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Ship Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Venture Dynamics Enterprises, Inc.

Rigger

Portsmouth, VA · 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 ...

Tidewater Staffing

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 ...

Tidewater Staffing

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 ...

HII

RIGGER

Pascagoula, MS

$24 - $31/hr

Req ID: 48376 Team: 19 Rigging Entity ... Ingalls Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this Position: No Full-Time Shift: 1st Relocation:

General Dynamics Electric Boat

Rigger - Skilled

Groton, CT · On-site

$33.19 - $43.20/hr

Responsible for lifting, moving and positioning ships and shipyard machinery, equipment, structural ... Previous rigging experience * High School Diploma or GED * Successful completion of the Eastern CT ...

Orbis

Weight Handlers Rigger Supervisor

New Hampshire, OH

$21.50 - $27.75/hr

Navy ships in the Trade Skill they are supervising and On-Site Supervisors must reflect the same (3 ... Rigger Typical Trade Task a. Plan, lay out, assemble, repair and install complex weight handling ...

General Dynamics Electric Boat

Rigger - Skilled

Groton, CT

$33.19 - $43.20/hr

Responsible for lifting, moving and positioning ships and shipyard machinery, equipment, structural ... Previous rigging experience * High School Diploma or GED * Successful completion of the Eastern CT ...

NSC STAFFING

Rigger Journeyperson-2103

Norfolk, VA

$26 - $28/hr

Fabricate, install, and repair rigging, including weight-handling gear aboard ships. * Hoisting and Positioning : Select and attach appropriate rigging gear to hoisting machinery, braces, and ...

Trade Team

Be Seen First

Riggers

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Rigger Knowledge Riggers should have experience and previous work history to support the rate of a Journeyman Rigger. * Rig materials to be moved onto ship or around the ship yard * Convey ...

NSC STAFFING

Rigger Journeyman I - V

San Diego, CA

$25.37 - $45.46/hr

Fabricate, install, and repair rigging, including weight-handling gear aboard ships. * Hoisting and Positioning : Select and attach appropriate rigging gear to hoisting machinery, braces, and ...

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Ship Rigger information

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$14

$26

$36

How much do ship rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 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.

How much are Riggers paid?

Riggers typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the rigging tasks. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized tools may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or maritime environments.

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 rigger jobs are often in specialized industries such as oil and gas, offshore drilling, or large-scale construction projects, where riggers with advanced skills, certifications, and experience can earn higher wages. Supervisory or lead riggers, especially those with certifications like NCCCO or NCCER, tend to command the highest salaries in the field.

What is the salary of rigger in shipping?

Ship riggers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the rigging tasks. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized knowledge can earn higher wages, especially when working overtime or on large projects.

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 adjusting the rigging systems that support and control the ship's sails, masts, and other equipment. They work with ropes, cables, pulleys, and hoists, often using specialized tools and safety gear, and must follow safety protocols in a maritime environment. Rigging skills are essential for ensuring the stability and proper functioning of the ship's structural and operational components.
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Ship Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Rigger job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.

Rigger

Venture Dynamics Enterprises, Inc.

Portsmouth, VA • On-site

$25 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 4 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

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