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Crane Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Rigger - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$35.25/hr

Crane and Rigging Manager SUPERVISES: N/A AUTHORITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES: * Must be technically proficient in tasks, work processes, and safe use of rigging equipment * Will be held accountable for ...

Rigger - SDCA

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$35.25/hr

Crane and Rigging Manager SUPERVISES: N/A AUTHORITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES: * Must be technically proficient in tasks, work processes, and safe use of rigging equipment * Will be held accountable for ...

Rigger - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$35.25/hr

Crane and Rigging Manager SUPERVISES: N/A AUTHORITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES: * Must be technically proficient in tasks, work processes, and safe use of rigging equipment * Will be held accountable for ...

Crane and Rigging Manager SUPERVISES: N/A AUTHORITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES: * Must be technically proficient in tasks, work processes, and safe use of rigging equipment * Will be held accountable for ...

Crane and Rigging Manager SUPERVISES: N/A AUTHORITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES: * Must be technically proficient in tasks, work processes, and safe use of rigging equipment * Will be held accountable for ...

Rigger

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$27.25 - $35.25/hr

Experienced with crane assembly and disassembly * Good math skills for calculating load requirements * Knowledge of rigging equipment * Unafraid of heights, climbing ladders and scaffolding between ...

... crane operator, you'll ensure all loads and equipment are lifted and set properly, always ... Inspect and secure rigging equipment to ensure it is in good working order * Attach and detach ...

Rigger

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$27.25 - $35.25/hr

Experienced with crane assembly and disassembly * Good math skills for calculating load requirements * Knowledge of rigging equipment * Unafraid of heights, climbing ladders and scaffolding between ...

Rigger

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$27.25 - $35.25/hr

Experienced with crane assembly and disassembly * Good math skills for calculating load requirements * Knowledge of rigging equipment * Unafraid of heights, climbing ladders and scaffolding between ...

Hiring Marine Riggers

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $33/hr

... Rigger. -Rig materials to be moved onto ship or around the ship yard -Convey instructions to crane operators and forklift drivers about where to move, lower or lift equipment -Locate, load and unload ...

Rigger Operator

Newark, CA · On-site

$23/hr

... crane operator, you'll ensure all loads and equipment are lifted and set properly, always ... Inspect and secure rigging equipment to ensure it is in good working order * Attach and detach ...

Hiring Riggers for Shipyard

National City, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $31.75/hr

... Rigger. -Rig materials to be moved onto ship or around the ship yard -Convey instructions to crane operators and forklift drivers about where to move, lower or lift equipment -Locate, load and unload ...

The Certified Crane Operator will be responsible for operating various types of cranes to lift ... Communicate with rigging crew and signalers to coordinate movements and ensure the safe handling of ...

Crane Operator Total-Western, Inc. is seeking a highly skilled and certified Crane Operator to join ... Communicate with rigging crew and signalers to coordinate movements and ensure the safe handling of ...

POSITION SUMMARY The Crane Operator is responsible for safely operating rough terrain cranes and ... Communicate clearly with riggers, signal persons, and ground crew using hand signals and radio ...

Showing results 21-40

Crane Rigger information

See California salary details

$19

$27

$37

How much do crane rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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 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.

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 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 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.

Is being a crane rigger hard?

Being a crane rigger involves physically demanding work, working at heights, and operating heavy equipment, which requires good physical fitness, attention to safety protocols, and proper training. The job can be challenging due to the need for precision, coordination, and adherence to safety standards, but proper certification and experience help manage these challenges.

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:

Infographic showing various Crane Rigger job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,278 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Rigger - SDCA

Austal USA

San Diego, CA • On-site

$35.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Austal USA rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

295th of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

REPORTS TO: Crane and Rigging Manager
SUPERVISES: N/A
AUTHORITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Must be technically proficient in tasks, work processes, and safe use of rigging equipment
  • Will be held accountable for completion of daily work assignments including the completion and signatures for work completion and quality
  • Will maintain cleanliness and organization on assigned job sites
  • Be responsible for selection and utilization of proper lifting gear
  • Set up crane hoisting equipment
  • Will be expected to work any assigned shift
  • May be assigned tasks that are outside the normal craft assignments
  • Monitor the job site for compliance with quality, safety, and environmental and health regulations
  • Will be expected to demonstrate the ability to apply practices which satisfy regulatory requirements and industry wide established guidelines to carry out instructions or directions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Also, will be expected to be able to identify and then resolve small problems which arise while carrying out day-to-day tasks

