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Crane Rigger Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

Levels crane using inside cab controls and levelling bubble ... Observes load rigging or hookup and determines safety of load using load chart. * Always operates ...

CDL Driver Boom Crane

Columbia, MD · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Experience with load charts, rigging practices, and weight distribution for safe crane operation preferred. Skills and Abilities * Ability to do basic math, read orders, write instructions and ...

CDL Driver Boom Crane

Columbia, MD · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Experience with load charts, rigging practices, and weight distribution for safe crane operation preferred. Skills and Abilities * Ability to do basic math, read orders, write instructions and ...

Millwright

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$23.75 - $31/hr

... rigging techniques. • Assist with overhead crane inspections and repairs. Needs to be capable of working at heights. • Obtains replacement parts from facilities engineering, OEM, and or ...

Millwright

Baltimore, MD

$23.75 - $31/hr

... and safe rigging techniques. Assist with overhead crane inspections and repairs. Needs to be capable of working at heights. Obtains replacement parts from facilities engineering, OEM, and or ...

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Crane Rigger information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$19

$27

$37

How much do crane rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane rigger in Baltimore, MD is $27.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.41 and $31.78 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Rigger jobs in Baltimore, MD? The most popular types of Crane Rigger jobs in Baltimore, MD are:
Crane Operator (Marine)

Crane Operator (Marine)

Kokosing

Baltimore, MD • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Kokosing rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Kokosing (www.kokosing.biz) is one of America's 50 largest General Contractors and services a broad spectrum of clients in both the private and public business sectors. Kokosing's services include heavy civil/industrial construction such as highways, bridges, underground utilities, water/wastewater facilities, and marine construction. For over 75 years, Kokosing has successfully attracted the most qualified technical personnel in the construction industry by offering visible challenges, superior quality, and attractive rewards. With over $2.8 billion in annual sales and a commitment to its workforce, Kokosing is the winning team.
Job Description:
We have immediate needs for a Crane Operator with Pile Driving experience. Must be willing to travel between Baltimore and Norfolk, and work 12-hour shifts with an extended work schedule. Dredging experience a plus but not required.
SUMMARY
Operates lattice boom and telescopic/hydraulic cranes to perform duties for marine construction projects.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Checks all fluids before starting engine.
  • Levels crane using inside cab controls and levelling bubble.
  • Observes load rigging or hookup and determines safety of load using load chart.
  • Always operates within parameters of load chart.
  • Understands and makes use of standard hand signals.
  • Manipulates or depresses crane controls such as pedals, levers, and buttons, to regulate speed and direction of crane and hoist movement.
  • Operates in a smooth and controlled manner.
  • Uses hoisting attachments such as hook, sling, electromagnet, or bucket as load requires.
  • Cleans and maintains crane and hoisting mechanism.
  • Inspects crane for defective parts and notifies supervisor of defects or malfunctions immediately.
  • Operates crane in a safe, responsible manner.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
NCCCO (or CIC) with LBC designation required, TLL designation preferred.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
  • Level and position crane for a pick.
  • Must be able to determine weight of item being picked. Must check charts to see if item is within weight limits of crane.
  • Lift and set various objects as needed.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
Four to ten years related experience and/or training. Experience must be commensurate with requirements of project (e.g. bridge or utility experience, use of hydraulic or friction crane), and therefore will vary by project.
LANGUAGE SKILLS
English. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Average: must be able to calculate safe load levels from charts provided.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
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. Use of arms, hands for feet for loader controls 100%of the time. Climb on and off machinery as necessary. Sit on machinery 100% of time. Stoop or kneel at least once per day to do routine maintenance on machinery. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Tolerate some vibration produced by machinery. Tolerate movement over rough terrain at times.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance and talk or hear. The employee must regularly work or walk on uneven ground or onboard floating equipment. Access and egress to barges, boats and piers requires ability to do so from moving surfaces due to water motion. Must have good vision and hearing for details at close range or in the distance.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while 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 moving mechanical parts and outside weather conditions. The employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals and risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. Construction sites may be in isolated areas but are mostly in tight, high traffic areas; high activity level - around other equipment and workers.
Expected base pay range for this positions is: $39.00/hr - $45.00/hr
This compensation range is specific to the job level and takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to: education, experience, licensure, certifications, geographic location, and internal equity. The range has been created in good faith based on information known to Kokosing at the time of the posting. Compensation decisions are dependent on the circumstances of each case. This salary range does not include any potential incentive pay or benefits, however, such information will be provided separately when appropriate.
BENEFITS
Kokosing offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, life, and disability insurance, paid time off and a 401K plan.
Kokosing is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action federal and state contractor. The company does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class.

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