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Crane And Rigging Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Crane & Rigging Dispatcher LOCATION: Arlington Heights, IL REPORTS TO : Branch Manager FLSA STATUS: Fulltime, Non-Exempt ABOUT US Bay Crane is the leader in crane, rigging, and specialized ...

Rigs equipment, machinery, and material using slings, chain falls, come-alongs, and other rigging ... Completes daily, weekly and monthly crane inspections as required. * Performs general duties as ...

Rigs equipment, machinery, and material using slings, chain falls, come-alongs, and other rigging ... Completes daily, weekly and monthly crane inspections as required. * Performs general duties as ...

The Crane Operator will operate a power-driven crane equipped with a magnet, perform visual ... Knowledge of rigging procedures and regulations * Ability to sit, stand, walk, for extended periods ...

The Crane Operator will operate a power-driven crane equipped with a magnet, perform visual ... Knowledge of rigging procedures and regulations * Ability to sit, stand, walk, for extended periods ...

The Crane Operator will operate a power-driven crane equipped with a magnet, perform visual ... Knowledge of rigging procedures and regulations * Ability to sit, stand, walk, for extended periods ...

Intern

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Review construction methods such as crane rigging and lift plans. * Regularly introspect, seek feedback, and adapt behaviors for ongoing personal development * Utilizes communication skills ...

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Crane And Rigging information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20

$28

$38

How much do crane and rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane and rigging in Chicago, IL is $28.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a crane and rigging job?

Crane and rigging jobs involve operating cranes and setting up rigging equipment to lift, move, and position heavy materials or machinery on construction sites, industrial facilities, or shipyards. Workers in these roles are responsible for ensuring safe and efficient movement of loads, often coordinating with other crew members and following strict safety protocols. They may operate different types of cranes, inspect rigging gear, and calculate load weights to prevent accidents. Training, certifications, and a strong understanding of safety procedures are essential in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crane and rigging specialist?

To thrive as a Crane and Rigging Specialist, you need a solid understanding of load calculations, crane operation, and rigging techniques, typically supported by a high school diploma and completion of a certified training program. Familiarity with crane simulators, load monitoring systems, and possession of certifications such as NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) are commonly required. Strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help ensure safety and effective communication on job sites. These competencies are crucial for preventing accidents, maintaining efficiency, and complying with strict safety regulations in heavy lifting operations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in crane and rigging operations, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Crane and rigging professionals often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, managing heavy loads with precision, and maintaining clear communication in noisy or complex environments. To address these, teams prioritize safety briefings, use standardized hand signals and radios, and conduct thorough site assessments before lifting operations. Ongoing training and close coordination with other construction or site personnel help ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely, minimizing risks and delays.

What is the difference between Crane And Rigging vs Crane Operator?

AspectCrane And RiggingCrane Operator
CertificationsRigging certifications, crane safety trainingCrane operation licenses, certifications
Work EnvironmentPreparing, assembling, and inspecting rigging equipment; assisting with crane setupOperating cranes to lift and move loads
Employer & IndustryConstruction, manufacturing, shippingConstruction, industrial sites, shipping yards

Crane And Rigging professionals focus on rigging setup, safety, and assisting crane operators, while Crane Operators are responsible for the actual operation of cranes. Both roles require safety certifications and are essential in construction and industrial projects, but they differ in daily tasks and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Crane And Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Crane And Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Crane And Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Crane And Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Crane And Rigging job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,788 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Crane & Rigging Dispatcher

Bay Crane Companies

Arlington Heights, IL • On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

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Job description

OPEN POSITION: Crane & Rigging Dispatcher

LOCATION: Arlington Heights, IL
REPORTS TO: Branch Manager
FLSA STATUS: Fulltime, Non-Exempt

ABOUT US

Bay Crane is the leader in crane, rigging, and specialized transportation services, trusted for our commitment to safety, precision, and customer success. With operations spanning the Northeast, Midwest, and beyond, we take pride in supporting complex projects with expertise, reliability, and a people-first approach. Our success is built on the strength of our team, and we are dedicated to creating an environment where employees can thrive.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Crane & Rigging Dispatcher role is a hands-on, operations-focused crane dispatch position responsible for coordinating cranes, operators, drivers, rigging crews, and heavy haul resources for daily job execution.

This role is a strong fit if you have experience dispatching or coordinating:

  • Heavy equipment, construction crews, or field operators
  • Multi-resource jobs with changing timelines and priorities
  • Drivers and operators in DOT- or safety-sensitive environments
  • Operations where real-time decision-making matters more than routine administrative work

This is not a general administrative or call-center dispatch role. The ideal candidate has strong experience dispatching heavy equipment or construction resources and is comfortable learning crane-specific equipment, tonnage considerations, and job sequencing. This role serves as the operational center of the branch, making informed decisions that directly impact utilization, safety, and customer satisfaction.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

  • Assign cranes and equipment, and dispatch operators, drivers, and rigging crews based on job requirements and scheduling constraints.
  • Maintain and update the daily schedule in NexGen (or similar dispatch system) to reflect job requirements, travel time, and equipment availability.
  • Ensure all required documentation — e-tickets, job tickets, lift plans, permits, and time sheets — is accurate and processed on time.
  • Communicate daily with Sales, Service, and Branch Management regarding job status, changes, and special requests.
  • Monitor field operations throughout the day, tracking driver GPS data and checking in with crews to verify progress and address issues proactively.
  • Approve completed tickets and time sheets for billing and payroll.
  • Coordinate with the yard and service teams to stage equipment and minimize downtime.
  • Arrange for outside trucking or heavy haul services when internal resources are unavailable.
  • Ensure compliance with DOT and state regulations, equipment certifications, and operator licensing requirements.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • 2+ years of dispatch experience in crane rental, heavy equipment, construction or industrial operations (required).
  • Working knowledge of cranes, rigging concepts, tonnage, and equipment capabilities.
  • Experience dispatching multi-piece equipment and crews in a fast-paced, job-driven environment
  • Familiarity with crane dispatch software (NexGen preferred) and GPS/fleet tracking systems.
  • Strong operational judgement, problem-solving skills, and ability to prioritize under pressure
  • Excellent problem-solving, time-management, and attention-to-detail abilities.
  • Ability to adapt quickly to changes such as weather delays, mechanical issues, or client schedule shifts.
  • Clear, confident communication style with crews, management and customers.