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.

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 24, 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 the most commonly searched types of Parachute Rigger jobs in California? The most popular types of Parachute Rigger jobs in California are:
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,174 per year, or $22.7 per hour.
Parachute Rigger with Security Clearance

Parachute Rigger with Security Clearance

Ascendancy Group LTD

Coronado, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

The Ascendancy Group’s Mission To be the unequaled provider of special operations forces (SOF) and Intelligence Community focused technical, service, and training-based solutions. *This position is contingent upon contract award. Opportunity Overview The objective of this position is to provide logistics support services to supplement the NSWG-1 LOGSU-1 workforces and help it achieve continued effective operations and sustain adequate logistics support to NSWG1. The Parachute Rigger will report to the Air Division’s Leading Chief Petty Officer (LCPO) and assist Air Division’s LCPO and LPO with the day-to-day operations of Air Division to include the responsibilities listed below.  Security Requirement: * Must maintain a SECRET clearance. Roles and Responsibilities: * Muster each morning with the packing deck supervisor in order to receive instructions for the day.
* Pack tactical and non-tactical Commercial off the Shelf (COTS) Ram Air Personnel Parachute Systems (RAPPS). Must be qualified to pack and maintain military owned parachutes systems to include but not limited to the following: MT-2XX main/reserve and non-standard main/reserve. Qualifications and certifications are listed below.
* Pack all and maintain all systems in accordance with military technical manuals and/or the manufacture’s recommendations.
* Fill out and actively maintain parachute history cards after each parachute is packed or maintenance is performed. It is imperative that all log entries are both accurate and fully legible.
* Perform repairs such as the patching of canopies, line replacements, hand-tacking and so on in accordance with FAR part 65, applicable military technical manuals & FAA-H-8083-17 Parachute Rigger Handbook PG 1-2. The two types of certificates differ in the level of experience and responsibility. 
* Contracted personnel may be required to assist in military Rigger activity in and around active and in-active aircraft at the discretion of the work supervisor, and qualification level if qualified, perform any job duties on or related to oxygen equipment
* Contractors will not perform parachute jumps, fast roping, or rappelling from government/military aircraft in the performance of air operational duties. Requirements * Must possess FAA Master Rigge certificate with back and chest rating or 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 a minimum of four (4) years maintenance experience in support of military airborne operations.
* Possess a valid state driver’s license. 
* Be able to drive Government-owned trucks, forklifts and vans. No CDL license required. 
* Be able to operate a Personal Computer (PC) with common/standard business software programs. Be proficient in Microsoft Office applications, to include Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint. 
* Have direct knowledge of installation level and strategic support logistic programs and systems that relate to logistic capability and capacity. 
* Possess an excellent work ethic. 
* Have excellent verbal and written communication skills. 
* Pay strong attention to detail and be highly accurate in performing all tasks. 
* Perform duties independently, with minimal oversight. 
* Be able to write correspondence in a military format, when necessary. * The following are additional qualifications/certifications that are desired:
* Possess a validated certificate of graduation from U.S. Army Quartermaster Rigger School or CNATTU Learning Site Fort Lee for the MC-6, T-11R, and cargo parachute systems. 
* If a FAA Senior Rigger, have a chest rating 
* Joint Airdrop Inspector (JAI) The Ascendancy Group (TAG) was founded on and thrives based on relationships, reputation, and trust. We are passionate about everything we do.  One hundred percent of our government-focused teammates are former members of the Department of War or the Intelligence Community who still believe in supporting our nation. We offer like-minded individuals the opportunity to continue working in small teams on unique and challenging problem sets that further our nation's security. If you possess the experience, qualifications and drive required for this position, please APPLY NOW for consideration!

Apply