ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Crane Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Orange Corrosion Services Inc

Crane Operator

Orange, CA · On-site

Communicate with riggers, signalers, and gound crew to coordinate lifts. * Adhere to OSHA, and site specific safety standards and procedures. * Monitor crane operations to detect any malfunction or ...

NASSCO

Crane Operator - All Levels

San Diego, CA

$36.50/hr

Crane Operator with extensive Rigging experience preferred. Must be able to comprehend ship nomenclature (decks, port, stbd, fwd, aft, frame number, compartment location, etc.) Must be able to ...

Sealaska

Crane Operator

Vallejo, CA · On-site

Crane Operator - Classification - Operating Engineer - Union (OE3) Friction/Conventional Job ... NCCCO Certification required. • Knowledge of lifting operations, load charts, and rigging ...

Sealaska

Crane Operator

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$34.41 - $68.18/hr

Crane Operator - Classification - Operating Engineer - Union (OE3) Friction/Conventional Job ... NCCCO Certification required. • Knowledge of lifting operations, load charts, and rigging ...

Labor One Staffing

Hiring Journey-Level Riggers

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $33/hr

Gives directions to crane operator engaged in hoisting and moving loads to ensure safety of workers ... Tests ships cranes using various rigging. Ability to interpret all crane load charts and blueprints.

Apply Early

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCrane Rigger JobsCrane Rigger Jobs in California

Crane Rigger information

See California salary details

$19

$27

$37

How much do crane rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane rigger in California is $27.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.27 and $31.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the 3 3 3 rule for cranes?

The 3-3-3 rule for cranes is a safety guideline that recommends a maximum of 3 minutes for crane setup, 3 minutes for lifting, and 3 minutes for dismantling to ensure safe operation. Crane riggers must follow these timeframes along with proper load calculations and safety protocols to prevent accidents on site.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Crane Rigger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crane Rigger, you need a solid understanding of load calculations, rigging techniques, and safety protocols, often backed by a high school diploma and relevant industry certifications such as NCCCO or OSHA Rigging certification. Familiarity with rigging hardware, crane operation systems, and safety equipment is essential in this role. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help Crane Riggers coordinate with crane operators and construction teams under challenging conditions. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient lifting operations and preventing accidents on job sites.

What is the difference between Crane Rigger vs Signal Person?

AspectCrane RiggerSignal Person
Primary RoleAttach, secure, and guide loads for cranesCommunicate signals to crane operators for safe lifting
CertificationsRigger certification, OSHA trainingSignal person certification, OSHA training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial settingsConstruction sites, crane operations
Industry UsageHeavy lifting, rigging operationsCoordination and communication during lifts

While both roles are essential in crane operations, a Crane Rigger focuses on attaching and securing loads, whereas a Signal Person communicates with the crane operator to ensure safe lifting. They often work closely but have distinct responsibilities within the same industry environment.

What Is a Crane Rigger?

A crane rigger is responsible for lifting and moving large or heavy load objects with the use of a crane. These skilled professionals are certified to safely operate this heavy machinery. In this career, you typically works on construction sites such as tall buildings, ships, bridges, and roads. Since the size of the load you are moving with the crane can be dangerous, you must comply with all safety standards as outlined in your certified training. Your job duties include operating the crane equipment and making sure the crane is assembled properly.

Can a crane operator make 300k a year?

Crane operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with top earners in specialized industries or with extensive experience potentially reaching higher salaries. Earning $300,000 a year is uncommon and usually requires advanced skills, certifications, and working in high-paying sectors or overtime hours.

What are some common challenges faced by Crane Riggers on construction sites, and how can they be addressed?

Crane Riggers often encounter challenges such as working in tight or congested spaces, handling heavy or awkward loads, and coordinating closely with crane operators and other team members. To address these, effective communication is essential, as is thorough site planning and ongoing safety training. Familiarity with lifting plans and rigging equipment also helps Riggers anticipate and mitigate potential issues, ensuring tasks are completed safely and efficiently.

What does a crane rigger do?

A crane rigger is responsible for setting up, inspecting, and operating rigging equipment to safely lift and move heavy loads with cranes. They attach slings, hooks, and other hardware to loads, communicate with crane operators, and ensure safety protocols are followed during lifting operations. Certification and knowledge of load calculations are often required for this role.

How much are riggers paid?

Crane riggers typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled riggers with specialized training and certifications tend to earn higher wages, especially in high-demand industries or regions with a high cost of living.
More about Crane Rigger jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Rigger jobs in California? The most popular types of Crane Rigger jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Crane Rigger jobs in California? For Crane Rigger jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Crane Rigger jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Crane Rigger jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Crane Rigger jobs? Cities in California with the most Crane Rigger job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Crane Rigger jobs in CA? For Crane Rigger jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Crane Rigger jobs near you