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Aerial Rigging Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Arborist Crew Leader

Concord, CA · On-site

$35 - $53/hr

Rigging * Removals * Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts) * Bringing a cooperative and enthusiastic attitude to the job site * Supervising ...

Arborist Crew Leader

Escondido, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Rigging * Removals * Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts) * Bringing a cooperative and enthusiastic attitude to the job site * Supervising ...

Arborist Crew Leader

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Rigging * Removals * Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts) * Bringing a cooperative and enthusiastic attitude to the job site * Supervising ...

Arborist Crew Leader

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$33 - $53/hr

Rigging * Removals * Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts) * Bringing a cooperative and enthusiastic attitude to the job site * Supervising ...

Arborist Crew Leader

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Rigging * Removals * Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts) * Bringing a cooperative and enthusiastic attitude to the job site * Supervising ...

Arborist Crew Leader

San Gabriel, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Rigging * Removals * Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts) * Bringing a cooperative and enthusiastic attitude to the job site * Supervising ...

Arborist Crew Leader

Escondido, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Rigging * Removals * Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts) * Bringing a cooperative and enthusiastic attitude to the job site * Supervising ...

Utility Arborist

Redding, CA · On-site

$104K/yr

Operate aerial devices, brush chippers, and work from elevated platforms. * Trim, shape and remove ... rigging, other hand tools and equipment. * Clear and remove limbs, branches, and vegetation in ...

Showing results 21-40

Aerial Rigging information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do aerial rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial rigging in California is $25.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is aerial rigging?

Aerial rigging refers to the setup and securing of equipment such as ropes, cables, harnesses, and hardware used to safely suspend performers and apparatuses in the air for activities like aerial arts, circus performances, or stage productions. Aerial riggers are responsible for ensuring that all equipment meets strict safety standards and is properly installed to prevent accidents. They assess load capacities, select appropriate anchor points, and maintain all gear to ensure the safety of performers and crew. Proper aerial rigging is essential for both the artistic effect and the safety of aerial acts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerial rigger?

To thrive as an Aerial Rigger, you need a solid understanding of physics, mechanical systems, and safety protocols, often supported by certifications such as ETCP or SPRAT. Familiarity with rigging hardware, load calculation software, and safety inspection systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable rigging operations in theatrical, entertainment, or industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by aerial riggers, and how can they be addressed?

Aerial rigging professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to different venues with unique structural limitations, ensuring strict safety compliance, and coordinating with performers and production teams. Addressing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, continuous communication with all stakeholders, and staying current with industry safety standards. Regular equipment inspections and thorough planning before each setup are also critical to ensuring both efficiency and safety on the job.

What is the difference between Aerial Rigging vs Stage Rigging?

AspectAerial RiggingStage Rigging
CertificationsRigging certifications, aerial safety trainingRigging certifications, theatrical safety training
Work EnvironmentPerformances, aerial acts, outdoor eventsTheatrical productions, concerts, indoor venues
Industry UsageCirque shows, aerial performances, festivalsTheatre productions, concerts, live events

Both Aerial Rigging and Stage Rigging require rigging certifications and safety training. Aerial Rigging focuses on supporting performers in aerial acts, often outdoors or in performance venues, while Stage Rigging is centered on supporting scenery, lighting, and equipment in theatrical and concert settings. Although they share similar skills, their specific environments and applications differ.

What are popular job titles related to Aerial Rigging jobs in California?

For Aerial Rigging jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aerial Rigging jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Aerial Rigging jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Aerial Rigging job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 24% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,405 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Arborist Crew Leader

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Bartlett Tree Experts
Forestry • 1 - 5K employees

$33 - $53/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Bartlett Tree Experts rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Are you an experienced Arborist looking to take your career to the next level? As an Arborist Crew Leader, you will be an integral member of the team, serving as the leader of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of performing all tree care services safely and efficiently. This is a unique opportunity to share your passion for tree care by enhancing the skills, performance, and productivity of other team members within your office. 


  • $33.00 - $53.00 per hour
  • A safety-first culture and professional workplace
  • Advancement opportunities - we promote from within
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Industry credential/license pay increases - we encourage and invest in your professional development
  • Company provided uniforms, PPE, gear, and equipment
  • Boot reimbursement up to $150
  • Access to training, continuing education programs, and a variety of resources provided by the Bartlett Tree Experts Research Laboratories in Charlotte, NC

To find out more about what life is like at Bartlett, check us out on Instagram @LifeatBartlett. 


As an Arborist Crew Leader, you will play an important role in:

  • Safely performing and supervising all aspects of arboriculture, including:
    • Pruning
    • Cabling and bracing
    • Rigging
    • Removals
    • Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts)
  • Bringing a cooperative and enthusiastic attitude to the job site
  • Supervising and managing crews while performing tree care services, as directed by the Arborist Representative and Local Manager
  • Ensuring that each crew member is trained appropriately for each designated job assignment
  • Ensuring that all tree care work is performed in accordance with industry and company standards
  • Communicating, answering questions, and building relationships with clients

  • A passion for nature, the environment, and the outdoors
  • At least three (3) years of tree climbing (DdRT or SRT) and aerial lift experience in the tree care industry
  • Valid driver's license (Class B CDL preferred)
  • Ability to work outdoors year-round in all weather conditions
  • Proven initiative, positive attitude, team-oriented, and self-motivated

The F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.


San Francisco
CA
Production Arborist
7/31/2026
Regular Full-Time

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