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Apprentice Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Outside Machinist II

National City, CA ยท On-site

$22.11 - $32.13/hr

Assists in rigging when necessary. * Other duties as assigned. Requirements: * High School/GED /Apprenticeship Diploma/additional vocational courses or technical school graduate; and/or military and ...

Showing results 41-60

Apprentice Rigger information

What is an apprentice rigger?

Apprentice Riggers are entry-level workers who assist experienced riggers in setting up and securing heavy loads for lifting, moving, or construction projects. They learn to use ropes, pulleys, cranes, and other equipment to safely lift and transport materials. Apprentice Riggers typically work under supervision while gaining hands-on experience and training in safety protocols, load calculations, and proper rigging techniques. Their role is essential in industries like construction, shipping, and entertainment, where precise and secure handling of heavy objects is required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice rigger, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Rigger, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supported by safety training certifications. Familiarity with rigging equipment, hand and power tools, and understanding safety systems like OSHA guidelines are commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure safe and efficient operations on-site. These skills and qualities are crucial for preventing accidents and supporting smooth lifting and assembly tasks in construction and industrial settings.

What are the typical challenges faced by an apprentice rigger, and how can they be addressed?

Apprentice Riggers often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, learning proper safety procedures, and understanding how to use a variety of rigging equipment. It's common to work at heights or in adverse weather conditions, so staying vigilant and proactive about safety is essential. Effective communication and teamwork are also crucial, as riggers frequently coordinate with crane operators, engineers, and other trades. Seeking guidance from experienced riggers and participating in ongoing training can help apprentices overcome these challenges and build confidence in their skills.

What is the difference between Apprentice Rigger vs Rigger?

AspectApprentice RiggerRigger
CertificationsBasic safety and rigging certifications, on-the-job trainingAdvanced rigging certifications, experience-based
Work EnvironmentSupervised, training-focused, construction or industrial sitesIndependent, complex rigging tasks, construction, entertainment, or industrial sites
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with rigging setup, learning safety protocolsPerforming rigging, setting up heavy equipment, ensuring safety standards

In summary, an Apprentice Rigger is in training, focusing on learning rigging basics under supervision, while a Rigger has more experience and handles complex rigging tasks independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rigger jobs in California?

The most popular types of Rigger jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Rigger jobs in California?

For Apprentice Rigger jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Rigger jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Rigger jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice Rigger jobs?

Cities in California with the most Apprentice Rigger job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Rigger job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Machinery Service Technician/Mechanic 1 (Rentals)

Hawthorne Machinery Co.

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$34 - $42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

