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Pipe Rigger Jobs in Yelm, WA (NOW HIRING)

Pipe Foreman

Chehalis, WA · On-site

$34.84 - $58.07/hr

Current certification in First Aid, CPR, CDL, Confined Space, Competent Person, Erosion and Sediment Control, Flagging Card, Rigging and Signaling * Ability to create a two-three week "look-ahead ...

Maintenance Technician

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$43.84 - $46.50/hr

... pipes, terminal building, etc. * Performs integrity inspections and pressure tests on terminal ... Operate forklifts, rigging equipment and dollies to place heavy machinery and parts. * Install ...

Pipe Rigger information

See Yelm, WA salary details

$17

$27

$53

How much do pipe rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for pipe rigger in Yelm, WA is $27.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.44 and $27.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Pipe Rigger, you need expertise in rigging techniques, blueprint reading, and pipe installation, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant apprenticeship or training. Familiarity with rigging equipment, hoists, cranes, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring safe, precise, and efficient pipe installation and movement in industrial settings.

What are some common challenges Pipe Riggers face on large construction projects, and how can they overcome them?

Pipe Riggers on large construction projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating lifts with multiple teams, working in confined or elevated spaces, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to ensure that heavy pipes and equipment are safely moved and installed. Familiarity with rigging plans, continuous safety training, and proactive problem-solving help Pipe Riggers navigate these challenges while maintaining project timelines and minimizing risk.

What are pipe riggers?

Pipe riggers are skilled tradespeople who specialize in the installation, alignment, and securing of piping systems in industrial, construction, and manufacturing settings. They are responsible for moving, positioning, and supporting pipes using cranes, hoists, and other rigging equipment, ensuring that all components are safely and accurately placed. Pipe riggers work closely with pipefitters, welders, and engineers to assemble piping systems according to specifications, often in challenging environments such as refineries, shipyards, and chemical plants.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are often in specialized industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, or heavy construction, where riggers with extensive experience, certifications, and skills in crane operation or complex rigging procedures can earn higher wages. Supervisory or lead rigging positions typically offer increased pay compared to entry-level roles. Advanced certifications like NCCER or NCCCO can also contribute to higher salaries in this field.

What is the difference between Pipe Rigger vs Pipefitter?

AspectPipe RiggerPipefitter
CertificationsOSHA safety training, rigging certificationsOSHA safety training, pipefitting certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial plantsRefineries, manufacturing facilities, industrial plants
Job ResponsibilitiesAssembling and installing pipe supports, rigging heavy pipesMeasuring, cutting, fitting, and welding pipes

While both roles involve working with pipes in industrial settings, Pipe Riggers primarily focus on rigging and installing heavy pipes and equipment, whereas Pipefitters handle the precise fitting, cutting, and welding of pipes. Both require safety certifications and often work together on large projects, but their core tasks differ significantly.

How much are riggers paid?

Riggers, including pipe riggers, typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized tools may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or construction environments with overtime opportunities.

What qualifications do riggers need?

Pipe riggers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete specialized training or apprenticeships in rigging and safety procedures. Certifications such as OSHA safety training and rigging licenses are often required, along with physical fitness and the ability to operate rigging tools and equipment.

Is rigger a tough job?

Pipe riggers perform physically demanding work that involves lifting heavy pipes and working at heights, often in challenging environments. The job requires good physical fitness, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to operate specialized tools and equipment, making it a physically and mentally demanding occupation. Proper training and certifications are important for safety and efficiency.
What job categories do people searching Pipe Rigger jobs in Yelm, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Pipe Rigger jobs in Yelm, WA are:
Infographic showing various Pipe Rigger job openings in Yelm, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,323 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Pipe Foreman

TAPANI, Inc.

Chehalis, WA • On-site

$34.84 - $58.07/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Tapani Inc. rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
Since starting in 1983, Tapani has evolved from a single-person operation to a family-led legacy, maintaining a fun and friendly environment from the beginning. With a large team across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, we now cover five diverse market sectors: Civil Site Development, Buildings, Environmental, Transportation, and Utility Infrastructure. The consistent dedication to our core values has helped us grow, creating more opportunities for our current team and the need for new teammates.
Take a look what our current employees say about working for Tapani: Tapani Careers
Job Purpose and Summary
The Foreman is responsible for the management of the onsite crew(s) on a project. The Foreman will lead the crew by creating a daily and weekly plan alongside the Superintendent and communicate the daily requirements to the crew. The Foreman is to ensure that all the crew members are properly trained for top performance. The Foreman also assists the crew to assure that Tapani Inc provides a quality product to the owner.
Responsibilities
  • Planning and scheduling
  • Management and productions of the crew
  • Site safety and training
  • Administrative tracking
  • Ensure the crew has all the necessary tools to complete the required task
  • Communicate the process to the crew
  • Ensure OSHA standards are adhered to
  • Promote an atmosphere of teamwork and understanding of each crew members abilities
  • Schedule equipment repairs
  • Communicate with the Superintendent to fully understand the path to the end result
  • Communicate the weekly plan to the crew and on a daily basis ensure each crew member has a clear understanding of their responsibilities for the day
  • Track time and quantities and complete daily time cards and daily reports.
  • Complete incident reports and take photos as necessary
  • Utilize the power of teamwork to create efficiency and quality throughout the project
  • Promote a learning and teaching environment amongst the crew

Job Requirements and Qualifications
  • High school education or equivalent
  • Previous experience in all areas the Foreman oversees
  • Quality Control
  • Must be able to clearly articulate ideas and plans from thought to action
  • Read and create a plan of action from blue prints
  • Understanding of the operations and maintenance of all equipment utilized on site
  • Ability to generate efficient methods quickly to resolve roadblocks
  • Ability to foster Tapani Inc culture: create strong, efficient teams, foster a positive attitude, create a fun environment to work at every day
  • Ability to recognize brewing conflicts and diffuse conflicts
  • Ability to recognize talents and utilize them correctly
  • Current certification in First Aid, CPR, CDL, Confined Space, Competent Person, Erosion and Sediment Control, Flagging Card, Rigging and Signaling
  • Ability to create a two-three week "look-ahead" schedule
  • Must have basic computer/technical skills and willing to learn new technology
  • Able to identify soil types
  • Be able to call in locates
  • Train, coach, and mentor their subordinates
  • Understand and incorporate standard construction practices, but still be able to think "outside the box" safely, with means and methods.
  • Honest, open, and friendly and have sound judgment
  • Ability to understand, decide, and change a project for positive progress
  • Familiar with varying municipal codes and construction practices
  • Physical ability to lift, push, pull, and carry heavy loads
  • Dress and conduct themselves in a professional and respectable manner

Working Environment
  • Working conditions for this position will be mainly on project site
  • Hours worked will be weather dependent along with schedule requirements. Summer time typically is longer hours and winter typically is shorter hours due to daylight. Work may require weekend work when project demands.

Compensation and Benefits
  • Pay: $34.84 - $58.07 per hour (based on qualifications and experience)
  • Monthly $75 phone allowance or company phone
  • Comprehensive Medical Insurance plans with low to $0 monthly premiums
  • Additional voluntary insurance options include: Dental, Vision, and a wide variety of Supplemental insurances.
  • Flexible Paid Time Off and Sick Time
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k) options with up to 4% employer match
  • See the full list of benefits here

What Tapani Inc. employees say

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