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Rigging Instructor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Rigging Instructor information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$47.4K

$71.9K

How much do rigging instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for rigging instructor in Virginia is $47,389.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,600.00 and $54,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rigging instructor?

To thrive as a Rigging Instructor, you need in-depth knowledge of rigging techniques, safety standards, and industry regulations, often backed by relevant certifications such as NCCCO or equivalent. Familiarity with rigging hardware, load calculation software, and inspection tools is typically required. Strong communication, instructional ability, and attention to detail help ensure effective teaching and the safety of trainees. These skills are critical for preparing others to perform rigging tasks safely and competently in high-risk environments.

What are some common challenges rigging instructors face when training new students, and how can these be addressed?

Rigging Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels among students, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, and keeping trainees engaged during repetitive hands-on exercises. To address these issues, instructors can use a blend of theory and practical demonstrations, foster an open environment for questions, and incorporate real-life scenarios to highlight the importance of proper rigging techniques. Additionally, providing clear feedback and individualized support helps trainees build confidence and competence, ensuring they are well-prepared for real-world rigging situations.

What is a rigging instructor?

Rigging instructors are professionals who teach the principles and practices of rigging, which involves safely lifting, moving, and securing loads using equipment such as ropes, chains, slings, and cranes. They provide hands-on and classroom training to students or workers in industries like construction, entertainment, maritime, and manufacturing. Their goal is to ensure that trainees understand safety procedures, rigging techniques, and proper equipment use to prevent accidents and comply with regulations.

How to become a rigging instructor?

To become a rigging instructor, one typically needs extensive experience in rigging, often several years working in the field, along with a strong understanding of safety standards and rigging equipment. Certification in rigging or related safety courses, such as OSHA or industry-specific certifications, is often required or preferred. Additionally, good communication skills and the ability to teach technical skills are important for this role.

What is the difference between Rigging Instructor vs Rigging Supervisor?

AspectRigging InstructorRigging Supervisor
CertificationsOSHA safety training, rigging certificationsOSHA safety training, rigging certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, on-site classesConstruction sites, industrial settings
Primary ResponsibilitiesTeaching rigging techniques, safety protocolsOverseeing rigging operations, managing teams

While both roles require rigging certifications and safety knowledge, a Rigging Instructor focuses on training and education, whereas a Rigging Supervisor manages and supervises rigging activities on-site. The instructor role is more instructional, while the supervisor role involves leadership and operational oversight.

Infographic showing various Rigging Instructor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,389 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Journeyman Lineman Instructor

Centura College

Norfolk, VA

$60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Journeyman Lineworker / Lineman Instructor - Norfolk, Virginia 

Up to $60/Hour | $2,500 Sign-On Bonus | Consistent Weekday Schedule | Four-Day Workweek Option

Schedule

  • Monday-Thursday: 8:30 AM-4:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
  • Four-day workweek option available

Take Your Lineman Career from the Field to the Classroom

Centura College is hiring an experienced Journeyman Lineman / Electrical Lineworker Instructor to train the next generation of electrical lineworkers.

If you have hands-on experience in electrical linework, power distribution, telecommunications, or related linework, this is an opportunity to put that experience to work in a new way.

As a Lineworker Instructor, you'll combine classroom instruction with hands-on training in pole climbing, lineworker safety, electrical distribution, rigging, pole-top rescue, aerial framing, bucket truck operations, digger derrick operations, grounding, and OSHA/NESC safety standards.

You can stay connected to the lineworker trade while moving into a more consistent weekday schedule with competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, a $2,500 sign-on bonus, and the option of a four-day workweek.

Why Experienced Lineman and Lineworkers Consider Teaching?
  • Earn up to $60/hour based on experience, qualifications, and other relevant factors.
  • Receive a $2,500 sign-on bonus.
  • Work a consistent weekday schedule.
  • Take advantage of a four-day workweek option.
  • Stay hands-on with lineworker training, pole climbing, rescue, rigging, and utility equipment.
  • Use your field experience to train and mentor future electrical lineworkers.
  • Receive comprehensive employee benefits, including health coverage available on your first day of employment.
  • Continue developing professionally while remaining connected to the utility and electrical linework industry.

What You'll Do as a Lineworker Instructor

The Electrical Lineworker program prepares students for entry-level careers in the utility and electrical power distribution industry through classroom instruction, safety training, and hands-on fieldwork.

