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Senior Rigger Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

Operate crane to set customer's items per senior crane operator's instructions. CCO Certification ... Have a complete knowledge of crane and rigging signals. * Know the emergency response procedures ...

... senior-level leadership and overseeing the on-site execution of marine, heavy civil, and/or ... Advanced knowledge of marine operations such as crane operations, rigging, welding, and dredging ...

Senior Rigger information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$23.4K

$75.1K

$153K

How much do senior rigger jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior rigger in Charleston, SC is $75,134.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,800.00 and $96,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior rigger do?

A Senior Rigger is responsible for assembling, installing, and maintaining rigging systems used in lifting and moving heavy objects, often in industries like construction, entertainment, and offshore operations. They ensure safety by inspecting rigging equipment, calculating load weights, and following industry regulations. Senior Riggers also supervise junior riggers, collaborate with engineers and other teams, and troubleshoot rigging issues. Their expertise helps prevent accidents and ensures efficient lifting operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior rigger?

To thrive as a Senior Rigger, you need advanced knowledge of rigging principles, mechanical systems, and safety protocols, often backed by several years of hands-on experience in construction, entertainment, or offshore environments. Proficiency with rigging equipment, load calculation software, and certifications such as NCCCO or IRATA is commonly required. Leadership abilities, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing teams and collaborating with engineers or project managers. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and successful completion of complex lifting or installation projects.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a senior rigger?

As a Senior Rigger, your daily tasks include planning and overseeing rigging operations, inspecting equipment for safety and compliance, and supervising a team of riggers on site. You'll work closely with engineers and project managers to execute lifting or installation plans, often contributing to risk assessments and method statements. Coordination and clear communication are critical, as you may lead toolbox talks, provide on-the-job training, and adapt to shifting project requirements. This hands-on role is both physically demanding and highly collaborative, offering opportunities to develop leadership skills and advance to supervisory roles.

What is a senior rigger?

A senior rigger is a skilled professional responsible for planning, installing, and maintaining rigging systems used to lift and move heavy equipment or structures. They typically have extensive experience, knowledge of safety protocols, and may hold certifications such as NCCER or OSHA. Their role often involves supervising junior riggers and ensuring safe, efficient operations in construction, entertainment, or industrial settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rigger jobs in Charleston, SC?

The most popular types of Rigger jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Rigger jobs in Charleston, SC?

For Senior Rigger jobs in Charleston, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Rigger jobs in Charleston, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Rigger jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Senior Rigger jobs?

Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Senior Rigger job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Rigger job openings in Charleston, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,134 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Onsite Project Manager

Hanahan, SC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Manage STS crane projects including offload, erection, relocation, dismantling, refurbishment, and service

  • Serve as a point of contact for customers, terminals, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders

  • Maintain overall responsibility for project schedule, budget, scope, and deliverables


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

ZPMC USA is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead the execution of complex Ship-to-Shore (STS) crane projects across U.S. east coast and gulf ports terminals. This role is responsible for full lifecycle project delivery-from contract handoff through project completion-while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, schedule, and cost control.

The ideal candidate brings hands-on knowledge of STS cranes, rigging and heavy-lift operations, and a proven background managing technically demanding field projects in active marine or industrial environments. Travel is a core requirement of this position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Project Execution and Leadership

• Manage STS crane projects including offload, erection, relocation, dismantling, refurbishment, and service.

• Serve as a point of contact for customers, terminals, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders.

• Lead project kickoff meetings, coordination calls, and site execution planning.

• Maintain overall responsibility for project schedule, budget, scope, and deliverables.

Safety and Compliance

• Enforce ZPMC USA's safety culture

• Ensure site-specific safety plans (SSSP, IIPP, JSA) are developed, approved, and implemented.

• Coordinate with terminal safety teams, union labor, and third-party contractors.

• Exercise stop work authority when unsafe conditions exist.

Technical and Field Oversight

• Apply technical understanding of STS crane structures, machinery, electrical systems, and controls.

• Review and validate rigging plans, lift studies, transport methodologies, and execution sequencing.

• Oversee heavy lift operations including SPMTs, jacking systems, and ancillary cranes.

• Interface with engineering teams regarding drawings, methodologies, and field modifications.

Cost and Schedule Control

• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules and manpower plans.

• Track project costs, forecasts, and change orders.

• Identify project risks early and implement mitigation strategies.

• Manage subcontractors and vendors in accordance with contractual terms.

Commercial and Contractual Support

• Understand contract scope, assumptions, exclusions, and risk allocation.

• Support change management, claims documentation, and commercial discussions.

• Provide accurate reporting to senior management on overall project health and risk exposure.

Reporting and Communication

• Prepare and deliver regular progress reports, executive summaries, and close-out documentation.

• Maintain clear, professional communication with customers and internal leadership.

• Support business development efforts by providing technical input and lessons learned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 5 years of project management experience in heavy industrial, port, marine, or crane-related environments.

• Demonstrated experience working with Ship-to-Shore (STS) container cranes.

• Strong working knowledge of rigging and heavy lifting operations.

• Experience with crane erection, dismantling, relocation, and commissioning activities.

• Proven ability to manag;e field crews, subcontractors, and union labor.

• Strong organizational, leadership, and decision-making skills.

• Willingness and ability to travel extensively, including extended site assignments.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Engineering degree or equivalent technical background (Mechanical, Structural, or Electrical preferred).

• PMP or equivalent project management certification.

• Experience working directly with port authorities and major terminal operators.

• Familiarity with OSHA regulations and U.S. port and maritime safety standards.

• Experience managing large capital equipment projects with high-risk execution scopes.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Safety-first leadership mindset.

• Strong field execution and problem-solving capability.

• Commercial awareness and contract comprehension.

• Ability to operate independently in high-pressure environments.

• Clear, concise communicator with executive-level presence.

WHAT ZPMC USA OFFERS

• Opportunity to lead some of the largest and most complex crane projects in North America.

• High-visibility role with direct interaction with senior leadership.

• Competitive compensation commensurate with experience.

• Travel-based position with long-term growth potential within ZPMC USA.