Rigger
$23.25 - $30/hr
Operate forklifts and aerial lifts. JOURNEYPERSON 1 (Rigging): * Assist in attaching hoist and ... pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts or ...
Rigger
$23.25 - $30/hr
Operate forklifts and aerial lifts. JOURNEYPERSON 1 (Rigging): * Assist in attaching hoist and ... pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts or ...
Rigger
$23.25 - $30/hr
Operate forklifts and aerial lifts. JOURNEYPERSON 1 (Rigging): * Assist in attaching hoist and ... pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts or ...
Rigger
$23.25 - $30/hr
Operate forklifts and aerial lifts. JOURNEYPERSON 1 (Rigging): * Assist in attaching hoist and ... pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts or ...
Rigger
$23.25 - $30/hr
Operate forklifts and aerial lifts. JOURNEYPERSON 1 (Rigging): * Assist in attaching hoist and ... pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts or ...
Rigger
$23.25 - $30/hr
Operate forklifts and aerial lifts. JOURNEYPERSON 1 (Rigging): * Assist in attaching hoist and ... pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts or ...
Rigger 3
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$23 - $29.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 3
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$23 - $29.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
Bowling Green, VA · On-site
$24 - $28/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
Bowling Green, VA · On-site
$24 - $28/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
Temple, TX · On-site
$22.25 - $28.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
Temple, TX · On-site
$22.25 - $28.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 3
$22.25 - $28.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 3
$22.25 - $28.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 3
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$23 - $29.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 3
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$23 - $29.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
VA · On-site
$23.50 - $30.50/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
VA · On-site
$23.50 - $30.50/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
$23 - $29.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
$23 - $29.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
Rock Hill, SC · On-site
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
Rock Hill, SC · On-site
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 3
Rock Hill, SC · On-site
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 3
Rock Hill, SC · On-site
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 3
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 3
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
Rock Hill, SC · On-site
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
Rock Hill, SC · On-site
$20 - $25.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
Temple, TX · On-site
$22.25 - $28.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
Temple, TX · On-site
$22.25 - $28.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 1
Temple, TX · On-site
$22.25 - $28.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 1
Temple, TX · On-site
$22.25 - $28.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 3
$23 - $29.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 3
$23 - $29.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
$22.25 - $28.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Rigger 2
$22.25 - $28.75/hr
As a Rigger, you will be required to prepare the materials before loading, set up the rigging ... Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial ...
Aerial Rigger information
See salary details
$14.18 - $16.22
1% of jobs
$16.22 - $18.25
6% of jobs
$18.25 - $20.28
5% of jobs
$20.28 - $22.31
6% of jobs
$23.09 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$22.31 - $24.34
16% of jobs
The median wage is $25.57 / hr.
$24.34 - $26.38
25% of jobs
$26.38 - $28.41
14% of jobs
$28.83 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$28.41 - $30.44
6% of jobs
$30.44 - $32.47
16% of jobs
$32.47 - $34.51
3% of jobs
$34.51 - $36.54
1% of jobs
$14
$26
$36
How much do aerial rigger jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial rigger in the United States is $26.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are aerial riggers?
Aerial riggers are specialized technicians responsible for installing, maintaining, and inspecting the rigging systems used in aerial performances, such as circus acts, theatrical productions, and live events. They ensure that all equipment, including ropes, harnesses, pulleys, and support structures, are safe and secure for performers working at heights. Their expertise is crucial for preventing accidents and enabling complex aerial stunts. Aerial riggers often work closely with performers and production teams to meet the specific needs of each show and venue.
What is an antenna rigger?
An antenna rigger is a skilled worker responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing antennas and related equipment, often at heights or in challenging environments. They use tools such as cranes, lifts, and safety harnesses and typically require certifications in fall protection and rigging. The role involves working outdoors and adhering to safety standards to ensure proper signal transmission and reception.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerial Rigger, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Aerial Rigger, you need a solid understanding of rigging principles, mechanical aptitude, and typically a background in theatrical or circus rigging with relevant safety certifications. Familiarity with rigging hardware, fall protection systems, and standards such as OSHA or ETCP certification is important. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient setup and operation of aerial equipment, protecting both performers and crew in demanding entertainment environments.
Is being a rigger a good career?
Aerial riggers are responsible for installing and maintaining lifting equipment, often working at heights and in demanding environments. The career can be physically demanding and requires specialized training and certifications, but it offers opportunities for steady employment and advancement in construction, entertainment, or industrial sectors.
