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Crane Rigging Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Laborer

Mokena, IL ยท On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Perform crane operations and proper rigging techniques to safely move equipment, components, and materials. * Prepare materials and equipment for shipment, including staging, banding, shrink wrapping ...

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Manual Bridge Mill Machinist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Speeds and feeds optimization for large parts, custom fixturing, heavy rigging, overhead crane operation. * Measurement & Quality: Micrometers, vernier calipers, dial indicators, depth gauges, laser ...

Millwright

Alsip, IL ยท On-site

$25.75 - $33.50/hr

... house crane) Take direction from work order system and complete work, including all required ... Heavy rigging knowledge Welding and fabrication skills Industrial Pipefitting Preventative ...

Help customers solve lifting, rigging, crane, inspection, and training challenges * Build long-term relationships with construction managers, plant managers, safety professionals, operations leaders ...

Union Laborer

Chicago, IL

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

... with rigging items to crane as needed * Perform final and general cleanup of a space including mopping, dusting, removal of floor protection, etc. POSITION REQUIREMENTS: * High school degree or ...

Union Laborer

Chicago, IL

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

... with rigging items to crane as needed * Perform final and general cleanup of a space including mopping, dusting, removal of floor protection, etc. POSITION REQUIREMENTS: * High school degree or ...

Warehouse General Laborer

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

Ability to operate forklift and overhead crane is a plus, as well as knowledge of rigging heavy equipment. Ability to drop and spot trailers on company lot, able to back trailers in and out of ...

Rigging * Railroad * Crane Operations * Welding * Diesel Mechanics * Oil & Gas * Utilities * Military * Agriculture * Work Schedule This position supports emergency railroad operations, which means ...

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Rigging * Railroad * Crane Operations * Welding * Diesel Mechanics * Oil & Gas * Utilities * Military * Agriculture * Work Schedule This position supports emergency railroad operations, which means ...

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Rigging * Railroad * Crane Operations * Welding * Diesel Mechanics * Oil & Gas * Utilities * Military * Agriculture * Work Schedule This position supports emergency railroad operations, which means ...

Showing results 21-40

Crane Rigging information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20

$28

$38

How much do crane rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane rigging in Chicago, IL is $28.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is crane rigging?

Crane rigging refers to the process of preparing and securing loads for lifting and moving with a crane. This involves selecting the right rigging equipment, such as slings, chains, and hooks, and attaching them properly to the load. Rigging professionals must ensure that the load is balanced and secure to prevent accidents. Proper crane rigging is essential for safety and efficiency on construction sites, shipyards, and other industrial settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crane rigger, and why are they important?

To excel as a Crane Rigger, you need in-depth knowledge of load calculations, rigging techniques, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma and rigging certification. Familiarity with rigging hardware, cranes, load charts, and safety management systems like OSHA standards is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help ensure safe and efficient operations on site. These skills and qualifications are crucial for preventing accidents, maintaining safety, and ensuring successful lifts in construction and industrial environments.

What are some common challenges crane riggers face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Crane riggers often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, managing heavy loads with precision, and coordinating closely with crane operators and ground crews. Communication is crucial to ensure safety and efficiency, especially in dynamic construction environments where multiple teams operate simultaneously. To address these challenges, riggers should prioritize clear hand signals or use radios, regularly inspect rigging equipment, and participate in ongoing safety training. Building strong teamwork and maintaining situational awareness can help mitigate risks and contribute to successful lifting operations.

What is the difference between Crane Rigging vs Crane Operator?

AspectCrane RiggingCrane Operator
CredentialsRigging certifications, OSHA safety trainingCrane operation licenses, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentOn-site, working with rigging gear and load setupOperating cranes, controlling load movement
Industry UsageConstruction, industrial, shippingConstruction, shipping, manufacturing

Crane rigging involves preparing loads and ensuring safe lifting using rigging gear, while crane operators control the crane to move loads. Both roles require safety certifications and often work together on construction sites or industrial projects, but they focus on different aspects of the lifting process.

Is being a crane rigger hard?

Crane rigging can be physically demanding and requires attention to safety protocols, proper use of rigging tools, and understanding of load calculations. It often involves working at heights and in various weather conditions, making experience and training important for proficiency. Certification and adherence to safety standards are essential for success in this role.
Infographic showing various Crane Rigging job openings in Chicago, IL 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 $59,788 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Laborer

SMS group Inc

Mokena, IL โ€ข On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Laborer

What we do:

SMS group is an industrial equipment manufacturer for the steel industry. We design, build, and service equipment and sleep plants across the globe with a strong technical services/machine shop network in North America.

Position Summary

The Laborer is responsible for providing general shop support to maintain safe, efficient, and productive operations throughout the SMS group facility. This position performs a variety of tasks including material handling, shipping support, housekeeping, equipment operation, facility maintenance, and production assistance. The successful candidate must demonstrate reliability, strong work ethic, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work independently while supporting multiple areas of the business.

The right candidate will:

  • Perform general labor duties throughout the facility while working safely and efficiently with minimal supervision.
  • Maintain focus, productivity, and initiative while completing assigned tasks and supporting daily shop operations.
  • Assist with material handling activities including loading, unloading, staging, organizing, and moving materials throughout the facility.
  • Safely operate forklifts, pallet jacks, overhead cranes, and other material handling equipment as required.
  • Perform crane operations and proper rigging techniques to safely move equipment, components, and materials.
  • Prepare materials and equipment for shipment, including staging, banding, shrink wrapping, and securing loads as required.
  • Maintain organization of the shop by properly storing materials, keeping like items together, and utilizing shelving and designated storage areas when available.
  • Utilize hand tools, power tools, and other miscellaneous equipment safely and effectively to complete assigned tasks.
  • Perform basic measurements using tape measures, calipers, micrometers, and other measuring devices as required.
  • Assist with minor repairs and general maintenance throughout the facility, including:
  • Maintain knowledge of customer equipment, components, and materials throughout the shop.
  • Complete daily housekeeping responsibilities including:
    • Shop cleaning
    • Trash and waste removal
    • Maintaining rag and oil dry containers
    • General workplace organization

What you'll need:

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Previous experience in an industrial, manufacturing, warehouse, or construction environment preferred.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools and shop equipment.
  • Ability to safely operate forklifts, pallet jacks, overhead cranes, and rigging equipment or obtain required certifications.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Commitment to workplace safety, quality, and teamwork.

What we offer

  • Competitive compensation
  • Medical/Dental/Vision coverage starting after 30 days
  • Paid vacation
  • 10 paid holidays
  • 401K with a company match
  • Paid lunches
  • Paid internal metatarsal boots and all other PPE
  • Training
  • 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 that promotes a culture of innovation, growth, and inclusion. We offer company events, activities, and opportunities to participate in charitable initiatives that benefit the communities where we are located.

SMS group Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, gender identity or other categories protected by law. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a drug screen and physical capacity profile test.

www.sms-group.us

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