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Ship Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hiring Marine Riggers

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $33/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 ...

Rigger

North Kingstown, RI

$23.25 - $30/hr

This position also requires work to be performed on ships, barges as well as indoors and outdoors ... Rigging or related lifting & handling experience or training * CDL license * Experience in Mobile ...

Rigger

North Kingstown, RI · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

This position also requires work to be performed on ships, barges as well as indoors and outdoors ... Rigging or related lifting & handling experience or training * CDL license * Experience in Mobile ...

Rigger

North Kingstown, RI · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

This position also requires work to be performed on ships, barges as well as indoors and outdoors ... Rigging or related lifting & handling experience or training * CDL license * Experience in Mobile ...

Rigger

North Kingstown, RI

$23.25 - $30/hr

This position also requires work to be performed on ships, barges as well as indoors and outdoors ... Rigging or related lifting & handling experience or training * CDL license * Experience in Mobile ...

Shipyard Rigger

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Handle lifting, rigging, and movement of heavy shipboard equipment and materials. Responsibilities : * Set up rigging and lifting devices for equipment moves. * Operate cranes, hoists, and rigging ...

Rigger - Nationwide

Duncan, SC · On-site

$22.25 - $28.50/hr

Position Summary Riggers will participate in all indoor & outdoor lifting, handling and moving of ... ships, barges as well as indoors and outdoors · Candidates will be required to work at heights ...

Shipyard Rigger

Portsmouth, VA

$23.25 - $30/hr

Handle lifting, rigging, and movement of heavy shipboard equipment and materials. Responsibilities : * Set up rigging and lifting devices for equipment moves. * Operate cranes, hoists, and rigging ...

RIGGER

Jamul, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $30.75/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

Philadelphia, PA

$24.25 - $31.25/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

RIGGER

Spring Valley, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $31.50/hr

Summary You will serve as a RIGGER in the DEPARTMENT OF NAVY to include work sites of Portsmouth ... You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing ...

Rigger - Nationwide

Duncan, SC · On-site

$22.25 - $28.50/hr

Position Summary Riggers will participate in all indoor & outdoor lifting, handling and moving of ... ships, barges as well as indoors and outdoors • Candidates will be required to work at heights ...

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Ship Rigger information

See salary details

$14

$26

$36

How much do ship rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.
Overhead Crane Rigger

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

This position is responsible for safely rigging, lifting, moving, and positioning heavy loads using overhead cranes and rigging equipment in a shipyard environment. The Overhead Crane Rigger plays a critical role in supporting ship repair, dry dock operations, and marine construction projects involving structural components, propulsion systems, and heavy equipment.

Responsibilities include:

  • Safely rig, lift, and move heavy loads using overhead cranes and associated rigging equipment.
  • Demonstrate expertise in overhead crane operations and communication with crane operators.
  • Inspect, select, and properly use rigging gear including slings, straps, shackles, chain falls, and related equipment.
  • Rig and handle large and complex loads safely in accordance with load charts, weight limits, and shipyard procedures.
  • Perform rigging operations for underwater hull components including rudders, propellers, shafts, and fin stabilizers.
  • Support installation and removal of shipboard equipment and heavy structural components.
  • Understand ship structure, staging construction, mooring systems, and marine support equipment.
  • Assist in positioning loads in confined, elevated, or restricted-access shipyard areas.
  • Ensure all rigging activities are performed in compliance with safety regulations and lift plans.
  • Communicate clearly with crane operators, supervisors, and team members during lifting operations.
  • Work around dry docks, vessels, shipyard cranes, and heavy industrial environments.
  • Perform pre-lift inspections and verify rigging configurations prior to execution.
  • Follow all safety procedures including fall protection, PPE requirements, and lift safety protocols.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 5–7 years of rigging experience required.
  • No less than 5 years of experience for 2nd Class Rigger level.
  • Must have verified overhead crane operation and rigging experience
  • Strong knowledge of chain falls, straps, slings, and load handling techniques.
  • Ability to rig and move large and complex loads safely and efficiently.
  • Knowledge of ship structures, staging, crane capacities, and shipyard operations required.
  • Experience with underwater hull rigging (rudders, propellers, shafts, fin stabilizers) strongly preferred.
  • Ability to work at heights and climb ladders, staging, and ship structures without fear of elevation.
  • Must be able to pass a criminal background check.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen due to access requirements at secure facilities.
  • Previous shipyard experience strongly preferred.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull heavy rigging equipment and components (up to 50+ lbs).
  • Ability to climb ladders, scaffolding, and work at elevated heights.
  • Ability to stand, kneel, bend, and work in physically demanding environments for extended periods.
  • Must be able to work aboard vessels, dry docks, and shipyard structures.
  • Must wear required PPE including but not limited to hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toe boots, and fall protection gear when required.
  • Ability to work in outdoor and industrial environments under varying weather conditions.

Work Schedule & Hours:

  • Full-time position averaging 40–56 hours per week, including weekends as required.
  • Overtime and extended hours may be required based on project needs.
  • Reliability and flexibility are essential.

Benefits:

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Long-term shipyard employment opportunities
  • Safety-focused work environment
  • Training and advancement potential within rigging operations

Ability to Commute:

  • Norfolk, VA

Work Location:

In person

Titan Talent Development is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.