
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS offers good salaries for riggers, with facilities in Florida and North Carolina. They focus on marine services and yacht maintenance. Riggers will find opportunities to work in a maritime environment, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
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Encore Global
Average Salary: $61,244
Encore Global provides attractive salaries for riggers, with operations in Texas and Louisiana. Their projects involve industrial and construction rigging. Riggers will be part of diverse teams, working on challenging projects.
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TIC - The Industrial Company
Average Salary: $60,457
TIC - The Industrial Company offers competitive pay for riggers, with operations in the Midwest and Southeast. They work on industrial projects, including manufacturing and infrastructure. Riggers will engage in various rigging tasks, ensuring project success.
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Omega Morgan
Average Salary: $59,782
Omega Morgan provides good salaries for riggers, with operations in the Midwest and East Coast. Their projects involve construction and infrastructure. Riggers here will work on a range of tasks, ensuring safety and efficiency in their projects.
How to earn more as a Rigger?
In the field of rigging, increasing your earnings can lead to better job satisfaction and financial stability. By focusing on specific factors, riggers can position themselves for higher pay. Emphasizing skills, safety, and professionalism allows riggers to stand out and attract better job opportunities.
First, gaining experience and certifications can help riggers earn more. Employers often pay more for skilled workers. Certifications from organizations such as the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) or the National Rigging Association (NRA) can boost a rigger's credentials. Second, developing a strong safety record shows dedication and care for the job. Fewer accidents mean higher productivity and often higher pay. Third, taking on more complex projects can increase earning potential. Complex tasks usually require more skill and time, leading to higher compensation.
A rigger can also increase income by seeking roles in high-demand industries. Industries like construction and oil and gas often need experienced riggers. Working in these industries can lead to more job opportunities and better pay. Finally, networking with other professionals in the field can open doors to higher-paying positions. Building relationships with other riggers and industry leaders can lead to referrals and job leads.
By focusing on these factors, riggers can take steps to increase their earnings. Experience, safety, complex projects, high-demand industries, and networking all play a role in achieving higher pay.
- Gain experience and certifications: More skilled riggers often earn more.
- Develop a strong safety record: Fewer accidents lead to higher productivity.
- Take on complex projects: More complex tasks usually require more skill and time.
- Seek roles in high-demand industries: Industries like construction and oil and gas often need experienced riggers.
- Network with other professionals: Building relationships can lead to referrals and job leads.



