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Crane Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Crane Operator

San Diego, CA

$33.15 - $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 ...

Crane Operator

El Cajon, CA

$33.15 - $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 ...

Crane Operator

San Diego, CA

$33.15 - $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 ...

Crane Operator

San Diego, CA

$33.15 - $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 ...

Crane Operator

San Diego, CA

$33.15 - $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 ...

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 ...

Crane Operator

Jamul, CA

$33.15 - $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 ...

$32.84/hr

He/she continually reaches, bends, stoops, pushes and pulls while attaching rigging to the object ... crane operator. * Working Conditions: Work is performed in all types of weather and terrain ...

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 ...

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.

Understand and show competence with using rigging equipment and application. 17. Safely and smoothly pick, carry, swing and place loads being lifted and positioned. 18. Operate crane safely at all ...

Crane Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Understand and show competence with using rigging equipment and application. 17. Safely and smoothly pick, carry, swing and place loads being lifted and positioned. 18. Operate crane safely at all ...

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Crane Rigger information

See California salary details

$19

$27

$37

How much do crane rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 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 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.

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 attaching and securing loads to cranes and other lifting equipment, ensuring that they are safely moved to their destinations. They assess the weight and stability of the loads, select the appropriate rigging gear, and communicate with crane operators during lifting operations. Safety is a key part of their role, as they must follow strict protocols to prevent accidents and equipment damage. Crane Riggers often work on construction sites, shipyards, or industrial facilities where heavy materials need to be lifted and moved.
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Crane Operator

$33.15 - $36.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Posting End Date:  Until Filled

Shift:                               ALL

Security Clearance:      No Clearance Required

Who We Are

General Dynamics NASSCO is one of three shipyards in the Marine Systems group of General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE: GD). General Dynamics NASSCO traces its beginnings to the industrial heart of San Diego, along the working waterfront of beautiful and historic San Diego Bay. The company has been designing and building ships in San Diego’s industrial corridor since 1960 and is the largest full service shipyard on the West Coast of the United States

Job Summary

Operates a variety of diesel electric cranes, including portal, tower, mobile, mobile (auxiliary), overhead (cab), overhead (floor), to lift and move heavy objects and machinery. Responds to ground signals to rotate boom, alter angle of boom, reposition crane and raise and lowers load.  Inspects crane for defective parts and performs routine maintenance and inspection procedures. Performs other related tasks as assigned, some of which may become essential to the position.

Qualifications Standards

Must have knowledge of mechanical and crane operation principles. NCCCO License to operate Mobile Hydraulic Crane (All Terrain) preferred. 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 coordinate hand, foot and eye movement.  Basic knowledge and comprehension of weights and conversion (lbs, tons, kilograms) needed. Knowledge and comprehension of universal hand-signals for rigging and crane operations necessary with the ability to clearly communicate via hand-held radio.  Must have the ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and be available to work any shift. Must comprehend written and verbal instructions, hear warning signals and read and comprehend safety instructions, regulations and warnings.

Essential Job Tasks

  1. Operate diesel electric cranes, including portal, tower, mobile, mobile (auxiliary), overhead (cab), overhead (floor) cranes; rotate and alter boom angles in response to radio or hand signals to raise, lower and transfer loads. 
  2. Set up machinery and equipment, including boom lengths and crib outriggers.
  3. Rig machinery and material in and out of ships.
  4. Provide data into log books relating to lifts.
  5. Read load charts and understand different types of load materials and landing areas.
  6. Inspect cranes for proper operation.
  7. Conduct pre and post-job inspections independently and/or with supervision.
  8. Perform minor crane maintenance, clean windows, and make basic repairs.
  9. Train and mentor others in essential rigging job functions and safe crane operations.
  10. Other job duties as assigned relevant to the trade.

Materials, Tools, Equipment, Work Aids

Basic hand and power tools, rigging tools, gloves, lubricating greases, oil, and cleaning solvents.  Personal protective equipment required.

Physical/Mental Involvement

Repetitive or prolonged sitting, climbing, balancing, and lifting.  Lifting body weight, sitting, reaching, handling, pushing/pulling, standing, walking, leaning and seeing (to maintain visual contact with load), eye/hand/foot coordination. Hearing warning signals, reading and comprehending safety instructions and planning sequence. Works in all areas of the shipyard and on board ships. Hearing warning signals and reading and comprehending safety instructions. Must be able to maintain general safety awareness and avoid hazards commonly present in employee’s work area.

Marginal Job Tasks

Housekeeping in all work areas, including sweeping. May be required to attend safety, quality and/or process improvement meetings.

Environmental Factors

Exposure to wind, rain, ambient temperatures such as extreme heat and cold, wet and humid conditions, dust, and toxic/caustic chemicals. Works at heights of up to 120' on piers or barges. Exposed to high levels of constant noise.

PAY SCALE  $33.15 - $36.50

This pay range is a reasonable estimate of the hourly range for this role. It takes into account the wide range of factors considered in making compensation decisions; including but not limited to skill sets, experience, training, and education. General Dynamics NASSCO also provides a variety of benefits including medical & dental insurance coverage, 401(k) retirement savings plan, flexible spending accounts/HSAs, life and disability insurance, company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), wellness coaching, and an onsite health services. 

General Dynamics NASSCO 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 veteran status, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.

To learn more about applicant rights under federal law, click here:

Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal

If you have a disability that impacts your ability to complete the job application process and would like to request an accommodation, please contact our Human Resources Department.

Call (619) 544-8511 or email nasscohr@nassco.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only, not to inquire about the status of applications.

NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans Employer