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Parachute Rigger Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

ELIGIBLE FOR UP TO A $45K SIGNING BONUS As a Parachute Rigger, you'll ensure the safety of every paratrooper you work with. You'll inspect, test, and pack parachutes, their extraction and release ...

Parachute Rigger information

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$11K

$47.9K

$72.7K

How much do parachute rigger jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for parachute rigger in Pennsylvania is $47,914.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $55,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money do parachute riggers make?

Parachute riggers typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certification level, and work environment. Experienced riggers with specialized skills or working for military or commercial operations can earn higher wages, sometimes exceeding $70,000 annually.

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 is a parachute rigger?

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.

How hard is it to become a parachute rigger?

Becoming a parachute rigger requires completing a specialized training program, which typically lasts several months and includes hands-on experience. Candidates must also pass written and practical exams and obtain certification from the Federal Aviation Administration or relevant authority, making it a process that demands technical skill and attention to detail.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Parachute Rigger jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Parachute Rigger jobs in Pennsylvania are:
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Infographic showing various Parachute Rigger job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,914 per year, or $23 per hour.

Parachute Rigger (92R)

U.S. Army

New Cumberland, PA • On-site

$23K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


United States Army rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 489 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

ELIGIBLE FOR UP TO A $45K SIGNING BONUS

As a Parachute Rigger, you’ll ensure the safety of every paratrooper you work with. You’ll inspect, test, and pack parachutes, their extraction and release systems, and all the associated components of the parachute system. You’ll be responsible for the safety and repair of all parachute equipment before, during, and after an airdrop operation. You’ll be responsible for assembling rigging components and securing all the supplies in the aircraft. 
  • 5 Nationally Recognized Certifications can be obtained within this MOS (Military Occupational Specialty), medical benefits, paid time off, and retirement plans. 
*Requires enlistment into the United States Army or United States Army Reserve.
 
Basic Eligibility Requirements:
  • Age: Between 17-35 years old.
  • Medical, Moral, Physical: Medically and physically capable, and in good moral standing.
  • Citizenship: A U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Green Card.
  • Education: A high school diploma or equivalent.

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About US Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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