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Apprentice Rigger Jobs in Suffolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

Responsible for developing a variety of training programs outside of the apprentice track. Directly ... rigging and other skilled/semi-skilled positions as required. * Workforce Assessment: Identify ...

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... Riggers Crane Operators Sandblasters Marine Painters Insulators Sheet Metal Mechanics HVAC ... Relevant trade certifications or completion of a recognized apprenticeship program. What We Offer ...

Responsible for developing a variety of training programs outside of the apprentice track. Directly ... rigging and other skilled/semi-skilled positions as required. * Workforce Assessment: Identify ...

New

Helper

Hampton, VA · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Follow all safety, quality, security, personal protective equipment, lifting, rigging, hot-work ... Vocational, technical-school, apprenticeship-readiness, or military training related to ...

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Apprentice Rigger information

See Suffolk, VA salary details

$14

$21

$23

How much do apprentice rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice rigger in Suffolk, VA is $21.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.25 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Suffolk, VA?

The most popular types of Rigger jobs in Suffolk, VA are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Rigger jobs in Suffolk, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Rigger jobs in Suffolk, VA are:

What cities near Suffolk, VA are hiring for Apprentice Rigger jobs?

Cities near Suffolk, VA with the most Apprentice Rigger job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Rigger job openings in Suffolk, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,483 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform operational, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of shipboard mechanical systems across multiple platforms.

  • Install, test, and support commissioning of shipboard mechanical systems including piping, pumps, valves, hydraulics, and rotating machinery.

  • Document maintenance activities, provide technical briefs, and collaborate with technical teams to execute projects.


Job description

Position: Mechanical Technician II
Location: Norfolk, VA
Company Overview:
Continental Tide Defense Systems, Inc. (Continental Tide) is an industry leader, providing engineering and industrial services to the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and other DoD organizations. At Continental Tide, we understand that a great company culture is one where employees know their voice is heard, no matter what their title is, and letting them grow in their role as the company does. We want to provide our employees with the opportunity to learn, be challenged and be in a position where they can succeed, develop new skills, and do things they wouldn't have the opportunity to do elsewhere. Our fast-paced and challenging environment, employees here at Continental Tide can catapult themselves to the top and we’re looking for 'the best at what they do' to join our team and help us grow!

*Please note due to the anticipated volume of responses, we will contact only those candidates who most closely match our requirements. Only local candidates will be considered. Veteran and retired candidates welcome!
Job Overview:
Continental Tide is seeking an experienced and skilled Mechanical Technician II to join our Fleet Services Group in Norfolk, VA to support of ship repair, modernization, and Alteration Installation Team (AIT) projects. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience performing shipboard mechanical system maintenance, installation, troubleshooting, and repair. This position involves working in a dynamic maritime environment aboard U.S. Navy and other military vessels.
Essential duties amp; responsibilities includes, but in not limited to the following:
  • Perform operational, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of shipboard mechanical systems across multiple platforms.
  • Perform diagnostic troubleshooting and routine maintenance on shipboard systems to identify faults, restore functionality, and ensure long-term performance.
  • identifying parts for replacement and machines that need new parts and placing orders as necessary.
  • Interpret and comprehend blueprints, schematics, specifications.
  • Install and test shipboard mechanical systems including piping, pumps, valves, hydraulics, and rotating machinery.
  • Conduct system testing, calibration, and support commissioning of equipment and systems.
  • Apply a comprehensive understanding of production methods and maintenance protocols to ensure quality and performance compliance.
  • Accurately document and report maintenance and repair activities using quality assurance records and provide technical briefs to supervisors and clients.
  • Train and mentor coworkers and customers on equipment operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting techniques.
  • Collaborate with engineering staff, welders, electricians, and technical teams to execute multi-discipline projects.
  • Follow all safety regulations, using appropriate PPE and adhering to lockout/tagout (LOTO) and shipboard safety protocols.
  • Participate in shipboard inspections, alterations, upgrades, and configuration management in accordance with NAVSEA and DoD standards.
  • Utilize knowledge and skills for qualifying as a Journeyman Marine Mechanic in accordance with (IAW).
  • Perform additional duties outside of your standard responsibilities as needed to support production and project completion.
Requirements:
  • Must possess a Rigging Certification
  • Target 5-10 years of experience in rigging amp; shipboard maintenance amp; repair. (Education may be used lieu of experience: Associates=2 years, 4 years of an apprenticeship=6years amp; a bachelor's degree =8 years)
  • Ability to read/understand complex standard Navy drawings, blueprints, sketches.
  • Skilled at reading and comprehending OEM Type Equipment Technical Manuals.
  • Operate and troubleshoot complex systems and system components utilizing approved operating doctrine.
  • Ability to analyze and effect repairs as required using the appropriate tooling/equipment IOT correct the problem.
  • Familiar with constructing, maintaining, repairing, and testing mechanical equipment, machinery, and components.
  • Familiar with identifying parts for replacement and machines that need new parts and placing orders as necessary.
  • Able to utilize Chainfalls, Straps, Hoists, Turnbuckles, and other ancillary rigging equipment.
  • Applicant must be familiar with NAVSEA, standard concepts, practices, and procedures.
  • Must be able to understand, read, and communicate in English as required for job instructions, safety information, and team communication.
  • Must possess basic hand tools.
  • Travel of up to 25% may be required within and outside of the continental United States
  • Must be able to pass an Audiogram, Respirator Fit Test, amp; physical..
  • Applicant must be familiar with NAVSEA, standard concepts, practices, and procedures.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Physical requirements:
  • Exposure to open-air environments, including noisy, hot, and cold conditions.
  • Required to visit project sites aboard ships and rigs, both onshore and offshore.
  • Must wear various types of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hearing, eye, head, and hand protection, as required.
  • Site visits may involve standing on a variety of surfaces and angles, bending, crouching, and climbing over obstructions such as scaffolding, ladders, and internal barge or boat structural components.
  • Exposure to sound levels exceeding 100 decibels.
  • Must possess sufficient visual acuity, peripheral vision, depth perception, and night vision to inspect maritime components and systems, identify defects or irregularities, and safely operate tools and equipment.
  • May work in confined spaces with limited ventilation.
  • Requires prolonged periods of sedentary work, including sitting and/or standing.
  • May be required to operate machinery, power tools, and/or heavy equipment.
  • Frequent exposure to extreme weather conditions, including high heat and cold.
  • Must be able to lift to 30 lbs., or more, climb ladders, and work in confined or elevated areas.
  • Must be physically able to ride ships at sea for extended periods, including withstanding ship motion and working in various sea conditions.
Reasonable Accommodations Statement:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must perform the essential job duties satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a direct threat to the safety or health of employee or others. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Benefits:
Continental Tide offers an empowering professional environment in a culture that emphasizes teamwork, shared responsibility for company and client success, and personal growth. We offer competitive wages in salaried and hourly positions, educational opportunities, competitive employee benefit options, and 401K plan with company match.

Apply Today:
If you’re ready to make a difference, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our mission to deliver quality solutions to the Fleet.
Continental Tide is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify and U.S. citizenship is required for most positions. Continental Tide prohibits discrimination against any protected class from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs. Consistent with these obligations, Continental Tide also provides reasonable accommodations to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for sincerely held religious beliefs, observances, and practices.
Continental Tides Defense Systems, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran”.
“This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.”