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Rigging Lead Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rigging Dept Craft Manager

Boston, MA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Boston Shipyard is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Rigging Manager to lead and oversee all aspects of rigging operations. This role is critical to ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant ...

Rigger Foreman

Lebanon, IN

$23 - $29.75/hr

Supervise and lead rigging crews on heavy industrial projects * Assign daily work and coordinate manpower and equipment * Conduct pre-task planning and ensure crews understand lift plans and ...

Rigger Foreman

Lebanon, IN

$23 - $29.75/hr

Supervise and lead rigging crews on heavy industrial projects * Assign daily work and coordinate manpower and equipment * Conduct pre-task planning and ensure crews understand lift plans and ...

Rigger General Foreman

Lebanon, IN · On-site

$23 - $29.75/hr

Supervise and lead rigging crews on heavy industrial projects * Assign daily work and coordinate manpower and equipment * Conduct pre-task planning and ensure crews understand lift plans and ...

$18.50 - $24/hr

As a Lead Rigger, you will take ownership of the character rigging pipeline for an ambitious game ... Oversee rigging, deformation systems, simulations, and technical quality for characters, creatures ...

Industrial Field Technician

Baltimore, MD

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Fabrication and Rigging * Lead fabrication activities including structural and pipe welding * Perform metal fabrication tasks including cutting, grinding, fitting, and assembly of custom components ...

We are looking for a Rigging & Crane Operator Team Lead (Level I) for SieSaw skid assembly team. This position will be based in Knightdale, NC. Shift Hours : 7:00 am - 3:30 pm Pay Range: $26.00-$31 ...

Industrial Field Technician

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Fabrication and Rigging * Lead fabrication activities including structural and pipe welding * Perform metal fabrication tasks including cutting, grinding, fitting, and assembly of custom components ...

Rigging Installer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Working under the direction of experienced Lead Installers and Project Managers, this role assists with installation, assembly, and testing of rigging systems while maintaining a safe and organized ...

Lead by example by encouraging open communication on safety concerns and fostering accountability ... ETCP Arena Rigging certification desired, Certified on CM hoist desired. Certificate of completion ...

Containment/Rigging

Hampton, VA

$23.75 - $30.75/hr

Main is hiring for full-time Scaffold Lead Builders. No relocation or per diem available. Main is searching for an employee experienced in working with containment and rigging in various shipyard ...

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Rigging Lead information

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How much do rigging lead jobs pay per month?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average monthly pay for rigging lead in the United States is $2,904.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,333.33 and $3,166.67 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Rigging Lead, you need strong expertise in character and mechanical rigging, anatomy, and deformation, typically supported by a degree in animation, computer graphics, or related fields. Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as Autodesk Maya, scripting languages like Python, and experience with asset management systems are crucial. Leadership, problem-solving, and clear communication are vital soft skills for guiding teams and collaborating with animators and modelers. These abilities ensure efficient production workflows, high-quality assets, and effective teamwork in demanding visual effects or animation projects.

What is the difference between Rigging Lead vs Rigging Supervisor?

AspectRigging LeadRigging Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees rigging teams, ensures technical accuracy, and manages daily rigging tasksManages multiple rigging teams, sets project goals, and oversees overall rigging operations
CredentialsExperience in rigging, technical skills, certifications in rigging or related fieldsSimilar credentials, often with additional leadership or supervisory certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site, in film, TV, or stage productions, or in industrial settingsOn-site or office-based, overseeing multiple projects or teams in similar industries

The main difference is that a Rigging Lead focuses on direct technical oversight and daily rigging tasks, while a Rigging Supervisor manages multiple teams and broader project goals. Both roles require similar technical credentials, but the Supervisor has a higher-level management scope.

What are Rigging Leads?

Rigging Leads are specialized professionals in the animation, visual effects, or gaming industries responsible for overseeing the creation and implementation of rigs—digital skeletons and controls that allow 3D models to move in realistic ways. They lead a team of rigging artists, collaborate with animators and modelers, and ensure that character and object rigs are efficient, flexible, and meet the creative needs of a project. Rigging Leads also solve technical challenges, establish best practices, and may contribute to tool development or workflow improvements.

What are some common challenges faced by a Rigging Lead when overseeing a team on large animation or VFX projects?

As a Rigging Lead, one of the main challenges is ensuring that all character and prop rigs are both technically robust and artist-friendly, especially when managing a diverse team with varying experience levels. Balancing the demands of animators for flexibility and the technical constraints of the pipeline can require creative problem-solving. Additionally, coordinating with other departments, such as modeling and animation, to address feedback and implement new features under tight deadlines is a frequent aspect of the role. Effective communication and leadership are key to maintaining high-quality results across the team.
More about Rigging Lead jobs
Infographic showing various Rigging Lead job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,858 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Salary Range:
Job Title: Rigging Manager
Location: Boston Shipyard, Boston, MA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Compensation: Competitive salary, based on experience
________________________________________
Position Summary:
The Boston Shipyard is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Rigging Manager to lead and oversee all aspects of rigging operations. This role is critical to ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant rigging activities while fostering an environment of teamwork and professionalism. As the Rigging Manager, you will play a vital role in maintaining organizational excellence, demonstrating strong leadership, and thriving in outdoor and physically demanding conditions.
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Key Responsibilities:
• Leadership and Team Management:
o Supervise, train, and mentor rigging staff to maintain high productivity and safety standards.
o Foster a collaborative and efficient work environment through clear communication and team leadership.
o Delegate tasks effectively to ensure optimal workflow and resource utilization.
• Operational Oversight:
o Develop and implement comprehensive plans for rigging projects, including resource allocation, scheduling, and personnel management.
o Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of rigging equipment to ensure peak performance and safety.
o Coordinate effectively across departments to align rigging operations with broader shipyard objectives.
• Safety and Compliance:
o Ensure all operations adhere to OSHA standards, Massachusetts labor laws, and shipyard-specific safety protocols.
o Maintain detailed records for compliance, including budgets, timelines, and safety documentation.
• Client and Stakeholder Coordination:
o Collaborate with clients, project managers, and other stakeholders to ensure project specifications and deadlines are met.
o Respond promptly to emergencies and resolve issues to minimize downtime and maintain safety.
• Financial Management:
o Monitor and manage project budgets to align with financial goals and organizational objectives.
o Provide cost-effective solutions while maintaining quality and safety.
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Qualifications:
• Valid rigging license (required).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in rigging operations, with at least 2 years in a managerial or leadership role.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Comprehensive knowledge of rigging techniques, equipment, and safety practices.
• Proven experience in budget management and achieving financial goals.
• Strong clerical skills and attention to detail for maintaining accurate records and documentation.
• Strong coordination skills with the ability to align multiple teams and resources effectively.
• Familiarity with OSHA regulations, Massachusetts labor laws, and maritime/shipyard safety standards.
• Sufficient knowledge of shipyard operations and industry practices.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Physical ability to work in demanding outdoor conditions, including lifting up to 50 pounds, working at heights, and performing tasks in varying weather conditions.
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Benefits:
• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Comprehensive health and dental insurance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Retirement plan options.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
________________________________________
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit their resume, a cover letter detailing relevant experience, and proof of licensure to [email address]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
________________________________________
Equal Opportunity Employer:
The Boston Shipyard is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.