As a Journeyman Lineman / Lineworker Instructor, you'll help students develop the technical skills, safety practices, and professional habits needed to begin a career in electrical linework.

Your responsibilities include:

  • Teach Lineman Training Program courses with emphasis on lineworker safety, OSHA/NESC standards, pole climbing, and rescue techniques.
  • Provide classroom, lab, and hands-on instruction in electrical lineworker skills and practices.
  • Demonstrate safe use of lineworker tools, climbing equipment, personal protective equipment, and utility equipment.
  • Assess student performance through assignments and hands-on evaluations and maintain accurate records.
  • Mentor students on lineworker career paths and certifications while supporting industry partnerships that enhance training and employment opportunities.
  • Maintain updated course materials and ensure all classroom, lab, and climbing equipment meet safety and industry standards.
  • Engage in ongoing professional development and complete duties assigned by program or campus leadership.
  • Perform and complete other tasks as assigned by the Program Coordinator, Campus Director of Education, and/or Campus Executive Director.
  • Work flexible hours as required.

Electrical Lineworker Skills You'll Help Students Develop

Students in the Electrical Lineworker program receive technical and hands-on training in areas including:

  • Electrical and lineworker safety
  • OSHA and NESC standards
  • Utility pole climbing
  • Climbing gear inspection and proper PPE use
  • Pole-top rescue
  • Bucket rescue techniques
  • Electrical fundamentals
  • Grounding and circuit analysis
  • Aerial framing
  • Pole setting
  • Rigging
  • Trenching
  • Bucket truck operation
  • Digger derrick operation
  • Ladder and scaffold safety
  • CPR, First Aid, and Bloodborne Pathogen procedures

Graduates leave the program with practical skills designed to prepare them to safely support electrical distribution construction and maintenance and advance into additional technical training or apprenticeships.

Qualifications

Education
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Associate's Degree in Electrical Systems Technology or related field preferred.
Experience / Skills
  • Minimum three (3) years of field experience performing journeyman-level or equivalent lineman duties in power distribution, telecommunications, or related work.
  • Demonstrated expertise in linework theory and practice, with up-to-date knowledge of current standards.
  • Ability to climb utility poles using appropriate equipment and perform pole-top and bucket rescue techniques.
  • Strong knowledge of OSHA, NESC, and other applicable safety regulations.
  • Ability to teach a diverse student body in a compliance-oriented environment.
  • Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams); experience with campus Nexus is a plus.

Certificates, Licenses & Registrations

  • National Center for Construction Education and Research NCCER Instructor Certification Training Program (ICTP) Certification is required before instructors start teaching classes. The company will pay for certification.
  • OSHA 10-hour safety certification within 6 months of hire date.
  • CPR certification current or within 3 months of hire date.
  • Electrical Journeyman Lineman preferred.
  • Valid unrestricted driver's license with an insurable driving record required; Class B CDL minimum, with Class A preferred.

Physical Requirements

This is a hands-on Electrical Lineworker Instructor position that requires the ability to:

  • Sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb for extended periods.
  • Climb utility poles and structures using proper equipment.
  • Lift and move up to 120 pounds.
  • Maintain the visual acuity and balance necessary to work safely at heights.

Work Environment

Electrical Lineworker instruction is delivered in classrooms, labs, and outdoor training yards.

Instructors provide both classroom and hands-on training and may be exposed to outdoor elements, including extreme weather, noise, vibration, and environmental hazards.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation for this Journeyman Lineman / Electrical Lineworker Instructor position is up to $60 per hour, based on experience, qualifications, and other relevant factors.

Qualified new hires are also eligible for a $2,500 sign-on bonus.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • 401(k) and Matching: Competitive retirement savings plan.
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Coverage available on the first day of employment.
  • Life Insurance: Life insurance options for additional peace of mind.
  • Parental Leave: Support during important family transitions.
  • Paid Time Off: Paid time away from work to recharge.
  • Employee Assistance Program: Resources for personal and professional support.
  • Tuition Reimbursement: Financial support for continued education.

Bring Your Lineworker Experience to the Next Generation

Your experience as a lineman or lineworker can do more than build and maintain electrical distribution systems. It can help someone else build a career.

If you have the required field experience, strong technical knowledge, a commitment to lineworker safety, and the ability to teach and mentor others, consider bringing your experience from the field into the classroom and training yard.

Stay connected to the trade. Train future lineworkers. Build the next chapter of your career with Centura College.

Apply today for the Journeyman Lineman / Electrical Lineworker Instructor position.

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