How much does a Rigger make?
A Rigger plays a crucial role in many industries, from construction to film production. This profession involves lifting and securing heavy equipment, ensuring safety on the job site. The average yearly salary for a Rigger is around $54,259. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
Riggers with less experience might start at lower salaries, but with time and skill, they can see their earnings increase. Here is a snapshot of potential salaries at different experience levels:
- Entry-level Riggers can earn about $32,830 per year.
- Those with a few years of experience may make around $47,058 annually.
- Mid-career Riggers often see salaries ranging from $56,544 to $66,029.
- Experienced professionals can earn up to $85,000 or more per year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Rigger?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $74,906
Riggers in San Francisco work on diverse projects with large firms like TransDigm Group. The city's tech industry means plenty of opportunities. Skilled riggers are in demand for construction and events.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $70,945
Fort Collins offers a stable environment for riggers, with notable companies like Lockheed Martin. The area's growing tech and renewable energy sectors create steady job opportunities. Riggers benefit from a good work-life balance.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $69,649
In Los Angeles, riggers are crucial for the city's entertainment and construction industries. Companies like Northrop Grumman offer dynamic roles. Los Angeles provides a variety of projects that keep riggers busy.
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Odessa, TX
Average Salary: $69,050
Odessa, Texas, is a hub for riggers, with major employers in the oil and gas industry. The Permian Basin offers numerous opportunities. The demand for skilled riggers is high in this region.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $68,916
Las Vegas offers a vibrant atmosphere for riggers, with many projects in the hospitality and entertainment sectors. Companies such as MGM Resorts provide dynamic work environments. The city's growth ensures a steady demand for riggers.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $68,292
Seattle riggers work in a bustling market, with prominent companies like Boeing. The tech industry and maritime work create diverse projects. Seattle offers a strong economy and plenty of job opportunities.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $67,830
Corpus Christi offers diverse roles for riggers, with key employers in the energy sector. The city's port and industrial zones provide steady work. The demand for riggers is strong here.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $59,572
Riggers in Portland benefit from the city's diverse economy. Companies like Intel offer numerous opportunities. The city's strong focus on sustainability creates a need for skilled riggers.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $59,331
Philadelphia provides a wealth of opportunities for riggers, with large firms like Lockheed Martin. The city's industrial sector offers plenty of work. Riggers can find stable roles in various industries.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $59,056
San Diego offers a dynamic environment for riggers, with key employers in the defense and maritime sectors. The city's strong economy ensures plenty of work. Riggers can expect a variety of interesting projects.
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What are the best companies a Rigger can work for?

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MasTec Industrial
Average Salary: $73,933
MasTec Industrial offers exciting opportunities for Rigger jobs. They provide services across various industries, including construction and energy. Locations include the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean. Their Riggers play a key role in ensuring safety and efficiency on job sites.
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General Dynamics Electric Boat
Average Salary: $68,698
At General Dynamics Electric Boat, Riggers work in advanced shipbuilding and maintenance. They are responsible for lifting and moving heavy equipment. The company operates in the U.S. and is known for its high-tech projects. Riggers here gain valuable experience in a dynamic environment.
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Sterling Crane
Average Salary: $67,089
Sterling Crane provides Rigger jobs with a focus on construction, maintenance, and repair. They operate in the U.S. and Canada. Working as a Rigger here means dealing with complex projects and advanced machinery. The company values safety and skill in its employees.
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Hardhat Workforce Solutions
Average Salary: $61,250
Hardhat Workforce Solutions offers various positions for Riggers in construction and energy sectors. They operate across the U.S. Their Riggers are vital in lifting and moving heavy materials. They focus on providing a safe and productive work environment.
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Encore Global
Average Salary: $61,170
Encore Global offers Rigger jobs in the construction and oil & gas sectors. They operate in the U.S. and have various projects that require skilled Riggers. Working here means being part of a team that ensures smooth and safe operations on job sites.
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TIC - The Industrial Company
Average Salary: $60,457
TIC - The Industrial Company provides Rigger positions in construction and manufacturing. They operate in the U.S. and value skilled professionals who can handle heavy lifting tasks. Their Riggers are essential in maintaining safety and efficiency on projects.
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Omega Morgan
Average Salary: $59,556
Omega Morgan offers Rigger jobs in the construction and manufacturing sectors. They operate across the U.S. Their Riggers work on various projects, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of materials. This company values skilled and experienced professionals.
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General Dynamics NASSCO
Average Salary: $59,087
General Dynamics NASSCO provides Rigger jobs in shipbuilding and repair. They operate in the U.S. Their Riggers handle heavy equipment and materials, ensuring projects are completed safely. This company is known for its commitment to quality and safety.
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Brown and Root Industrial Services
Average Salary: $58,238
Brown and Root Industrial Services offers Rigger positions in the construction and energy sectors. They operate in the U.S. Their Riggers work on various projects, handling heavy materials and equipment. This company emphasizes teamwork and safety in its operations.
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ProLift Rigging
Average Salary: $57,185
ProLift Rigging provides Rigger jobs in the construction and manufacturing sectors. They operate in the U.S. Their Riggers are essential in lifting and moving heavy materials safely. This company values skilled professionals who can work in various environments.
How to earn more as a Rigger?
A Rigger can increase earnings through various avenues that involve skills, certifications, and job performance. Securing higher-paying jobs often means taking on more responsibility and expertise. For example, Riggers who can handle complex rigging tasks, such as working with cranes or heavy machinery, often earn more. They should also focus on safety and efficiency, as employers value workers who can complete tasks quickly and without incident.
Becoming certified can also lead to higher earnings. Certifications from recognized organizations show a Rigger's competence and dedication to their craft. They can lead to more opportunities and higher pay. Some certifications to consider include those from the International Union of Operating Engineers or the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators. Networking with other professionals and joining industry associations can also open doors to higher-paying jobs. Attending industry conferences and workshops can also lead to new job prospects and better-paying roles.
Consider these factors to boost earnings as a Rigger:
- Gain experience with complex rigging tasks.
- Obtain relevant certifications.
- Focus on safety and efficiency on the job.
- Network with other industry professionals.
- Stay updated with industry trends and technologies.



