ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Parachute Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Outpost

Senior Paraglider & Parachute Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Sr. Paraglider & Parachute Engineer Location: Playa Vista, California (in-person, five days per ... Be willing to "cut cloth" and work with riggers and sewing technicians to prototype designs rapidly.

Apply Early

Outpost

Senior Paraglider & Parachute Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Sr. Paraglider & Parachute Engineer Location: Playa Vista, California (in-person, five days per ... Be willing to "cut cloth" and work with riggers and sewing technicians to prototype designs rapidly.

Inversion

Senior Build and Integration Technician

Vista, CA · On-site

$47 - $61/hr

... rigging, welding, machine operation, and more. If you're known to be a generalist who can make or ... Experience working with parachute design fundamentals, including working with relevant design ...

Inversion

Build and Integration Technician II

Vista, CA · On-site

$32 - $47/hr

... rigging, welding, machine operation, and more. If you're known to be a generalist who can make or ... Experience working with parachute design fundamentals, including working with relevant design ...

All JobsParachute Rigger JobsParachute Rigger Jobs in California

Parachute Rigger information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$47.2K

$71.6K

How much do parachute rigger jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for parachute rigger in California is $47,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,400.00 and $54,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a parachute rigger do?

A parachute rigger is responsible for packing, inspecting, repairing, and maintaining parachutes to ensure safety and proper deployment. They must follow strict safety standards, often work in hangars or maintenance facilities, and typically require certification or training in parachute rigging. Their work is critical for the safety of airborne operations and requires attention to detail and knowledge of parachute systems.

How much money do parachute riggers make?

Parachute riggers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. Skilled riggers with military or commercial experience may earn higher salaries, especially if working in specialized environments or with advanced equipment.

What is the difference between Parachute Rigger vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectParachute RiggerAircraft Maintenance Technician
CertificationsFAA Parachute Rigger CertificateFAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Certificate
Work EnvironmentAirports, parachute manufacturing, military basesAirlines, maintenance hangars, repair stations
Industry UsageMilitary, recreational, commercial parachutingAviation, commercial and private aircraft maintenance

Parachute Riggers focus on packing, inspecting, and repairing parachutes, often working in parachuting or military environments. Aircraft Maintenance Technicians perform repairs and inspections on aircraft, ensuring safety and compliance. While both roles require FAA certifications and work in aviation-related settings, their specific duties and certifications differ significantly.

What Does a Parachute Rigger Do?

Parachute riggers pack, unpack, inspect, and repair parachutes and other parachute equipment, such as lines, fabric, and backpacks. You usually find parachute riggers in the armed forces, but they also work in civilian aviation, particularly for small prop planes or skydiving companies. As a parachute rigger, you must understand how to manage and repair the parachute fabrics and hardware, as well as the regulations related to packing up a parachute. Some job duties may vary between military and civilian positions, but all parachute riggers must perform extensive quality assurance and testing to ensure that everyone who uses the parachutes they pack is safe when they make their jumps.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Parachute riggers typically do not earn $4,000 a week without specialized experience and certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades such as commercial pilots, certain sales roles, or entrepreneurship, but these usually require specific skills, licenses, or significant experience. Most jobs paying this amount without a degree are rare and often involve high risk or physical skill.

What are Parachute Riggers?

Parachute Riggers are specialized professionals trained to inspect, repair, pack, and maintain parachutes and related equipment to ensure they function safely and reliably. They work with various types of parachutes used in military, sport, and emergency applications. Their responsibilities also include conducting safety checks, replacing worn components, and sometimes providing training on parachute use. Parachute Riggers must be detail-oriented and often require certification to perform their duties legally.

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

To thrive as a Parachute Rigger, you need strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and a solid understanding of aerodynamics, often supported by specialized training and FAA certification. Familiarity with sewing machines, inspection tools, and parachute packing procedures is essential. Excellent problem-solving skills, reliability, and the ability to work under pressure set outstanding riggers apart. These skills ensure the safety and functionality of parachute equipment, which is critical for the lives of users.

