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Head Rigger Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Head Rigger information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$25

$35

How much do head rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for head rigger in Illinois is $25.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $28.89 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 jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Head riggers in specialized fields such as construction, entertainment, or industrial settings can earn $10,000 or more monthly through experience, certifications, and working in high-demand environments. Other high-paying roles without a degree include commercial pilots, real estate brokers, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers, often requiring technical training or apprenticeships. These jobs typically involve physical work, technical skills, or licensing but do not necessarily require a college degree.

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 the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are typically in specialized industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, or heavy construction, where riggers with advanced certifications and extensive experience can earn higher wages. Lead riggers or crane rigging supervisors often command the highest salaries due to their responsibility and expertise. Salaries can vary based on location, project complexity, and certifications like NCCCO or NCCER.

What is a head rigger?

A head rigger is a professional responsible for overseeing the planning, installation, and safety of rigging systems used to lift and move heavy objects, often in entertainment, construction, or industrial settings. They coordinate rigging crews, ensure compliance with safety standards, and operate or supervise the use of rigging tools and equipment. Certification and knowledge of load calculations and safety protocols are essential for this role.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs for a Head Rigger or similar roles often include executive positions such as construction or project managers, specialized engineers, or business owners in the construction industry. Achieving a $500,000 annual salary typically requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities in large-scale projects or companies.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rigger jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Rigger jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Head Rigger jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Head Rigger job openings:
Audiovisual Installation Technician - Entry-Level

Audiovisual Installation Technician - Entry-Level

Pearl Technology

Peoria Heights, IL โ€ข On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Salary: 20.00 - 24.00

Are you an IT professional craving a more hands-on, adventuroustech career?


Join our team as an Audiovisual (AV) Installation Technicianandbring your IT skills into the exciting world of AV.

In this role, you will work with cutting-edge displays, projectors, sound systems, and collaboration tech integrating them into modern IP networks as the AV and IT fields converge. Every installation is a new challenge, so if you love solving problems, working with your hands, and not being stuck at a desk, this job is for you. We valueattitude and aptitudeover formal experience you don't need prior AV experience or a CTS certification to start (well train you!), but youdoneed curiosity, a can-do spirit, and a desire to learn on a high-performance team.


Key Responsibilities


  • Install AV Equipment:Set up and mount audiovisual hardware (flat-panel displays, projectors, speakers, cameras, etc.) along with support structures like racks and mounts. This includes runninglow-voltage cablesand making necessary electrical connections to get the system up and running.
  • Cable Management & Integration:Pull, terminate, and neatly organize cabling (HDMI, speaker wires,Ethernet, etc.) to connect all components. Youll ensure all devices are properly linked and configured on the network modern AV gear often uses standard IP network equipment, so your networking know-how will be put to use.
  • System Configuration:Set up and configure AV systems and control interfaces (with guidance from senior techs) so that audio, video, and control signals flow seamlessly. Youll be helping tointegrate AV equipment into IT networksfor our clients sites, ensuring everything communicates smoothly.
  • Testing & Troubleshooting:Conduct tests on installed systems (audio checks, video signal tests, network connectivity) and perform quality checks to guarantee optimal performance. If something isnt working right, you'll troubleshoot on the spot to fix or adjust it all with a cool head and customer-friendly approach.
  • On-Site Customer Service:Work directly at client facilities (offices, schools, hospitals, etc.) and interact professionally with clients. Youll explain basic system operation to users and ensure they are comfortable with their new tech. Providingoutstanding customer serviceand keeping clients informed is part of the job, as it helps everything go smoothly.
  • Travel & Variety:Enjoy a change of scenery this positiontravels to different job sitesacross Central Illinois and occasionally beyond. Each project could be a new location (sometimes daily or weekly), so adaptability is key. No two days are the same!


Qualifications and Skills


  • Basic IT/Networking Knowledge:Understanding of computers and IP networking fundamentals (e.g. connecting devices to a LAN, basic Wi-Fi, IP addresses). Many AV systems run on the network now, so this foundation is important.
  • Hands-On Technical Skills:Experience or comfort withtools and manual work. You should know how to safely use hand and power tools for tasks like drilling, mounting, and rigging equipment. Basic carpentry or DIY skills and an understanding oflow-voltage electrical work(or willingness to learn) are highly valued.
  • Problem-Solving Attitude:Strong troubleshooting skills and a logical approach to figure out why a device or connection isnt working. An ideal candidateenjoys learning new techand figuring things out. (If youve set up home theater systems or configured routers on your own, thats a great sign!)
  • Physical Ability:This is an active role you must be able to lift and carry equipment (usually 25-50 lbs, occasionally more) and be comfortable on ladders or in tight spaces. Safety is paramount, so you should be mindful and careful in these environments.
  • Soft Skills:Good communication and teamwork skills. Youll often work as part of a crew, so being ateam playerwho can take direction and also speak up with ideas or concerns is crucial. We have a tight-knit, high-performance team and were looking for someone whothrives in a collaborative environment. Professionalism and courtesy with clients is a must.
  • Education/Certifications:High school diploma or equivalent required. Any tech-related coursework or experience (IT support, telecom, electrical, etc.) is a plus.No AV certification is required to start.In fact, we will provide training and support for you to earn yourAVIXA Certified Technology Specialist (CTS)certification on the job a credential thats highly respected in the AV industry. An existing CTS or similar (if you happen to have one) is a bonus, but not required.


What We Offer


  • Training & Career Development:We willtrain you from the ground upin pro-AV systems installation. Youll learn on the job and through formal courses, including prep for the CTS certification (we cover certification costs!). This is a fantastic opportunity togrow your skillsin a booming industry.
  • Exciting Projects:Work on a wide variety of installations from high-tech conference rooms and theaters to interactive classrooms and digital signage. Each project is unique, keeping work fresh and engaging.Every day is different, and youll never stop learning new equipment and techniques.
  • Travel & Adventure:If you love moving around rather than sitting in one spot, youll enjoy the constant change of scenery. Our projects take us all over Central Illinois (with occasional out-of-state installs), so you might be in a downtown high-rise one week and a college campus the next. We cover travel expenses and make sure you have the resources to be effective on the road.
  • Team Culture:Join ahigh-performance teamthat values camaraderie, innovation, and customer satisfaction. We take pride in our work and help each other succeed. New ideas are welcome, and mentorship is part of our culture seasoned technicians will guide you as you ramp up. We celebrate successes together in a supportive, safety-first environment.
  • Competitive Benefits:We offer acompetitive salaryfor entry-level (with regular reviews and growth potential) and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan with company match, paid time off, and more.Relocation assistanceis available for the right candidate if youre excited about the role and willing to move to join us in Central Illinois, we want to hear from you!