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Ship Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Install, remove, and relocate shipboard machinery, valves, pumps, and structural components. * Conduct pre-use inspections of rigging equipment and maintain rigging gear in safe working condition.

Weight Handlers Rigger Supervisor

Concord, NH · On-site

$24.25 - $31.25/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 ...

Journeyman Rigger

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Install, remove, and relocate shipboard machinery, valves, pumps, and structural components. * Conduct pre-use inspections of rigging equipment and maintain rigging gear in safe working condition.

Weight Handlers Rigger Supervisor

Concord, NH

$24.25 - $31.25/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 ...

Weight Handlers Rigger Supervisor

New Hampshire, OH · On-site

$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 ...

$74K - $85K/yr

Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes Full-Time Shift: Multiple ... The Role Riggers provide the kinetic energy of the shipbuilding business. They operate the vast ...

$74K - $85K/yr

Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes Full-Time Shift: Multiple ... The Role Riggers provide the kinetic energy of the shipbuilding business. They operate the vast ...

Rigger

Vallejo, CA

$40 - $52/hr

This Rigging job will be working on board ships as well as the from the entire facility. Qualified candidates please apply now! Requirements * Align, level and anchor machinery. * Attach loads to ...

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 ...

MECH TECH M 3 (RIGGER)

Goose Creek, SC · On-site

$21.75 - $28.25/hr

Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes Full-Time Shift: Multiple ... The Role Riggers are highly specialized in moving jobs that cannot be accomplished by ordinary ...

Showing results 21-40

Ship Rigger information

See salary details

$14

$26

$36

How much do ship rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 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 is a ship rigger?

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

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 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 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 does a ship rigger do on a ship?

A ship rigger is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing the rigging, ropes, and lifting equipment on ships. They ensure that all rigging systems are secure and functioning properly, often working with cranes, pulleys, and safety gear in a maritime environment. Rigging skills and knowledge of safety protocols are essential for this role.
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Infographic showing various Ship Rigger job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.

Journeyman Rigger

Norfolk, VA

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Shipyard Rigger

**LEAD Staffing **

Location: Hampton Roads, VA

Schedule: Full-Time | Contract | 40 hours per week (Overtime as required)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Shipyard Rigger to support ship repair, modernization, and new construction projects in Hampton Roads, VA. This role involves safely moving, lifting, positioning, and securing heavy equipment, machinery, and structural components aboard vessels and within shipyard facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute rigging operations involving heavy equipment, machinery, and shipboard components.

• Inspect and utilize rigging gear including chain falls, come-alongs, wire rope, slings, shackles, and lifting devices.

• Interpret lift plans, rigging diagrams, and technical drawings.

• Safely move materials and equipment using cranes, forklifts, and other lifting equipment.

• Calculate load weights, center of gravity, and proper rigging configurations.

• Install, remove, and relocate shipboard machinery, valves, pumps, and structural components.

• Conduct pre-use inspections of rigging equipment and maintain rigging gear in safe working condition.

• Communicate effectively with crane operators, supervisors, and fellow trades personnel during lifting operations.

• Follow all shipyard safety procedures, OSHA regulations, and quality standards.

• Maintain a clean and organized work area.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of rigging experience in a shipyard, marine, industrial, or heavy construction environment.

• Knowledge of safe rigging practices, load calculations, and lifting procedures.

• Ability to read and interpret rigging drawings, lift plans, and technical documentation.

• Experience working around cranes and heavy lifting equipment.

• Familiarity with hand signals and radio communication for crane operations.

• High school diploma or GED required.

• NCCCO Rigger Certification or equivalent preferred.

• Must be willing to undergo background check and drug screening.

• Willingness to work overtime, weekends, and extended schedules as required.

• Clean driving record required.

Work Environment

• Shipyard and industrial settings

• Exposure to noise, heat, cold, heights, confined spaces, and marine/industrial hazards

• Frequent lifting, climbing, and physical labor required

• PPE required at all times

Job-Specific Interview Questions

  1. Describe your rigging experience in a shipyard or industrial environment.
  2. What types of rigging equipment are you most experienced using?
  3. How do you determine the proper sling configuration for a lift?
  4. Explain how you calculate load weight and center of gravity.
  5. Describe a complex lift you successfully completed and the planning involved.
  6. What steps do you take to inspect rigging gear before use?
  7. How do you communicate with crane operators during lifting operations?
  8. What safety hazards are most common during rigging operations, and how do you mitigate them?
  9. Have you worked with critical lifts or lifts in confined spaces? Please explain.
  10. How do you handle situations where a lift plan does not match field conditions?

Why Work With LEAD Staffing

• Competitive pay based on experience

• Paid Sick Leave

• Holiday Pay (eligible after qualifying hours worked)

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance options

• Referral Bonus Program – earn a bonus for referring qualified candidates

• Consistent shipyard work with overtime opportunities

• Opportunity to work on complex naval and industrial projects

• Strong safety-first work culture

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