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Ship Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rigger

Portsmouth, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $29/hr

Shipboard rigging to include removal of the machinery and equipment on and off the ship and through narrow openings utilizing jacks, chain falls, come-alongs and rollers. Shipboard machinery and ...

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Suffolk, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Chesapeake, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Chesapeake, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Carrollton, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA

$23.25 - $30/hr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Chesapeake, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA

$23.25 - $30/hr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Hampton, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

Rigger

Hampton, VA

$38K - $56K/yr

Installs or repairs ships' rigging such as mast on antenna wires, small boat handling gear, shipboard cranes, winches, windless, replenishment and weight handling equipment. * Move barges and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Ship Rigger information

See salary details

$14

$26

$36

How much do ship rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship rigger 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 are ship riggers?

Ship riggers are skilled workers responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing the rigging on ships, such as ropes, cables, and chains that support masts, sails, and other equipment. They ensure that all rigging is safe and functional, which is crucial for the operation and safety of a vessel. Ship riggers may work on both modern and traditional ships, and sometimes assist with loading cargo or moving heavy equipment using hoists and cranes. Their work requires knowledge of knots, splicing, and the mechanical aspects of rigging systems.

What is the difference between Ship Rigger vs Crane Operator?

AspectShip RiggerCrane Operator
CertificationsRigger certification, OSHA safety trainingCrane operator license, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentShipyards, docks, offshore vesselsConstruction sites, ports, industrial settings
Job FocusAssembling, maintaining, and operating rigging equipment for shipsOperating cranes to lift and move heavy materials
Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, offshoreConstruction, logistics, shipping

Both Ship Riggers and Crane Operators work in environments involving heavy lifting and require safety certifications. However, Ship Riggers focus on rigging setup and maintenance for ships and offshore structures, while Crane Operators specialize in operating cranes to move materials in various industries. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Ship Rigger during vessel maintenance and repair projects?

Ship Riggers often encounter challenges such as working in confined or elevated spaces, handling heavy and cumbersome rigging equipment, and adapting to changing weather conditions. Safety is a major concern, as the work involves lifting and securing large components using ropes, cables, and pulleys, often at significant heights. Close coordination with other crew members and departments is essential to ensure efficient workflow and to address unexpected issues that may arise during maintenance or repairs.

What is the highest paying Rigger job?

The highest paying rigging jobs are often in specialized sectors such as industrial, theatrical, or offshore rigging, with offshore oil riggers typically earning the most due to the demanding environment and hazardous conditions. These roles often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and the ability to operate complex lifting equipment, leading to higher wages compared to standard rigging positions.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Ship riggers typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily rates are more common in specialized fields like certain high-level consultants, executive contractors, or skilled trades such as offshore drilling or high-risk construction projects. These roles often require extensive experience, certifications, and working in demanding environments, with pay rates varying based on project scope and location.

Do riggers get paid well?

Ship riggers typically earn competitive wages that vary based on experience, location, and industry demand. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized knowledge in crane or heavy lifting operations tend to earn higher pay. Overall, the compensation for riggers is generally considered good within the construction and maritime sectors.

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

To thrive as a Ship Rigger, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of rigging techniques, and physical fitness, often supported by vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with hoisting equipment, hand and power tools, and adherence to safety regulations are essential, with certifications like OSHA maritime safety being advantageous. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are key soft skills that help ensure safe and efficient operations. These abilities are critical for maintaining vessel safety, minimizing accidents, and supporting smooth maritime operations.

What does a Rigger do on a ship?

A ship rigger is responsible for installing, maintaining, and operating the rigging systems that support and move cargo, equipment, and sails on ships. They work with ropes, cables, pulleys, and hoists, often using tools like winches and cranes, and must follow safety protocols in a maritime environment. Rigging skills are essential for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of ship loading, unloading, and handling procedures.
More about Ship Rigger jobs
What cities are hiring for Ship Rigger jobs? Cities with the most Ship Rigger job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ship Rigger jobs? The most popular types of Ship Rigger jobs are:
What states have the most Ship Rigger jobs? States with the most job openings for Ship Rigger jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ship Rigger jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Rigger jobs are:
Infographic showing various Ship Rigger job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 2% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 26% Contract, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.

$25 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

We are seeking skilled Shipyard Riggers to join our team at Venture Dynamics. The ideal candidate will have experience in various rigging techniques and equipment operation. Riggers will need to have OSHA Rigging and Crane Signalman Certifications in hand prior to starting.
Responsibilities:
- Utilize rigging equipment to move heavy materials safely and efficiently
- Execute rigging plans to lift, move, and position heavy objects
Riggers are responsible for lifting, moving and positioning machinery, equipment, structural parts, and other heavy loads aboard ship and in the shops. Shipboard rigging to include removal of the machinery and equipment on and off the ship and through narrow openings utilizing jacks, chain falls, come-alongs and rollers. Shipboard machinery and equipment to include but not limited to: pumps, valves, motors, electronic equipment, etc. Riggers are also responsible for selecting rigging gear based on weight and distribution of load, availability of hoisting machinery, and the presence of obstacles which might interfere with maneuverability of incorrectly rigged hoisting gear. May signal workers operating cranes or other equipment to move load. Individuals will also be required to inspect their own rigging gear according to safety rules and OSHA standards. Will perform additional related tasks as assigned by Supervisor, some of which may become essential to the position.
Requirements:
- Strong mechanical knowledge for effective rigging
- Ability to lift heavy loads and work in physically demanding environments
-Must pass a drug screen prior to work.
-Must pass Background checks to access bases and yards in the Norfolk, VA region
-Requires applicants to have DBIDS in Hand with current base access capability.
-Must have Rigger 1 and Crane Signalman Certifications.
Join our team as a Rigger and contribute your expertise to our dynamic work environment.
Job Types: Full-time, Contract
Pay: $25.00 - $29.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 - 50 per week
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Referral program

Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Overtime
  • Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:
  • Norfolk, VA (Required)

Work Location: In person