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Aerial Rigging Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Field Foreman

Benicia, CA · On-site

$37 - $40/hr

... rigging, safety, and general industry knowledge * You possess job-related certifications, like First Aid, Safety, and Rescue * You have the ability to operate aerial lifts, man lifts, skid steers ...

Arbor Groundsman

Milpitas, CA

$19.50 - $25.25/hr

Aerial rescue; safe work practices; proper PPE; hazard recognition; DigAlert procedures and tree removal techniques; basic knots and rope operation for rigging; emergency tree rescue procedures

Arbor Groundsman

Martinez, CA · On-site

$19 - $26.50/hr

Aerial rescue; safe work practices; proper PPE; hazard recognition; DigAlert procedures and tree removal techniques; basic knots and rope operation for rigging; emergency tree rescue procedures

Arbor Groundsman

Livermore, CA

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

Aerial rescue; safe work practices; proper PPE; hazard recognition; DigAlert procedures and tree removal techniques; basic knots and rope operation for rigging; emergency tree rescue procedures

Field Foreman

Benicia, CA · On-site

$37 - $40/hr

... rigging, safety, and general industry knowledge * You possess job-related certifications, like First Aid, Safety, and Rescue * You have the ability to operate aerial lifts, man lifts, skid steers ...

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... rigging, safety, and general industry knowledge * You possess job-related certifications, like First Aid, Safety, and Rescue * You have the ability to operate aerial lifts, man lifts, skid steers ...

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Showing results 1-20

Aerial Rigging information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do aerial rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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 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 professionals in aerial rigging, 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,405 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Arborist Ground Person

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Bartlett Tree Experts rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 28 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

If you enjoy working outdoors in a professional and safe environment, consider a career with Bartlett Tree Experts! At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development.

As an Arborist Ground Person, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working alongside Bartlett's dedicated team of arborists, gaining practical field experience in scientific tree and shrub care on commercial and residential properties. This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on, on-the-job training.


  • $22.00 - $26.00 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 Ground Person, you will play an important role in:

  • Learning through on-the-job training to safely perform all aspects of arboriculture, including:
    • Pruning trees
    • Rigging
    • Cabling and bracing
    • Removal of hazardous trees
    • Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts)
    • Implementing work zone safety procedures
    • Assisting Arborist Climbers and Arborist Crew Leaders working on the ground and aloft
    • Assisting with driving, backing, dumping, and parking duties
  • Learning, understanding, and adhering to all safety rules and company safety policies

  • A passion for nature, the environment, and the outdoors
  • Interest in working outdoors year-round performing manual labor in all weather conditions
  • A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to participate within a multi-disciplinary team
  • Prior tree care, landscaping, forestry, or horticulture experience is preferred but not required
  • Valid driver's license
  • Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, Environmental Science or a related field is preferred but not required

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


Santa Monica
CA
Production Arborist
10/27/2025
Regular Full-Time

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