What are some common challenges Parachute Riggers face during their daily responsibilities?

Parachute Riggers often encounter challenges such as maintaining meticulous attention to detail under time constraints, as improper packing or inspection can lead to serious safety risks. They must also keep up with rigorous documentation and adhere to strict regulatory standards, which can be demanding. Additionally, Riggers frequently work in environments where teamwork is essential, coordinating closely with pilots, jumpers, and maintenance staff to ensure all equipment is safe and ready for use.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying parachute rigger jobs are typically in the military, aerospace, or government sectors, where riggers often hold advanced certifications and security clearances. These roles may involve specialized equipment, higher responsibility, and longer hours, leading to increased compensation compared to standard civilian positions. Experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industries contribute to higher salaries for riggers.
More about Parachute Rigger jobs
What are popular job titles related to Parachute Rigger jobs in California? For Parachute Rigger jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Parachute Rigger jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Parachute Rigger jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Parachute Rigger jobs? Cities in California with the most Parachute Rigger job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Parachute Rigger jobs in CA? For Parachute Rigger jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Parachute Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Parachute Rigger job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,174 per year, or $22.7 per hour.
Parachute Rigger Support

Parachute Rigger Support

SkyBridge Tactical

Coronado, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

SkyBridge Tactical is a Prime Contractor for MSOFS and a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) headquartered in Tampa, FL, founded in 2008 to support our customers’ global security, operational and training needs, focusing on mission success in the most challenging environments. SBT current contracts address U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and U.S. Department of State (DoS) demand for highly skilled professionals to solve problems in the interest of national security.
Job Title: Master Parachute Rigger (Key Personnel)
Location: Coronado, CA
Start Date: 1 August 2026 contingent on award
Salary Range: $650,000-$110,000
Clearance: Active SECRET Clearance Required
Job Description:
We are actively recruiting an elite Parachute Rigger to support the Air Division’s LCPO in the day-to-day operations of maintaining tactical airborne systems.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Pack tactical and non-tactical Commercial off the Shelf (COTS) Ram Air Personnel Parachute Systems (RAPPS).
  • Pack and maintain military-owned parachute systems, including MT-2XX main/reserve and non-standard systems.
  • Actively maintain accurate and legible parachute history cards after each pack or maintenance action.
  • Perform minor and major repairs (patching canopies, line replacements, hand-tacking) in accordance with FAR part 65 and military technical manuals.
Mandatory Qualifications:
  • Must possess an FAA Master Rigger certificate (with back and chest rating) OR an FAA Senior Rigger certificate (with back rating) AND documented proof of having held one of the following military job codes: Navy 773A, Army 92R or 921A, or USMC 0451.
  • Must possess a validated certificate of graduation from U.S. Army Quartermaster Rigger School or CNATTU Learning Site Fort Lee for the MT-2XX parachute system.
  • Must have four (4) years minimum of maintenance experience in support of military airborne operations.
  • Must possess an active SECRET security clearance.
Benefits Overview
SkyBridge Tactical LLC provides a comprehensive fringe benefits package designed to promote employee well-being, financial stability, and professional growth.
Employees receive Paid Time Off (PTO), federal holidays, and additional leave options, including bereavement, jury duty, and parental leave.
SkyBridge also offers a range of medical insurance options, including plans with Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and access to wellness resources, as well as global medical insurance options for OCONUS employees.
Additional benefits include Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, and coverage under Workers’ Compensation or Defense Base Act (DBA) insurance for eligible employees.
To support income protection and financial security, SkyBridge Tactical offers Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance, and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD amp;D) coverage, with options for Dependent Coverage.
Employees are also eligible to participate in a 401(k) Retirement Plan.
SBT recognizes employee contributions through performance-based bonuses, recognition programs, and referral bonuses and supports career growth through professional development opportunities, including training and certification programs.
Family leave options further support employees in balancing professional and family responsibilities.
Disclaimer:
The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.

Apply