ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Head Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ameri-Force

Rigger

San Diego, CA

$25.50 - $33/hr

Climbing and balancing on scaffolds, walking, stooping and crouching to fit equipment into rigging gear, reaching above head at shoulder level or below to rig equipment, continuous manual dexterity ...

Ameri-Force

Rigger

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $33/hr

Climbing and balancing on scaffolds, walking, stooping and crouching to fit equipment into rigging gear, reaching above head at shoulder level or below to rig equipment, continuous manual dexterity ...

Encore

Event Rigger - Westin Bonaventure

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $33.50/hr

Reports to Lead Rigger or Rigging Coordinator. Key Job Responsibilities Rigging • Gather and ... your head): 1-2 hours per day • Climbing: 2-3 hours per day • Grasping: 1-2 hours per day ...

Labor One Staffing

Hiring Marine Riggers

San Diego, CA

$25.50 - $33/hr

... reaching above head at shoulder level or below to rig equipment, continuous manual dexterity ... Rigger Knowledge -Riggers should have experience and previous work history to support the rate of a ...

Rockforce

$34 - $50/hr

Join us as we head into one of the most exciting eras in the live entertainment industry! We are seeking experienced and safety-focused Riggers to support live events and large-scale productions.

Amentum

Rigger tech II

Merritt Island, FL

$21.75 - $28.25/hr

Set up or repair rigging for construction projects, manufacturing plants, logging yards, ships and ... Over Head Cranes. * Various hand tools. * Operate computer terminals, personal computers, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHead Rigger Jobs

Head Rigger information

See salary details

$14

$26

$36

How much do head rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for head rigger in the United States is $26.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Head Rigger faces when leading a team on large-scale productions?

A Head Rigger often encounters challenges such as coordinating complex rigging setups under tight deadlines, ensuring all team members adhere to strict safety protocols, and adapting plans in real-time to accommodate last-minute changes in production requirements. Effective communication and leadership are essential, as the Head Rigger must collaborate closely with designers, technical directors, and other departments to ensure seamless integration of rigging with lighting, audio, and scenic elements. Proactively addressing these challenges helps maintain a safe work environment and ensures the success of the production.

What is the difference between Head Rigger vs Rigger?

AspectHead RiggerRigger
CertificationsOSHA certifications, rigging licensesOSHA certifications, rigging licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, entertainment industry, industrial settingsConstruction sites, entertainment industry, industrial settings
ResponsibilitiesOversees rigging operations, supervises riggers, plans complex rigging tasksPerforms rigging tasks, sets up equipment, assists in lifting operations

The main difference between a Head Rigger and a Rigger is that the Head Rigger supervises and plans rigging operations, while the Rigger executes the rigging tasks under supervision. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but the Head Rigger holds a leadership position with additional responsibilities.

What is a Head Rigger?

A Head Rigger is a skilled professional responsible for overseeing the installation, maintenance, and operation of rigging systems in settings such as theaters, concerts, film sets, or construction sites. They lead a team of riggers to safely move, lift, and secure heavy equipment, scenery, or lighting. The Head Rigger ensures that all rigging activities comply with safety regulations and that equipment is properly inspected and maintained. Their expertise helps prevent accidents and ensures smooth operations during productions or installations.

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

To thrive as a Head Rigger, you need comprehensive knowledge of rigging systems, safety standards, and mechanical principles, typically backed by experience and relevant certifications like ETCP (Entertainment Technician Certification Program). Mastery of rigging hardware, automated systems, and safety inspection tools is essential for managing complex setups. Leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating teams and ensuring safe operations. These abilities are vital to guarantee the safety of crew and performers, maintain equipment integrity, and deliver flawless event or production execution.
More about Head Rigger jobs
What cities are hiring for Head Rigger jobs? Cities with the most Head Rigger job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rigger jobs? The most popular types of Rigger jobs are:
What states have the most Head Rigger jobs? States with the most job openings for Head Rigger jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Head Rigger jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Head Rigger jobs are:
Head Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Rigger job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Full Time, 85% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.
Rigging Department Head - Clearwing

Rigging Department Head - Clearwing

Clair Global Corporation

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$23 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Clair Global rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 65 rated media

Job description

Function:
The Rigging Department Head oversees the rigging dept in prep, operation, and maintenance of entertainment rigging equipment and ensures the successful prep of all shows and rentals. The ideal candidate is an experienced technician with excellent interpersonal skills.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Forecast warehouse staffing needs
  • Assist in the development and implementation of new standards, improvements, training, and efficiencies within the department.
  • Work with Operations to double check gear lists for accuracy and communicate inventory discrepancies.
  • Keep accurate inventory counts of all rigging equipment within the inventory system
  • Maintain, inspect, and assist in repairing motors, lifts, motor distros, truss and other rigging items
  • Assist in keeping accurate records of all certifications and work done on rigging equipment
  • Pull, prep and pack rigging gear for all projects
  • Be the onsite rigging lead for specified shows as needed.
  • Assist clients/other technicians via phone, email, or in person to troubleshoot rigging problems effectively.
  • Reports and safety concerns back to Operations and Warehouse Manager
  • Enter and maintain project documentation

Competencies:
  • Appropriate show etiquette.
  • Works well with timelines and deadlines.
  • Self-motivated and passionate with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Works well individually and as a team.
  • Professional interaction: tactful, positive, effective communicator (verbal and written).
  • Ability to troubleshoot
  • Excellent attention to detail.

Skills and Qualifications:
  • Five (5) years' experience in entertainment rigging production standards preferred.
  • Working knowledge of rigging equipment in Clair
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • OSHA 30 preferred
  • Lead a large crew and understands union/house rules.
  • Current knowledge of industry standards and technology
  • Certified in CM Hoists Preferred as well as knowledge of Stagemaker Hoists
  • Knowledgeable in Tomcat, Tyler, and Thomas truss systems
  • Willingness to travel (occasionally on short notice)

Physical Working Conditions:
  • Regularly bend, twist, stretch, push, pull and carry, lift 50-75 lbs.
  • Sit or stand for prolonged periods of time.
  • Walk up and down stairs or ladders and comfortable with heights.
  • Work in various temperatures and outdoor weather conditions.
  • Work "on-call" as needed including some nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Work long hours and overtime as required.

What Clair Global employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply