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Lead Rigger Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Rigging Coordinator

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Perform functions as a lead rigger, including up-rigging, down-rigging, and crew lead. * Leads and oversees Rigging setups and removals. * Ensures proper and safe rigging procedures are followed on ...

Rigging Coordinator

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Perform functions as a lead rigger, including up-rigging, down-rigging, and crew lead. * Leads and oversees Rigging setups and removals. * Ensures proper and safe rigging procedures are followed on ...

Operator

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Tests rigging to ensure safety and reliability before engaging in hoisting or lifting * Supervisory Responsibilities: Ability to respectfully confront people when needed and lead through example

Operator

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Tests rigging to ensure safety and reliability before engaging in hoisting or lifting * Supervisory Responsibilities: Ability to respectfully confront people when needed and lead through example

Operator

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Tests rigging to ensure safety and reliability before engaging in hoisting or lifting * Supervisory Responsibilities: Ability to respectfully confront people when needed and lead through example

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Lead Rigger information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$23

$33

How much do lead rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead rigger in Tennessee is $23.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lead Rigger, you need expertise in rigging techniques, load calculations, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant rigging certifications. Familiarity with equipment such as cranes, hoists, slings, and industry-standard safety systems (e.g., OSHA regulations) is crucial. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help ensure safe and efficient teamwork on complex projects. These skills and qualifications are vital for preventing accidents, managing crews effectively, and delivering reliable results in demanding environments.

What are some common challenges Lead Riggers face when coordinating large-scale projects, and how can they be addressed?

Lead Riggers often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, last-minute equipment changes, and ensuring the safety of both crew and equipment during complex setups. Effective communication with production teams and thorough pre-planning are key to overcoming these obstacles. Utilizing up-to-date rigging software and adhering strictly to safety protocols also helps maintain timelines and minimize risks. Building a strong, collaborative team and conducting regular safety briefings are industry best practices that support successful project execution.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are often in specialized industries such as offshore oil and gas, aerospace, or large-scale construction, where riggers with advanced certifications and extensive experience can earn six-figure salaries. Roles like offshore rigger or senior rigging supervisor typically offer the highest compensation due to the demanding environment and technical expertise required.

What is the difference between Lead Rigger vs Rigger?

AspectLead RiggerRigger
CredentialsCertifications in rigging, safety, and sometimes specialized equipmentBasic rigging certifications or on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentSupervisory role on construction sites, film sets, or industrial projectsHands-on rigging work in similar environments
ResponsibilitiesOversees rigging teams, plans rigging operations, ensures safety compliancePerforms rigging tasks, sets up equipment, assists in lifting operations

The main difference between a Lead Rigger and a Rigger is that the Lead Rigger has supervisory responsibilities, planning, and safety oversight, while a Rigger focuses on executing rigging tasks. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but the Lead Rigger manages teams and coordinates operations.

Do riggers get paid well?

Lead riggers typically earn competitive salaries that reflect their specialized skills in equipment setup, safety protocols, and working in demanding environments. Compensation varies based on experience, industry, and location, with many earning above average wages for skilled trades. Certifications and proficiency with rigging tools can also influence pay levels.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Lead Riggers in specialized industries such as film production, large-scale construction, or offshore oil and gas often have the potential to earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-demand environments. These roles typically require advanced skills in rigging, safety protocols, and equipment operation, and may involve long or irregular hours.

What are Lead Riggers?

Lead Riggers are experienced professionals responsible for overseeing the setup, operation, and safety of rigging systems used to move and secure heavy equipment, structures, or scenery, especially in industries like construction, entertainment, and events. They supervise rigging teams, ensure all lifting operations comply with safety regulations, and coordinate closely with other departments to execute complex lifts or installations. A Lead Rigger must have extensive knowledge of rigging techniques, load calculations, and equipment, as well as strong leadership and problem-solving skills.

What does a Lead Rigger do?

A Lead Rigger is responsible for overseeing the rigging process in film, television, or game development, ensuring that models and characters are properly prepared for animation and visual effects. They design and implement complex rigging systems, coordinate with artists and animators, and often use tools like Maya or Blender. Strong technical skills, understanding of anatomy or mechanical systems, and leadership abilities are essential for this role.
What are popular job titles related to Lead Rigger jobs in Tennessee? For Lead Rigger jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lead Rigger jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Rigger jobs in Tennessee are:
Event Rigger, Audio Visual - Gaylord Opryland

Event Rigger, Audio Visual - Gaylord Opryland

Encore

Nashville, TN โ€ข On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position Overview
Responsible for performing rigging activities in a Hospitality or convention center environment while upholding safety and quality standards per all trade, Encore/property guidelines and SOP's. Reports to Lead Rigger or Rigging Coordinator.
Key Job Responsibilities
Rigging
โ€ข Gather and organize all rigging tools and equipment per event needs.
โ€ข Confirm carpet protected as required by local conditions.
โ€ข Provide ground rigging support to teams building points from lifts by staging motors and equipment under rig points, handing up motor chain, tools and equipment and spotting lift movements.
โ€ข Establish hang-point, connect hoist and attachments to permanent rigging points, connect GAC Flex spanset attachments to truss, connect/run and dress motor cables, run cable picks, ensure safety of scenic elements to hang-points and proper use of all truss protection equipment, inspect all cabling tie-offs.
โ€ข Check that all truss bolts are tight, and pieces of flown equipment are safe tied to truss.
โ€ข Support other trades needing help raising gear through use of motor or lift, and check work for safety.
โ€ข Remain on site until all motors have been raised to trim.
Safety
โ€ข Responsible for observing and maintaining all safety concerns during an event, including escalation of any observations of personnel who are acting in an unsafe manner.
โ€ข Ensure the power phasing of motor controller is appropriate to prevent limit switches from being defeated.
โ€ข Verify all elements are securely fastened and checked for safety.
โ€ข Must secure and maintain proper lift and/or Working at Height certifications as necessary.
โ€ข Follow all manufactures recommendations and local conditions when using personnel lifts.
โ€ข Riggers must be qualified prior to making any temporary rigging points or any points outside of a protected lift of any kind.
Project Management
โ€ข Secure and review advanced rigging plan and execute through Rigging Coordinator/Lead Rigger or other leadership supervision.
โ€ข Identify possible rigging obstacles and recommend solutions to resolve issues.
โ€ข Assist other technical trades with coordination efforts to execute show plot in harmony with all floor activity.
Maintenance
โ€ข Provide ongoing visual inspection of all hardware in use including truss, motors, lighting, sound, projection, and personnel lifts.
โ€ข Escalate any problems with hardware and recommend solutions to resolve issues to supervisor.
Job Qualifications
โ€ข High school diploma or equivalent
โ€ข 500+ hours of onsite rigging experience
โ€ข Qualified-Basic Rigging certification
โ€ข Lift Certification
โ€ข Lift operation experience
โ€ข Ground Rigging experience
โ€ข High rigging with harness experience
โ€ข Previous experience supervising a rigging team preferred
Competencies
Deliver World Class Service
โ€ข Hospitality
โ€ข Ownership
Do The Right Thing
โ€ข Demonstrates Self-Awareness
Drive Results
โ€ข Ensures Accountability
See The Big Picture
โ€ข Decision Quality
โ€ข Manages Complexity
Value People
โ€ข Collaborates
For more information on our Competency Group, refer to the Competency Based Talent Management page on Encore Connect by searching for the title or copy & pasting this URL Link (https://psav.sharepoint.com/sites/HR/SitePages/Competency-Supported-Talent-Management.aspx).
Physical Requirements
Team members must be able to meet the physical demands outlined below to successfully perform the essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
โ€ข Sitting: 1-2 hours per day
โ€ข Standing: 2-3 hours per day
โ€ข Walking: 3-4 hours per day
โ€ข Stooping: 0-1 hours per day
โ€ข Crawling: 0-1 hours per day
โ€ข Kneeling: 0-1 hours per day
โ€ข Bending: 1-2 hours per day
โ€ข Reaching (above your head): 1-2 hours per day
โ€ข Climbing: 2-3 hours per day
โ€ข Grasping: 1-2 hours per day
Lifting Requirements
โ€ข Lifting 0 - 15 lbs*: Frequently
โ€ข Lifting 16 - 50 lbs*: Frequently
โ€ข Lifting 51 - 100 lbs: Occasionally
โ€ข Lifting Over 100 lbs: Occasionally
Carrying Requirements
โ€ข Carrying 0 - 15 lbs*: Frequently
โ€ข Carrying 16 - 50 lbs*: Frequently
โ€ข Carrying 51 - 100 lbs: Occasionally
โ€ข Carrying Over 100 lbs: Occasionally
Auditory/Visual Requirements
โ€ข Close Vision: Frequently
โ€ข Distance Vision: Frequently
โ€ข Color Vision: Frequently
โ€ข Peripheral Vision: Occasionally
โ€ข Depth Perception: Frequently
โ€ข Hearing: Continuously
Pushing/Pulling Requirements
โ€ข Pushing/Pulling 0 - 15 lbs*: Frequently
โ€ข Pushing/Pulling 16 - 50 lbs*: Frequently
โ€ข Pushing/Pulling 51 - 100 lbs*: Occasionally
โ€ข Pushing/Pulling Over 100 lbs: Occasionally
Note: The physical requirements marked with an asterisk () indicate activities performed without assistance.*
Team members must be able to meet the physical demands above in order to successfully perform the essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work Environment
Hotel
Work is performed in a hotel/convention center environment with moderate exposure to outdoor temperatures and to dirt, sand and/or dust. The working conditions will vary between moderately quiet to noisy volumes. Team members will use high-end audio-visual equipment and electrical components and will be exposed to heights via lifts and ladders. Team members may be asked to work in multiple hotel locations. Working times will include irregular hours and on-call status including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Team members must adhere to appearance guidelines as defined by Encore based on an individual hotel or a representation of hotels in that city or area.
The above information on this description is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, efforts, requirements or working conditions associated with the job. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned.
#LI-JM1
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.