What is the difference between Aerial Rigger vs Tower Rigger?
| Aspect | Aerial Rigger | Tower Rigger |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | OSHA certifications, rigging licenses | OSHA certifications, rigging licenses |
| Work Environment | Construction sites, utility poles, aerial work | Cell towers, communication towers, tall structures |
| Industry Usage | Telecommunications, utilities, construction | Telecom, broadcasting, utilities |
Both Aerial Riggers and Tower Riggers require similar certifications and work in outdoor, elevated environments. Aerial Riggers focus on installing and maintaining equipment in aerial or utility pole settings, while Tower Riggers specialize in assembling and maintaining tall communication towers. The roles overlap in skills and safety requirements but differ mainly in work setting and specific industry applications.
What are some common challenges an Aerial Rigger may face when working on live events or productions?
Aerial Riggers often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing site conditions, ensuring safety compliance under tight deadlines, and coordinating with multiple departments like lighting, sound, and performers. They must be adept at problem-solving on the fly, as unforeseen obstacles—like weather changes or last-minute rigging adjustments—can arise. Clear communication and teamwork are crucial, as Riggers frequently collaborate with event producers, stage managers, and performers to ensure that all aerial elements are safely and efficiently installed and operated.
What is the highest paying rigger job?
The highest paying rigger jobs are often in specialized fields such as industrial or theatrical rigging, or in offshore oil and gas industries, where salaries can exceed $80,000 to $100,000 annually. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, complex environments, and the use of advanced equipment or heavy lifts.
How much do riggers make a month?
Aerial riggers typically earn between $3,000 and $6,000 per month, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized tools may earn higher wages, especially in high-demand industries or remote areas.
More about Aerial Rigger jobs
What states have the most Aerial Rigger jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerial Rigger jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aerial Rigger jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aerial Rigger jobs are:
Job description
Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking Riggers for work in Norfolk, VA, Chesapeake, VA, Portsmouth, VA, and Hampton, VA shipyards.
Job Duties
- Fabricates, installs and repairs rigging and weight handling gear on ships.
- Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts and order heavy loads aboard ships.
- Selects and attaches chainfalls, jacks, rollers, levers and/or pulleys according to types of loads being moved.
- Signals cranes or other equipment to move loads.
- Controls movement of heavy equipment through narrow openings or in confined spaces.
- Lays out and handles lines on cleats or bollards and hauls in ships with capstans when assisting dock master in ship dry docking operations.
- Installs or repairs ships’ rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment.
- Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats.
- Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required.
- Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ropes, steamboat jacks, hydraulic jacks, turnbuckles, rollers, chainfalls, clamps, swivels, crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts.
- Splice natural and synthetic ropes, tying knots, use of electric, pneumatic and hand powered tools.
- Knowledge of OSHA standards.
JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging):
- Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts and other heavy loads aboard ship.
- Selects and attaches chainfalls, jacks, rollers, lever and/or pulleys according to types of loads being moved.
- Signals cranes or other equipment to move loads, controls movement of heavy equipment through narrow openings or in confined spaces.
- Handles lines on cleats or bollards when assisting the dock master in ship dry docking operations.
- Moves barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats.
- Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required.
- Knowledge of OSHA standards.
JOURNEYPERSON 2 (Rigging):
- Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts and other heavy loads aboard ships.
- Signals cranes or other equipment to move loads.
- Controls movement of equipment through narrow openings or in confined spaces, handles lines on cleats or bollards when assisting the dock master in the ship dry docking operations.
- Moves barges and derricks with tug boats.
- Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required.
- Knowledge of shackles, chainfalls, natural, synthetic and wire ropes, turnbuckles, rollers, clamps and crane signals.
- Splice natural and synthetic ropes tying knots.
- Use if electric, pneumatic and hand tools.
- Operate forklifts and aerial lifts.
JOURNEYPERSON 1 (Rigging):
- Assist in attaching hoist and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts or other loads abroad ship.
- Assist in the movement of equipment through narrow openings or in confined spaces.
- Assist in line handling operations, assist in the erection of staging in tanks, above decks, on mast, yardarms and ship’s sides.
- Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required.
- Knowledge of shackles, chainfalls, natural, synthetic and wire ropes, turnbuckles, rollers, clamps and crane signals.
- Splicing natural ropes.
- Tying knots operate forklifts and aerial lifts.
- Use of hand tools.
About Tidewater Staffing
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.” Our deep industry experience and established local presence allow us to maintain a consistent, updated, and expansive network of skilled candidates, and our proprietary digital onboarding process. When you partner with Tidewater Staffing, you get employees who are trained, screened, supplied, and access to our proprietary digital onboarding process.
Industry
Recruiting and staffing services
Company size
51 - 200 Employees
Headquarters location
Virginia Beach, VA, US
Year founded
1992