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Apprentice Rigger Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Apprentice Rigger information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16

$23

$25

How much do apprentice rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice rigger in Chicago, IL is $23.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.03 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Apprentice Riggers?

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 most commonly searched types of Rigger jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Rigger jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Rigger jobs in Chicago, IL? For Apprentice Rigger jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Rigger jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Rigger jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Apprentice Rigger jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Apprentice Rigger job openings:
Maintenance Technician

$39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Progress Rail rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

280th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Purpose
The position's wage rate is $39/hr
Under general supervision by the Maintenance Supervisor, Maintenance Technicians perform general facility maintenance and repair tasks of average to considerable difficulty to ensure that the facility remains in a presentable, operable and efficient condition.
Tasks include ensuring proper working condition of mechanical systems, assist electricians, welding, carpentry, and additional projects and general trades' tasks.
Company Description
Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world's largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in operation across more than 100 countries-powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail-they are making history every day.
Education / Training
• High school diploma or equivalent GED required;
• Completion of a skilled trades apprenticeship preferred;
• Millwright experience in manufacturing corporation preferred.
• Specialized training in a facility maintenance or technical related field preferred;
Key Job Elements
• The Maintenance Technician duties are focused in historical skilled trades crafts;
• Ensure compliance to Caterpillar values in action for all work activities;
• Consistently meet and/or exceed customer expectations by working with a sense of urgency in the performance of all tasks to assure timely completion with a high regard to quality;
• Perform Preventative Maintenance and Corrective Maintenance on a wide range of facility systems including, but not limited to, pumps, motors, filtering devices, air conditioning and heating equipment and other mechanical devices which requires the ability to grasp, hold, bend and twist a wide range of tools, equipment and materials;
• Respond to emergency requests for repair services, diagnoses problems and either immediately make repairs or call on supervision for additional assistance or direction;
• Operate a wide variety of hand tools and powered equipment used in the maintenance of the facility such as saws, drills, torches, sanders, cutters, grinders and other maintenance equipment;
• Perform basic plumbing, electrical, painting, masonry, welding, carpentry, dry wall and other trades related tasks;
• Schedule and monitor the facility Building Automation System (BAS). Make adjustments to thermostats, Variable Air Volume (VAV) boxes and other interior space controls on a regular basis to maintain a comfortable and efficiently maintained environment;
• Perform regular scheduled filter replacement for all building systems;
• Complete maintenance service requests and preventative maintenance in a timely manner. Recommend repairs needed on equipment and facility structures. Prepare and submit time, material and cost reports;
• Accurately maintain maintenance/repair records, inventory logs and replacement schedules for equipment and supplies in the company CMMS or other logs as directed;
• Maintain work area and associated storage in a neat and orderly manner;
• Perform other duties as required.
Qualifications and Experience
• Minimum of five (5) years experience in general facility maintenance, construction, as a Handyman or a related field;
• Proficiency in multiple skilled crafts such as rigging, welding, woodworking, drywall, minor plumbing, minor electrical, painting, tile work, HVAC, mechanical repairs;
• Shall be able to demonstrate knowledge and experience in performing temporary and permanent repairs on a variety of building areas;
• Operational characteristics, services and activities of building maintenance programs including mechanical, welding, painting, carpentry, dry wall, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, grounds keeping, machinery and masonry work;
• Proper use and maintenance of hand and power tools;
• Applicable safety rules and procedures;
• Relevant federal, state, and local regulations.
Essential and Physical Activities Functions
• Strength - Position requires lifting of 50lbs. Requires stamina and strength to work in tight and confined spaces while repairing locomotive or locomotive components;
• Motion - Position requires standing majority of the day. Frequent walking, squatting, kneeling and climbing of steps and stairs;
• Vision/Hearing Requirements - Position is exposed to high levels of noise and vibration from using tools. Position is exposed to cutting torches and welding operations. The use of proper PPE is required. The Position requires the ability to read QWI and schematics and understand instructions;
• Work Environment - Position can be located inside or outside, dependent on situation. When inside, the employee is subject to temperature extremes in non-temperature-controlled environments. When outside employee is subject to all weather elements. In both cases, employees will work with oils, lubricants and other lubricants;
• Emotional Demands - Employee is expected to work and cooperate as part of team in order to meet production requirements;
• Safety - Position is safety sensitive, as it requires working in and around live tracks and operation and repair of heavy equipment. Position requires strict adherence to safety policies (i.e blue flag) and use of all PPE.
Summary Pay Range:
$39/hr to $39.00/hr
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail Services.
Benefits
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.*
  • Competitive Salary
  • 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
  • Group Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with employee and employer contributions
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time-Off (PTO)
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Education Assistance Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs

*Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines.

What Progress Rail employees say

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About Progress Rail

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our team works hard to create lifelong customer relationships, supplying comprehensive rolling stock and infrastructure solutions for the global rail industry and setting the standard for excellence. We care about fostering the sustainable movement of goods and people for generations to come, and we know our customers care, too. Our strategic footprint ensures responsive, quality customer support all day, every day. We are one of the largest integrated diversified providers of rolling stock and infrastructure solutions and technologies for the global rail industry. The company provides advanced EMD® locomotives, engines, and technologies, railcars, trackwork, fasteners, signaling, rail welding and Kershaw® Maintenance-of-Way equipment, along with dedicated locomotive and freight car repair services, aftermarket parts support and recycling operations. Progress Rail’s deep industry expertise ensures a commitment to quality through innovative solutions.

Industry

Consumer goods and commercial equipment rental services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Albertville, AL, US

Year founded

1983