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Ironworker Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Loenbro

Ironworker

San Diego, CA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

May include taking measurements, assisting with setting up rigging, unloading and shake out of material. * Install safety line and posts. * Clean work area and assist in keeping it safe. Minimum ...

Loenbro

Ironworker

San Diego, CA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

May include taking measurements, assisting with setting up rigging, unloading and shake out of material. * Install safety line and posts. * Clean work area and assist in keeping it safe. Minimum ...

Sure Steel, Inc.

Journeyman I - West

Redding, CA · On-site

$24 - $34/hr

... and rigging. This position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals with strong technical ... in ironworking. - Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in structural steel erection and welding ...

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Ironworker Rigger information

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$14

$26

$38

How much do ironworker rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for ironworker rigger in California is $26.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Ironworker Riggers face when working on large construction projects?

Ironworker Riggers often encounter challenges such as working at significant heights, handling heavy and awkward loads, and coordinating with multiple trades on busy job sites. Safety is a constant concern, requiring strict adherence to protocols and use of personal protective equipment. Additionally, weather conditions can impact schedules and create additional hazards, so adaptability and strong communication with team members are essential for success.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are often in specialized industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical plants, or large-scale construction projects, where riggers with advanced certifications and extensive experience can earn higher wages. Supervisory or lead rigger positions typically offer the highest pay due to increased responsibility and skill requirements.

What are Ironworker Riggers?

Ironworker Riggers are skilled tradespeople who specialize in moving, installing, and securing heavy structural steel and machinery on construction sites. They use cranes, hoists, and other rigging equipment to lift and position large components safely and accurately. Ironworker Riggers play a crucial role in constructing buildings, bridges, and other structures by ensuring that all heavy materials are handled properly to prevent accidents and ensure structural integrity.

What is the difference between Ironworker Rigger vs Structural Ironworker?

AspectIronworker RiggerStructural Ironworker
CertificationsOSHA 10/30, Rigging certificationsOSHA 10/30, sometimes rigging certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, focusing on rigging and hoistingSteel erection, assembling structural frameworks
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, steel fabricatorsSteel erection firms, construction projects
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Ironworker Riggers primarily focus on rigging and hoisting steel and heavy materials, while Structural Ironworkers specialize in assembling and installing steel frameworks. Both roles require similar certifications and work in construction environments, but their specific tasks differ. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right career path in the steel industry.

What does an ironworker rigger do?

An ironworker rigger is responsible for installing, moving, and securing steel and iron components at construction sites. They use cranes, hoists, and rigging equipment to lift heavy materials safely and precisely, often working at heights and requiring certifications in rigging and safety procedures.

Where do ironworkers make the most money?

Ironworkers tend to earn higher wages in regions with a high volume of large construction projects, such as major metropolitan areas and regions with significant infrastructure development. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in specialized environments can also influence earning potential. Overall, areas with strong construction industries typically offer the highest pay for ironworker riggers.

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

To thrive as an Ironworker Rigger, you need strong knowledge of rigging procedures, blueprint reading, structural assembly techniques, and typically an apprenticeship or relevant certification. Familiarity with rigging hardware, cranes, hoists, and safety systems such as OSHA standards is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, physical stamina, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure safe, precise, and efficient lifting and placement of heavy structural components on construction sites.

Is a rigger a hard job?

An ironworker rigger job involves physically demanding tasks such as lifting, positioning, and securing heavy steel and equipment, often at heights and in challenging environments. It requires strength, precision, and knowledge of safety protocols, making it a physically and mentally demanding occupation. Proper training and certifications are essential for safety and efficiency in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Ironworker Rigger jobs in California? For Ironworker Rigger jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ironworker Rigger jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Ironworker Rigger jobs in California are:
Ironworker Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ironworker Rigger job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 93% Full Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,959 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Northern Ca - Ironworker

Northern Ca - Ironworker

Anning-Johnson Company

Hayward, CA

$50.28/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Iron Workers at Anning-Johnson Co. are part of erecting some of the most interesting and iconic buildings in the US. We have helped to shape the skyline of many American cities.
Our ironworkers will need:
· A solid knowledge of blueprints, and shop drawings.
· Must be able take follow all company safety guidelines and safe practices.
· Install Metal Decking and accessories using blueprints and measurements.
· Installation of closure at perimeters and interiors of the building using survey marks and lines to insure proper placement.
· Solid knowledge of rigging.
· Comfort with moving metal decking and large tools at height.
· Be willing to teach apprentices the trade.
· Clean up of all trade related materials for a clean concrete ready floor or roof deck.
An ironworker has a lot of responsibility and accountability to not only to erect and put together a building in a timely manner using heavy equipment, and cranes hoisting the metal decking overhead into place, for the protection of themselves and other trades.
Iron workers must meet strict building codes and tolerances. Examples: producing a perfect weld with no flaws, keeping the building plumb, keeping the floors roofs and closures straight in an environment where items are constantly in motion.

NOTE: In the San Francisco Bay area wages range from $25.14 per hour for entry level apprentices to $50.28 per hour for Journeyman. Wages are determined by union scale as determined in the current collective bargaining agreement.

Anning-Johnson Co is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of the Company to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disability status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.