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Parachute Rigger Jobs in Ridgecrest, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Parachute Rigger information

See Ridgecrest, CA salary details

$10.9K

$47.5K

$72K

How much do parachute rigger jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for parachute rigger in Ridgecrest, CA is $47,470.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,700.00 and $54,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

How hard is it to become a parachute rigger?

Becoming a parachute rigger requires completing specialized training and obtaining certification from the Federal Aviation Administration or relevant authority. The process involves technical coursework, hands-on experience, and passing written and practical exams, making it a challenging but achievable career path for those with attention to detail and technical skills.

How much money do parachute riggers make?

Parachute riggers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certification level, and employer. Skilled riggers with certifications and military or commercial experience may earn higher salaries, often working in specialized environments that require attention to safety standards and proper packing procedures.
More about Parachute Rigger jobs
Parachute Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Parachute Rigger job openings in Ridgecrest, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,470 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

CBA Aircraft Mechanic II - Parachute Rigger - F18

V2X

China Lake, CA

$51.06/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

V2X rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 451 rated engineering

Job description

Overview

Working across the globe, V2X builds smart solutions designed to integrate physical and digital infrastructure from base to battlefield. We bring 120 years of successful mission support to improve security, streamline logistics, and enhance readiness. Aligned around a shared purpose, our $4.5B company and 16,000 people work alongside our clients, here and abroad, to tackle their most complex challenges with integrity, respect, responsibility, and professionalism.


Responsibilities

Inspect, maintain and repair parachutes, seat pans, survival equipment, flight protective equipment and clothing, pack and rig parachutes, pack and equip life rafts. Fit and maintain; oxygen masks, flight clothing, anti-exposure suits and anti-G suits; operate and maintain carbon dioxide transfer and recharge equipment; operate and repair sewing machines; conduct special calendar/periodic inspections of survival equipment; supervise operation of parachute lofts and survival equipment work centers. Routine lifting in excess of OSHA standards is required. Routine ordnance loading will require team lifts of ordnance items up to 167 pounds’ load share per team member, in accordance with standard USN procedures.


Qualifications
  • Three years of practical experience at the O or I-level, performed within the last five years, is required.
  • Shall be a qualified Parachute Rigger (PR) “A” School graduate or equivalent Air Force or Army Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) course in accordance with the CNAFINST 4790.2 (series) to be allowed to perform Aviation Life Support Systems (ALSS) system maintenance
  • High School graduate or equivalent.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license.
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) Secret Level security clearance
  • Candidates must have been released from military service with an Honorable Discharge to meet minimum qualifications.

Salary - $51.06

  • Benefits include the following:
  • Healthcare coverage
  • Retirement plan
  • Life insurance, AD&D, and disability benefits
  • Wellness programs
  • Paid time off, including holidays
  • Learning and Development resources
  • Employee assistance resources
  • Pay and benefits are subject to change at any time and may be modified at the discretion of the company, consistent with the terms of any applicable compensation or benefit plans.

At V2X, we are deeply committed to both equal employment opportunity, including protection for Veterans and individuals with disabilities, and fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We ensure all individuals are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity, recognizing the strength that comes from a workforce rich in diverse experiences, perspectives, and skills. This commitment, aligned with our core Vision and Values of Integrity, Respect, and Responsibility, allows us to leverage differences, encourage innovation, and expand our success in the global marketplace, ultimately enabling us to best serve our clients.

Qualifications:
  • Three years of practical experience at the O or I-level, performed within the last five years, is required.
  • Shall be a qualified Parachute Rigger (PR) “A” School graduate or equivalent Air Force or Army Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) course in accordance with the CNAFINST 4790.2 (series) to be allowed to perform Aviation Life Support Systems (ALSS) system maintenance
  • High School graduate or equivalent.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license.
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) Secret Level security clearance
  • Candidates must have been released from military service with an Honorable Discharge to meet minimum qualifications.

Salary - $51.06

  • Benefits include the following:
  • Healthcare coverage
  • Retirement plan
  • Life insurance, AD&D, and disability benefits
  • Wellness programs
  • Paid time off, including holidays
  • Learning and Development resources
  • Employee assistance resources
  • Pay and benefits are subject to change at any time and may be modified at the discretion of the company, consistent with the terms of any applicable compensation or benefit plans.

At V2X, we are deeply committed to both equal employment opportunity, including protection for Veterans and individuals with disabilities, and fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We ensure all individuals are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity, recognizing the strength that comes from a workforce rich in diverse experiences, perspectives, and skills. This commitment, aligned with our core Vision and Values of Integrity, Respect, and Responsibility, allows us to leverage differences, encourage innovation, and expand our success in the global marketplace, ultimately enabling us to best serve our clients.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What V2X employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About V2X

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1945

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