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Crane Rigger Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Support crane assembly, rigging, and heavy haul projects * Work across plants, wind farms, and local taxi jobs * Assist with transport operations including trucks, trailers, and specialized equipment

Support crane assembly, rigging, and heavy haul projects * Work across plants, wind farms, and local taxi jobs * Assist with transport operations including trucks, trailers, and specialized equipment

Support crane assembly, rigging, and heavy haul projects * Work across plants, wind farms, and local taxi jobs * Assist with transport operations including trucks, trailers, and specialized equipment

Crane Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$31.95/hr

Must be able to use proper rigging and hand signals when making a lift, do not exceed weight limits as posted on load charts. * Perform and document daily, weekly, and monthly crane inspections.

Mobile Crane & Rigging Safety * Hazardous Materials Management * incident investigation and reporting Skills and Behaviors Skills and Behaviors * Business presence and polish * Knowledge of CB&I ...

Crane Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Knowledge of basic lifting and rigging and fluent with hand signals. * Experience operating other construction equipment is a plus. * Class A or B commercial drivers license is a plus. * Capability ...

Laborer

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

Crane and Rigging Training * Forklift Operator Training * Tuition reimbursement program and more! Who we are: At SMS group, our people are our greatest asset. We offer an entrepreneurial environment ...

Welder - Day Shift - Audubon

Audubon, IA

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Forklift, overhead crane, and rigging experience required. * Must pass welding test. * Ability to read, analyze, and interpret detailed drawings. ASTEC is a Drug Free Workplace, Affirmative Action ...

Welder - Submarine Building

Audubon, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Forklift, overhead crane, and rigging experience required. * Must pass welding test. * Ability to read, analyze, and interpret detailed drawings. ASTEC is a Drug Free Workplace, Affirmative Action ...

Welder - Day Shift - Audubon

Audubon, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Forklift, overhead crane, and rigging experience required. * Must pass welding test. * Ability to read, analyze, and interpret detailed drawings. ASTEC is a Drug Free Workplace, Affirmative Action ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Audubon, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Forklift, overhead crane, and rigging experience required. * Must pass welding test. * Ability to read, analyze, and interpret detailed drawings. ASTEC is a Drug Free Workplace, Affirmative Action ...

Welder - Day Shift - Audubon

Audubon, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Forklift, overhead crane, and rigging experience required. * Must pass welding test. * Ability to read, analyze, and interpret detailed drawings. ASTEC is a Drug Free Workplace, Affirmative Action ...

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Showing results 1-20

Crane Rigger information

See Iowa salary details

$18

$26

$35

How much do crane rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane rigger in Iowa is $26.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $30.05 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 the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are often in specialized industries such as oil and gas, power plant construction, or heavy industrial projects, where riggers with advanced certifications and extensive experience can earn higher wages. Supervisory or lead rigging positions also tend to offer higher salaries due to increased responsibilities and skills required.

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 setting up, inspecting, and operating rigging equipment to safely lift and move heavy loads with cranes. They attach loads to the crane using slings, hooks, and other rigging gear, ensuring proper weight distribution and safety protocols are followed. Rigging requires knowledge of crane operation, safety standards, and often certification in rigging and signal communication.

Is being a crane rigger hard?

Being a crane rigger involves physical labor, working at heights, and understanding safety protocols, which can be physically demanding and require attention to detail. The job often requires specialized training, certifications, and the ability to work in various weather conditions, making it challenging for some individuals. Success in this role depends on physical fitness, technical skills, and adherence to safety standards.
What are popular job titles related to Crane Rigger jobs in Iowa? For Crane Rigger jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Crane Rigger jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Crane Rigger jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Crane Rigger jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Crane Rigger job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Crane Rigger jobs in IA? For Crane Rigger jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Crane Rigger job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,514 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Crane Operator

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Barnhart rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

122nd of 142 rated vehicle equipment hire


Job description

Join a Team That Builds, Lifts, and Moves America
At Barnhart, we don't just lift heavy loads - we solve complex challenges across industries. As a Crane Operator, you'll play a key role in high-impact projects while building a long-term career with a national industry leader.
What You'll Do
This role offers a mix of consistent local work with opportunities to gain experience across multiple pieces of equipment (AT, hydraulic cranes, and more). In this role, you will:
  • Operate cranes ranging from boom trucks to 600-ton equipment
  • Perform daily lifting operations, primarily running cranes
  • Support crane assembly, rigging, and heavy haul projects
  • Work across plants, wind farms, and local taxi jobs
  • Assist with transport operations including trucks, trailers, and specialized equipment
  • Help ensure safe lifting through load control and communication with rigging crews

Why You'll Love This Role
  • Competitive Pay + Weekly Pay Schedule
  • Permanent, full-time role
  • 401(k) program with company match up to 10% of pay
  • Family medical, dental and vision insurance is available after 90 days of employment
  • Paid time off and other benefits
  • Barnhart CARES family care and community service opportunities
  • Opportunity to work on industry-leading equipment
  • Long-term growth opportunities
  • Join a company with a strong safety-first, team-driven culture

What You Bring
Required:
  • CDL Class A
  • NCCCO certification(s)
  • Strong commitment to safety and communication on job sites

Preferred:
  • Experience operating AT, hydraulic, or boom truck cranes
  • Experience in rigging or heavy haul operations
  • TWIC card

Additional Expectations:
  • Ability to work day/night shifts, weekends, or holidays as needed
  • Willingness to travel occasionally for field work

Work Environment
  • Monday-Friday with 40+ hours per week, with potential for overtime
  • Primarily local work, with project-based variability
  • Outdoor, active job sites across multiple industries

PURPOSE - Barnhart is built on a strong foundation of serving others. The fruit of our labor is used to grow the company, care for our employees, and serve those in our communities and around the world.
MINDS OVER MATTER - Barnhart has built a nationwide reputation for solving problems. We specialize in the lifting, heavy-rigging, and heavy transport of major components used in American industry.
NETWORK - Barnhart has built teams that form one of our industry's strongest networks of talent and resources with over 60 branch locations across the U.S. working together to serve our customers. This growing network offers our team members constant opportunity for career growth and professional development.
CULTURE - Barnhart has a strong team culture -- the "One TEAM." We are looking for smart, hard-working people who strive for excellence in their work and appreciate collaboration. Join a team that values Safety, Servant Leadership, Quality Service, Innovation, Continuous Improvement, Fairness, and Profit with a Purpose.
EOE/AA Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran

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