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Rigger Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arborist Climber Trainee

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working ... Rigging * Cabling and bracing * Removal of hazardous trees * Tree identification * Properly ...

Arborist Climber Trainee

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working ... Rigging * Cabling and bracing * Removal of hazardous trees * Tree identification * Properly ...

Arborist Climber Trainee

Lexington, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working ... Rigging * Cabling and bracing * Removal of hazardous trees * Tree identification * Properly ...

Arborist Climber Trainee

Stamford, CT · On-site

$19.25 - $25/hr

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working ... Rigging * Cabling and bracing * Removal of hazardous trees * Tree identification * Properly ...

Arborist Climber Trainee

Simsbury, CT · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working ... Rigging * Cabling and bracing * Removal of hazardous trees * Tree identification * Properly ...

Arborist Climber Trainee

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working ... Rigging * Cabling and bracing * Removal of hazardous trees * Tree identification * Properly ...

Arborist Climber Trainee

Bethel, CT · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working ... Rigging * Cabling and bracing * Removal of hazardous trees * Tree identification * Properly ...

Arborist Climber Trainee

Irwin, PA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working ... Rigging * Cabling and bracing * Removal of hazardous trees * Tree identification * Properly ...

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Rigger Trainee information

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$14

$26

$36

How much do rigger trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for rigger trainee in the United States is $26.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rigger trainee?

Rigger trainees are entry-level workers who assist experienced riggers in setting up and moving heavy equipment, materials, or machinery, often on construction sites, shipyards, or in the entertainment industry. They learn how to safely attach loads, operate lifting devices, and follow safety protocols under supervision. Rigger trainees gain practical skills on the job, preparing them for more advanced roles as they progress in their careers. Training typically includes both hands-on experience and classroom instruction focused on safety and rigging techniques.

What are the typical responsibilities of a rigger trainee during a project?

As a Rigger Trainee, you can expect to assist in preparing and setting up lifting equipment, inspecting rigging gear for safety, and helping to move heavy loads under the supervision of experienced riggers. Your daily tasks may include attaching loads to cranes, following detailed instructions, and ensuring all safety protocols are observed. You'll also learn how to read lift plans and signals, gradually taking on more complex duties as you gain experience. Collaboration with crane operators, site supervisors, and fellow riggers is essential to ensure safe and efficient operations.

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

To thrive as a Rigger Trainee, you need a basic understanding of rigging principles, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with rigging hardware, hand tools, and safety systems, as well as OSHA or NCCER certifications, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to follow instructions set outstanding candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient movement of heavy loads and preventing workplace accidents.

What is the difference between Rigger Trainee vs Rigger?

AspectRigger TraineeRigger
CertificationsBasic safety and rigging certifications, on-the-job trainingAdvanced rigging certifications, specialized licenses
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction sites, industrial settingsActive rigging sites, construction, industrial, or maritime environments
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with rigging tasks, learning safety protocolsPerforming rigging, lifting, and securing loads independently

In summary, a Rigger Trainee is in the learning phase, focusing on gaining skills and certifications under supervision, while a Rigger is an experienced professional responsible for executing rigging tasks independently in various industrial settings.

How to become a rigger trainee with no experience?

To become a rigger trainee, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should seek entry-level positions or apprenticeships in construction, manufacturing, or entertainment industries. Gaining knowledge of rigging tools, safety procedures, and basic physical fitness is important, and some employers may require or prefer certifications such as OSHA safety training. On-the-job training is common, and gaining experience with lifting equipment and understanding load calculations can improve prospects.

How to get experience as a rigger trainee?

To gain experience as a rigger trainee, individuals typically start by completing relevant safety and rigging training courses, which may lead to entry-level positions in construction, manufacturing, or entertainment industries. On-the-job training under experienced riggers is essential to develop skills in equipment setup, load calculations, and safety protocols. Obtaining certifications such as OSHA or NCCER can also improve job prospects and practical knowledge.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Rigger jobs?

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Infographic showing various Rigger Trainee job openings in the United States 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 $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.

Arborist Climber Trainee

Bartlett Tree Experts

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Bartlett Tree Experts rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 36 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

Overview
If you enjoy working outdoors in a professional and safe environment, consider a career with Bartlett Tree Experts! At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development.
As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working alongside Bartlett's dedicated team of arborists, gaining practical field experience in scientific tree and shrub care on commercial and residential properties. This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on, on-the-job training.
Benefits
We offer competitive compensation, as well as:
  • A safety-first culture and professional workplace
  • Advancement opportunities - we promote from within
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Industry credential/license pay increases - we encourage and invest in your professional development
  • Company provided uniforms, PPE, gear, and equipment
  • Boot reimbursement up to $150
  • Employee referral bonus program
  • Access to training, continuing education programs, and a variety of resources provided by the Bartlett Tree Experts Research Laboratories in Charlotte, NC

To find out more about what life is like at Bartlett, check us out on Instagram @LifeatBartlett.
Responsibilities
As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will play an important role in:
  • Learning through on-the-job training to safely perform all aspects of arboriculture, including:
    • Tree climbing
    • Pruning
    • Rigging
    • Cabling and bracing
    • Removal of hazardous trees
    • Tree identification
    • Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts)
    • Implementing work zone safety procedures
    • Assisting Arborist Climbers and Arborist Crew Leaders working on the ground and aloft
    • Assisting with driving, backing, dumping, and parking duties
  • Learning, understanding, and adhering to all safety rules and company safety policies

Qualifications
  • A passion for nature, the environment, and the outdoors
  • Interest in working outdoors year-round in all weather conditions
  • Valid driver's license
  • A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to work on a multi-disciplinary team
  • Prior tree care, landscaping, forestry, turf care, or horticulture experience is preferred but not required
  • Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Turfgrass, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Outdoor Recreation, Agriculture or a related field is preferred but not required

The F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.
Location : Name
Charlottesville
Location : State/Province
VA
Category
Production Arborist
Latest Post Date: englishcareers
7/16/2026
Type
Regular Full-Time

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