FAQ
Rigger FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a rigger.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a rigger: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about riggers
Do riggers need certification?
NCCCO certification is common and often required.
Is the job growing?
BLS projects about average growth.
Is it dangerous?
It’s high-stakes, which is why planning matters.
How much does a rigger make?
The median annual wage for riggers was $62,640 ($30.12 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $40,680 and the highest 10% earned more than $97,850.
How long does it take to become a rigger?
Most people need about Months of training of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a rigger?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is rigger a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +3.9% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 1,700 openings each year. Upsides include strong pay; a common challenge is that high stakes.
What skills does a rigger need?
Key technical skills include load calculation, sling angles, hardware selection, and signaling. Employers also value precision, communication, and calm.
What certifications are available for riggers?
Common credentials include NCCCO Rigger Level I and II, NCCCO Signalperson, OSHA 10, and Ironworkers or millwright apprenticeship. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Rigger fit quiz, compare with Crane Operator, or explore Rigger training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9096 (Riggers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Riggers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.