QUALIFICATIONS / KNOWLEDGE / EXPERIENCE:
  • High School Diploma/GED, or 5 years Maritime experience
  • One year minimum work experience as a rigger in a shipyard environment or similar industry
  • Must be willing to participate in continuous improvement by way of on-the-job training for less experienced co-workers
  • Must have a thorough knowledge of equipment used in rigging operations, including but not limited to lifting and moving equipment
  • Must have knowledge of shipyard terminology such as general ship structure and vessel layout
  • Must have a thorough knowledge of USA Standard hand signals
  • Must be able to add, subtract, multiply, divide and measure using the metric system
  • Must demonstrate acceptable proficiency by participating in and successfully completing the Austal USA Overhead Crane/Rigging training course which will include both written and functional examinations
  • Must demonstrate the ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, correspondence and memos, write simple correspondence, and effectively present information in one-on-one or small group situations

TOOLS: Will be expected to acquire basic tools on a list which will be provided by the Crane/Rigging Manager
DIRECTION EXERCISED: N/A
DISCRETION EXERCISED: N/A
LIAISES WITH: Production Department Foremen and Supervisors, Health, Safety and Environmental representatives
ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES:
  • Candidates must meet the following employment eligibility guidelines to be considered for employment with Austal USA:
  • 18 years of age or older at time of application
  • Able to provide proof of US Person Status
  • No felony convictions of Theft/Deception or Violent crimes within seven years from disposition date
  • No felony convictions of Drug crimes within three years from disposition date
  • Willing to submit to a drug screen
  • Willing to submit to a background check

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Must be able to tour all vessels and work sites.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to humid conditions, bright flashing lights, moving mechanical parts, high precarious places, outside weather conditions, and extreme heat. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes and/or airborne particles at or below the PEL, toxic or caustic chemicals, and heat and cold. The noise level in the work environment is usually very loud, + 90 dB.
Specific physical requirements include the following:
  • Must have the ability to bend, squat, stoop, crawl, and kneel.
  • Perform prolonged standing.
  • Ability to turn head from side to side and about the vertical axis.
  • Ability to turn body at the waist from side to side and about the vertical axis.
  • Lift/push/pull 50lbs to 75lbs on an occasional basis.
  • Lift/push/pull up to 20lbs on a frequent basis.
  • Must have the ability to climb in a safe manner (climbing as a minimum includes stairs, scaffolding, ladders, and ramps).
  • Ability to work at heights above 12' while working from ladders, scaffolding and/or man lifts.
  • Able to work at a variety of levels (ex. waist, eye, overhead).
  • Demonstrate the ability to safely and appropriately use required tools and equipment.
  • Demonstrate good balance while working on uneven surfaces and maneuvering obstacles.
  • Possess sufficient handgrip and coordination to carry and operate tools and equipment.
  • Ability to utilize personal protective equipment (hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toes shoes, goggles, respirator, safety harness, safety line, flotation gear, etc.) safely per OSHA standards.
  • Ability to withstand cold and hot temperatures.
  • Ability to enter 18" x 36" openings and work in confined spaces for prolonged periods of time.
  • Able to respond to verbal and audible sounds/commands.
  • Able to utilize adequate visual skills.
  • Ability to fully extend the arm while reaching overhead, reaching out, reaching to the side and reaching down.
  • Ability to perceive attributes of an object/material such as size, shape, temperature and texture by means of receptors in the hands and fingers.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters whole performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, high precarious places, outside weather conditions, and extreme heat. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes and/or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and heat and cold. The noise level in the work environment is usually very loud.
SAFETY
Must comply with company, federal, state, and local safety and environmental rules and regulations while performing daily job tasks.
COMPENSATION
Pay rate is $35.25.
Equal Employment Commitment
Any qualified individual with a disability who is having difficulty in completing an application because of incompatible technology or other disability-related application issues may contact us at the following phone number for assistance: 251-445-1932.
Austal's commitment to equal employment opportunity applies at all levels of employment, in all job titles, including the executive level, and to all employment actions, including but not limited to decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, training, and promotion.

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