We Build Better Communities
Be Part of the Hawthorne Difference!
Hawthorne Cat is a family-owned company that has led its markets for over 60 years in the sale, rental, and servicing of construction machinery and power generation equipment for industries on which our communities depend like agriculture, construction, marine, and government.
Every member of our team plays a significant role in our success. Hawthorne Cat hires individuals who share our vision of Building Better Communities with our Customers and our values of Passion, Respect, Integrity, Dedication and Excellence (PRIDE).
If you are looking to build your future with an established, thriving company with countless opportunities for growth and advancement, you've come to the right place! At Hawthorne Cat, we're always looking for exceptionally skilled, hardworking individuals interested in contributing to our success and the success of the communities that we serve.
Our people are our most valuable asset. That's why at Hawthorne Cat we are committed to a comprehensive employee benefit program that helps our employees stay healthy, feel secure, and maintain a work/life balance.
This position will be trained in our Rancho Bernardo location but will eventually be moved to our Kearny Mesa branch when it is open.
POSITION SUMMARY:
As a technician, you are responsible for providing high-quality repairs on Caterpillar and allied equipment. You will diagnose and troubleshoot engines, powertrains, electrical, and hydraulic systems; experience with Cat diagnostic equipment, Cat repair tooling, rigging, and blocking equipment is preferred. Due to the multiple projects, you will be assigned, this position requires planning and organization skills with a particular emphasis on controlling job costs. You will investigate, analyze, and identify the problem to make recommendations that eliminate issues. Our technicians work with a variety of people, communication skills that include strong interpersonal skills, effective writing, basic computer skills, and ability to respond to the lead technicians/management in a positive, caring, and timely manner is required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  1. Analyze and diagnose issues on all Caterpillar and allied equipment.
  2. Remove and install parts, disassemble, and assemble components, and test and adjust assemblies with minimal supervision
  3. Perform Caterpillar updates as directed by Caterpillar, Inc.
  4. Analyze all Caterpillar and allied product equipment systems and components for proper operation in arrangement application based on theory of design.
  5. Effectively communicate with peers and supervisors.
  6. Organize jobs in a logical and economical sequence.
  7. Utilize Cat Interact/ ServiceLink and other systems (computer programs) as required.
  8. Order parts through DBS (Dealer Business System).
  9. Enter labor time daily (DBS).
  10. Perform assigned work within the communicated time quoted/flat rated.
  11. Complete assigned jobs to meet flat rate times with minimal to no rework.
  12. Write service reports that accurately document diagnosis and repairs performed on a daily basis.
  13. Attend toolbox meetings as required.
  14. Adhere to all company policies.
  15. Follow contamination control and OSHA/MSHA rules and regulations.
  16. Perform other duties as directed by lead or Service Supervisor.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS REQUIRED:
  1. High school diploma or equivalent
  2. Two to five (2-5) years of experience in the repair of Caterpillar products, or other heavy equipment.
  3. Prefer to have one of the following:
    1. Successful completion of apprenticeship program.
    2. Graduation from an accredited technical school with emphasis on diesel technology.
  1. General knowledge of basic hand tools, air tools, precision measuring tools and instruments, laptops, diagnostic software and cranes/rigging equipment.
  2. Ability to provide accurate information to lead/supervisor for quoting.
  3. Ability to adapt to changes in the work environment;
  4. Ability to manage competing demands;
  5. Able to change approach or method to best fit the situation;
  6. Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.
  7. Must be able to obtain a passing score for the crane qualification test performed by a qualified Hawthorne trainer for this position.
  8. Ability to work unsupervised efficiently and be part of a team environment.
  9. Must be able to pass the Lock Out / Tag Out & Forklift certification class provided by a qualified Hawthorne trainer for this position.
  10. Performs the position with pride in professionalism while following Hawthorne's code of conduct.
  11. Possesses basic computer knowledge and ability to use service software required in position.
  12. Must have valid California Driver's License with a clean record.
    1. Shop Requirements: Valid California Class "C" driver's license.
    2. Field Requirements: Valid California Class "B" driver's license, if assigned vehicle is required.
  13. Furnish all hand tools required to repair, test and diagnose hydraulic, air, power train, electrical and electronic systems on Caterpillar equipment.

NOTE: Some high dollar value tooling is supplied by Hawthorne.
  1. Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests;
  2. Able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives;
  3. Supports everyone's efforts to succeed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  1. Walking and moving about on foot often through uneven terrain.
  2. Hands/arms operating equipment, hand and power tools.
  3. Lifting: Up to 50 lbs. daily, frequent exertion. Raises or lowers miscellaneous equipment parts and tools.
  4. Handling: Works with hands.
  5. Reaching: Extends hands and arms in any direction.
  6. Standing: Remains in standing position if required for certain repair or maintenance work.
  7. Climbing: In and out of equipment.
  8. Vision: Reads work tickets, parts and service books and operates heavy equipment.
  9. Talking: Communicates via telecommunications, in writing, and in person.
  10. Sitting: Sits in equipment and in vehicles.
  11. Stooping: Bends body downward and forward by bending at knees or waist.
  12. Hearing: Hears well enough to discern mechanical problems for safety in and around shop and construction sites and to receive communication via telecommunications and in person.
  13. Laying: Lies in prone position under vehicles and equipment.

ENVIRONMENTAL:
  1. Noise: Works in conditions with constant or intermittent noise.
  2. Temperatures/Weather: Works in the field, outside with variations of temperature and weather.
  3. Exposure: Foul odors, fumes and harsh substances.

Here's what we Offer...
  • Competitive Compensation
  • A great work environment and culture
  • Career growth and advancement opportunities
  • Training
  • Medical, Dental and Vision plans
  • Medical Video Appointments available
  • Health Savings Account available
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) Pay
  • 401(k) Plan + Company Matching
  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Legal Plan
  • Travel Assistance Plan
  • Wellness Programs
  • Referral Bonus Program
  • Longevity Bonus Program
  • Recognition Programs and much more
  • Hawthorne CAT discounts
  • Boot Reimbursement
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Company-Supplied Uniforms
  • Advanced Technical Training
  • Estimated Compensation $34.00 - $42.00 per hour

Interested in joining the Hawthorne team? Check out our current available positions at:
www.hawthornecat.com/careers
ACCOMMODATIONS: Reasonable accommodations for essential functions of the position will be considered.
Hawthorne Catยฎ is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. M/F/V/D
Hawthorne Catยฎ Participates in E-Verify.