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What's the salary outlook for Rigger and is it growing?

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Tech & EngineeringStable

Rigger

Operational-level

Also known as: Acrobatic Rigger, Boat Rigger, Certified Rigger, Crane Rigger

Tech & EngineeringBachelor's Degree

Job Description

As a Rigger, you set up or repair complex systems of ropes, cables, and hoists to safely lift and move heavy materials on construction sites, in factories, logging yards, or even for entertainment events. You'll work outdoors in various weather, often wearing safety gear like hard hats, glasses, and gloves, collaborating closely with your team. This job is a good fit if you're skilled at reading plans, listening carefully, thinking critically, and can work under time pressure in a hands-on environment.
RiggingIndustrial OperationsHeavy Equipment OperationsMaritime OperationsEntertainment ProductionEngineeringConstructionSafety ManagementTechnicalAutomotive

A Day in the Life

The alarm blares before dawn. You pull on heavy work pants and a thermal shirt, knowing the chill of early morning at the downtown construction site will be biting. Arriving, you grab your hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots from your locker. The morning briefing is quick but crucial, reviewing the `rigging plans` for today’s main lift: a massive pre-fabricated concrete section. You discuss load weights, lift points, and fall zones with your foreman and the crane operator.

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

+3.9%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

1,700

per year (US)

Jobs today

22,500

in 2025 → 23,400 (2035)

Typical entry education

High school diploma or equivalent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook.

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
Moderate
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
High
Time spent sitting
Low
Working outdoors
High
Indoor, climate-controlled
Moderate
Dealing with customers
Moderate
Level of competition
High

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Stable Job Market

This career offers a stable outlook, with about 1,700 job openings expected each year through 2035, showing steady demand for skilled riggers. The median annual wage for Riggers is about $62,640. With experience, you can advance into roles like a Lead Rigger, taking on more responsibility and overseeing teams.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Construction Laborer
  • Apprentice Rigger

Where it can lead

  • Lead Rigger
  • Rigging Supervisor
  • Construction Manager

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will likely automate many repetitive and foundational rigging tasks, such as initial skinning, weight painting, and basic control setup, significantly accelerating the workflow. This shift will elevate the rigger's role to focus more on refining AI-generated rigs, troubleshooting complex technical challenges, and developing highly specialized, custom solutions that demand nuanced artistic and technical expertise.