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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 Aug 15, 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 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 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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Apprentice Rigger jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Apprentice Rigger job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Rigger job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,170 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Cellular Tower Technician - Level 1 C

TowerMRL - Advanced Tower Services

Chicago, IL • On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

TowerMRL and Advanced Tower Services have immediate openings for Telecommunication Tower -Level 1 at entry level looking for professional and personal growth while traveling throughout the US. POSITION DOES REQUIRE LOCATION TO OUR COTTAGE GROVE, WI OR ALBUQUERQUE, NM LOCATION WITHIN 60 TO 120 DAYS OF EMPLOYMENT. Telecommunication Tower -Level 1 will learn and be trained perform a wide variety of field specific job duties. We travel throughout the US and although the travel is extensive, we look to schedule employees for 2-3 weeks in the field at a time. Time off is backlogged after each deployment. Employees wanting greater pay have the option for longer assignments. Tower Technicians must have the ability to climb heights in excess of 500 feet, lift more than 50 lbs., and have the ability to travel extensively out of state for extended periods of time, including overnight and weekends. ToweMRL/Advanced Tower Services provides all training and certifications, base pay (including travel time), individual hotel rooms and per diem pay for incidentals for overnight work days. All new employees will undergo a full tower and rescue training prior to first deployment. Tower Technicians have opportunity for extensive overtime and room for advancement.
NEW EMPLOYEES WILL BE REQUIRED TO PASS THE FOLLOWING FOR EMPLOYMENT WITH TowerMRL/Advanced Tower Services.
Preemployment Drug Screening
Pre-employment DOT physical and must be able to obtain a medical card
Integrity Survey
Background Check
Review of Driver Record
Training and Skills Week
BENEFIT PACKAGE
TowerMRL & Advanced Tower Services provides a comprehensive benefits package. The company covers 50% of the benefits including, MEDICAL AND DENTAL as well as self-funded Vision Insurance. Subsidies are also provided for other benefit plans including LONG & SHORT TERM DISABILITY AND LIFE INSURANCE. There is a retirement plan company match based on the employee's salary after eligibility. TowerMRL & Advanced Tower Services provides a Professional Development Programs that offers various outlets such as industry related seminars, conferences, and internal training opportunities.
Hourly Wage - $24.00 to $30.00 per hour - $65,000 to $85,000 Annually
TowerMRL/Advanced Tower Services provides the following additional compensation:
All required fall protection equipment
CLC hotel card for payment of hotel rooms - NO REQUIREMENT TO SHARE A ROOM
$50.00 per day for meals while traveling - this is reimbursed on paychecks - Company does not advance this money under any circumstances
All required safety training
Tool & Boot Allowance - Annually
Cell phone for work and personal use - after 30 days of employment
Company Provide NWSA Credential Testing
Bonus Referral Program - $200 at Hiring - $300 after 6 months of employment
TRAINING:
Tower Technicians will learn the following skills to be able to pass the TIRAP & NWSA credentialing program to become a Telecommunication Tower Apprentice - Level 1.
OSHA 10 (Telecom)
Authorized Climber
Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
Radio Frequency Awareness (RF)
Jobsite Safety Analysis (JSA)
Scope of Work (SOW)
CPR/First Aid/Blood Borne Pathogens
Technical Training
Scope of Work
Basic Rigging
Material Handling
Ropes/Knots
Drills/Saws/Grinders
Operate Trucks/trailers, and equipment
Knowledge of the DOT regulations
Load Securement
Introduction to Various Types of Structures and Appurtenances
Monopole
Self- Support
Guyed
Stealth
Rooftop
Antennas
Responsibilities
Conduct on-site inspections/investigations, including survey and documentation of existing conditions, field testing, photographing, and sketching
Utilize excavation equipment to assist in on-site investigations
Conduct tests to exacting standards as directed
Perform telecommunication tower inspections to include climbing towers in excess of 500 ft.
Organize field data
Perform general repairs, maintenance, upgrades and re-fabrication to towers and other structures as directed
Pick-up and delivery supplies, tools, equipment, components, etc., via company vehicle
Adhere to all Federal, State and Local driving requirements
Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures, as well as additional legal regulatory requirements (i.e., OSHA)
Meticulously adhere to safety procedures and policies while maintaining quality standards
Maintain company vehicle in a clean and presentable condition
Utilize available resources, technology, and tools to complete work
Prioritize and perform job requirements and activities based on open communication with field and management personnel
Extensive travel, 2 - 3 weeks away from base office location (over 95% travel out of state (via air and company vehicle) to include weekends)
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
VALID DRIVER'S LICENSE

High School diploma is required, some college experience preferred
Good analytical and computer skills
Strong technical, written, and oral communication skills
Ability to work independently
Ability to analyze and solve problems
Ability and interest in performing work in the field
Demonstrated willingness to learn
Physical ability and the willingness to climb towers in excess of 500 feet
Physical ability to lift 50 + lbs. and be comfortable working in an outdoor environment in all types of weather
Ability to maintain an effective working relationship with workers, other department employees, and the general public
Some ability to read and interpret sketches and blueprints
Ability to obtain applicable tower climbing certifications
Ability to travel extensively out of state and for extended periods of time (travel required is 95% to include weekends and overnight)
Ability to be covered by company auto insurance plan (e.g. Good Driving Record - No DUI's or suspensions within the last 5 years and no more than 2 traffic violations (with less than 3pts. max on each violation) in the past 3 years)