How much does a Rigger make?
A Rigger plays a key role in the construction and entertainment industries. They set up and operate heavy machinery, ensuring everything runs smoothly and safely. The average yearly salary for a Rigger is around $54,035. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
Riggers often start with salaries on the lower end of the scale. As they gain experience, their earnings can increase significantly. For example, those with more than 10 years in the field may earn closer to the higher end of the salary range. This growth potential makes it a rewarding career for those willing to invest time and effort.
What are the highest paying cities for a Rigger?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $84,593
In Los Angeles, professionals in this field work in a bustling environment with many opportunities in the entertainment industry. Companies like Disney and Universal Studios often need skilled workers to handle large-scale productions.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $73,089
San Francisco offers a dynamic job market with many tech companies and startups. Working here means you'll be part of innovative projects, often collaborating with engineers and designers.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $68,292
Seattle is known for its tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft. Professionals here enjoy a mix of urban and natural settings, with plenty of opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $67,084
Las Vegas provides a unique setting with many entertainment venues and casinos. Working here means you'll be part of a vibrant industry, often dealing with high-profile events and productions.
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Odessa, TX
Average Salary: $65,934
Odessa offers a more laid-back environment with many opportunities in the oil and gas industry. Companies like ExxonMobil and Chevron provide stable work with good benefits.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $58,792
Philadelphia has a rich industrial history with many opportunities in manufacturing and logistics. Working here means you'll be part of a community that values skilled labor and craftsmanship.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $58,375
San Diego offers a mix of military, biotech, and tourism industries. Professionals here enjoy a pleasant climate and a strong sense of community, often working in collaborative environments.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $58,072
Portland is known for its progressive culture and vibrant arts scene. Working here means you'll be part of a community that values sustainability and creativity, often collaborating with local artists and designers.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $57,949
Houston is a major hub for the energy industry, with many opportunities in oil and gas. Companies like Shell and BP offer stable work with good benefits, often in a fast-paced environment.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $56,887
Corpus Christi offers a mix of maritime and industrial opportunities. Working here means you'll be part of a community that values skilled labor, often dealing with large-scale projects and equipment.
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What are the best companies a Rigger can work for?

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PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC
Average Salary: $73,930
PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC offers exciting opportunities for Riggers. They work on various projects across the United States, including locations like Houston, Texas, and Los Angeles, California. The company values skilled professionals and provides competitive salaries.
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MasTec Industrial
Average Salary: $72,704
MasTec Industrial is a leading company in the industry, offering Rigger positions with a strong focus on safety and innovation. They operate in multiple states, including Florida and New York. Job seekers can expect a rewarding career with excellent benefits.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $69,900
BAE Systems USA provides Rigger jobs with a focus on advanced technology and engineering. They work in various locations, such as Virginia and Maryland. The company offers a supportive environment and competitive pay.
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Kinsley Construction
Average Salary: $64,711
Kinsley Construction offers Rigger positions with a strong emphasis on teamwork and quality. They operate in states like Ohio and Pennsylvania. The company provides a stable work environment and good compensation.
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Austin Industrial
Average Salary: $64,279
Austin Industrial is known for its commitment to excellence in Rigger jobs. They work in Texas and other states. The company offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth.
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Tradesmen International
Average Salary: $64,137
Tradesmen International provides Rigger positions with a focus on craftsmanship and reliability. They operate in multiple states, including Illinois and Michigan. The company offers a supportive team and competitive salaries.
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Vigor, LLC
Average Salary: $63,506
Vigor, LLC offers Rigger jobs with a strong emphasis on safety and innovation. They work in states like Oregon and Washington. The company provides a stable work environment and good compensation.
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Sterling Crane
Average Salary: $62,819
Sterling Crane provides Rigger positions with a focus on quality and reliability. They operate in various states, including California and New York. The company offers a supportive team and competitive salaries.
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Encore Global
Average Salary: $61,705
Encore Global offers Rigger jobs with a strong emphasis on teamwork and quality. They work in states like Florida and Texas. The company provides a stable work environment and good compensation.
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TIC - The Industrial Company
Average Salary: $60,521
TIC - The Industrial Company provides Rigger positions with a focus on innovation and reliability. They operate in multiple states, including New York and California. The company offers a supportive team and competitive salaries.
How to earn more as a Rigger?
Becoming a skilled rigger can lead to higher earnings. To achieve this, focus on several key factors. First, gaining experience in different industries can open up more job opportunities. Each industry has unique challenges and requirements, which can make a rigger more versatile and valuable.
Second, obtaining certifications can boost earning potential. Certifications from recognized organizations show a commitment to safety and expertise. They can also lead to higher-paying positions. Third, staying updated with the latest rigging techniques and tools can make a rigger more efficient and effective. This can lead to quicker job completion and higher pay rates. Fourth, networking with other professionals can lead to job referrals and recommendations. Building a strong professional network can uncover hidden job opportunities and lead to higher-paying roles. Lastly, continuously improving skills through training and education can lead to promotions and higher salaries.
By focusing on these factors, a rigger can increase their earning potential. Experience, certifications, staying updated, networking, and continuous learning all play a role in achieving higher pay.
- Gain experience in different industries
- Obtain certifications
- Stay updated with the latest techniques and tools
- Network with other professionals
- Continuously improve skills through training and education