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Crane Rigger Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Rigger

Chesapeake, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

Rigger

Carrollton, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

Rigger

Suffolk, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

ProLift Rigging is a privately owned, purpose-driven industrial construction company that has a ... JOB SUMMARY The PLR Crane Operator is responsible for providing lifting and hoisting services to ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA

$23.25 - $30/hr

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA

$23.25 - $30/hr

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

Rigger

Hampton, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

Rigger

Hampton, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

... crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts. * Splice natural and synthetic ... JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging): * Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or ...

ProLift Rigging is a privately owned, purpose-driven industrial construction company that has a ... JOB SUMMARY The PLR Crane Operator is responsible for providing lifting and hoisting services to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Crane Rigger information

See Virginia salary details

$19

$27

$37

How much do crane rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane rigger in Virginia is $27.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.37 and $31.68 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 the most commonly searched types of Crane Rigger jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Crane Rigger jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Crane Rigger jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Crane Rigger jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Crane Rigger jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Crane Rigger job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Crane Rigger jobs in VA? For Crane Rigger jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Rigger

$38K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking Riggers for work in Norfolk, VA, Chesapeake, VA, Portsmouth, VA, and Hampton, VA shipyards.
Job Duties

  • Fabricates, installs and repairs rigging and weight handling gear on ships.
  • Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts and order heavy loads aboard ships.
  • Selects and attaches chainfalls, jacks, rollers, levers and/or pulleys according to types of loads being moved.
  • Signals cranes or other equipment to move loads.
  • Controls movement of heavy equipment through narrow openings or in confined spaces.
  • Lays out and handles lines on cleats or bollards and hauls in ships with capstans when assisting dock master in ship dry docking operations.
  • Installs or repairs ships’ rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment.
  • Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats.
  • Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required.
  • Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ropes, steamboat jacks, hydraulic jacks, turnbuckles, rollers, chainfalls, clamps, swivels, crane signals, shipboard nomenclature, forklifts and aerial lifts.
  • Splice natural and synthetic ropes, tying knots, use of electric, pneumatic and hand powered tools.
  • Knowledge of OSHA standards.


JOURNEYPERSON 3 (Rigging):

  • Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts and other heavy loads aboard ship.
  • Selects and attaches chainfalls, jacks, rollers, lever and/or pulleys according to types of loads being moved.
  • Signals cranes or other equipment to move loads, controls movement of heavy equipment through narrow openings or in confined spaces.
  • Handles lines on cleats or bollards when assisting the dock master in ship dry docking operations.
  • Moves barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats.
  • Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required.
  • Knowledge of OSHA standards.


JOURNEYPERSON 2 (Rigging):

  • Attaches hoists and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts and other heavy loads aboard ships.
  • Signals cranes or other equipment to move loads.
  • Controls movement of equipment through narrow openings or in confined spaces, handles lines on cleats or bollards when assisting the dock master in the ship dry docking operations.
  • Moves barges and derricks with tug boats.
  • Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required.
  • Knowledge of shackles, chainfalls, natural, synthetic and wire ropes, turnbuckles, rollers, clamps and crane signals.
  • Splice natural and synthetic ropes tying knots.
  • Use if electric, pneumatic and hand tools.
  • Operate forklifts and aerial lifts.


JOURNEYPERSON 1 (Rigging):

  • Assist in attaching hoist and pulling gear to lift, move, remove, install or position machinery, equipment, structural parts or other loads abroad ship.
  • Assist in the movement of equipment through narrow openings or in confined spaces.
  • Assist in line handling operations, assist in the erection of staging in tanks, above decks, on mast, yardarms and ship’s sides.
  • Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required.
  • Knowledge of shackles, chainfalls, natural, synthetic and wire ropes, turnbuckles, rollers, clamps and crane signals.
  • Splicing natural ropes.
  • Tying knots operate forklifts and aerial lifts.
  • Use of hand tools.

Tidewater Staffing logo

About Tidewater Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.” Our deep industry experience and established local presence allow us to maintain a consistent, updated, and expansive network of skilled candidates, and our proprietary digital onboarding process. When you partner with Tidewater Staffing, you get employees who are trained, screened, supplied, and access to our proprietary digital onboarding process.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Virginia Beach, VA, US

Year founded

1992