1

Crane Rigger Jobs in Washington, DC (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 ...

You will be responsible for the safe transport, rigging, and precise placement of complex trenching and shoring equipment using a mobile truck crane. You will work directly with our customers at ...

CDL Driver - Heavy Haul

Sterling, VA · On-site

$27.65 - $41.48/hr

You will be responsible for the safe transport, rigging, and precise placement of complex trenching and shoring equipment using a mobile truck crane. You will work directly with our customers at ...

Driver - CDL B

Sterling, VA · On-site

$27.65 - $41.48/hr

Join Our Team! Sunbelt Rentals strives to be the customer's first choice in the equipment rental industry. From pumps to scaffolding to general construction tools, we aim to be the only call needed ...

CDL Driver - Heavy Haul

Sterling, VA · On-site

$27.65 - $41.48/hr

You will be responsible for the safe transport, rigging, and precise placement of complex trenching and shoring equipment using a mobile truck crane. You will work directly with our customers at ...

CDL Driver - Heavy Haul

Sterling, VA · On-site

$27.65 - $41.48/hr

You will be responsible for the safe transport, rigging, and precise placement of complex trenching and shoring equipment using a mobile truck crane. You will work directly with our customers at ...

ProLift Rigging is a privately owned, purpose-driven industrial construction company that has a ... Communication skills Crane maintenance experience preferred CDL required Prior knowledge of cranes ...

ProLift Rigging is a privately owned, purpose-driven industrial construction company that has a ... Communication skills Crane maintenance experience preferred CDL required Prior knowledge of cranes ...

Ability to overhaul and repair crane and hoists components using basic mechanics hand tools. * Ability to learn and operate shop machinery and power tools. * Ability to utilize proper rigging ...

ProLift Rigging is a privately owned, purpose-driven industrial construction company that has a ... Communication skills Crane maintenance experience preferred CDL required Prior knowledge of cranes ...

Hoist Builder/Installer

Lanham, MD · On-site

$23.50 - $30/hr

Utilize proper rigging techniques and coordinate with crane operators and site supervisors for hoist assembly and safe installation. * Assist in performing preventative and needed maintenance on all ...

Showing results 41-60

Crane Rigger information

See Washington, DC salary details

$21

$31

$42

How much do crane rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane rigger in Washington, DC is $31.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.59 and $36.06 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 are popular job titles related to Crane Rigger jobs in Washington, DC?

For Crane Rigger jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Crane Rigger jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Crane Rigger jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Crane Rigger job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,488 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

Crane Operator

Kokosing

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 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 a need for aCrane Operator in the following areas:

Washington, DC - Blue Plains wastewater treatment plant project

Saluda, VA - Pile driving experience preferred

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

NCCCO (or CIC) with LAT and TLL designations required. DOT medical card required.

DC Operators License (for Blue Plains project in Washington, DC)

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESinclude 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.

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

5+ 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.

BENEFITS

Kokosing offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, life, and disability insurance, paid time off and a 401K plan.

Expected base pay range for this position is: $40.00/hr - $50.00/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.

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.


What Kokosing employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom