Rigger Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties & Sample Template)

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If you’ve Googled “Rigger job description,” you’ve probably seen the same tired format over and over again—bullet points, jargon, and vague statements about “responsibilities” and “requirements.”

The problem?
 Most of these posts aren’t written to attract skilled riggers—they’re written to tick boxes. They fail to capture the urgency, precision, and safety-first mindset that great riggers bring to the job. And because of that, they miss out on the best talent.

But here’s the truth: top riggers don’t apply to just any job. They want to know exactly what kind of projects they’ll work on, the equipment they’ll handle, the safety standards you uphold, and the crew they’ll be part of.

So if your job description still looks like a generic copy-paste from an HR manual, you’re losing the very people you’re hoping to hire. The good news? You don’t need to be a copywriter to fix it—you just need the right structure and the right mindset.

📌 Before we dive in: If you haven’t already, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ — it explains why most job ads fail to convert quality applicants and how to make yours stand out.

Smart Hiring Starts Here

WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results

What A Rigger Actually Does - Their Roles Explained

A rigger is the person who makes sure heavy equipment, machinery, or materials are lifted, moved, and secured safely on construction sites, stages, ships, or industrial facilities. Think of them as the bridge between raw power and precision—they combine technical know-how, physical skill, and strict attention to safety.

Rigging isn’t just about tying knots or operating cranes. A rigger:

  • Plans lifts and moves based on weight, load, and equipment limits.

  • Inspects gear and ensures it meets safety standards.

  • Works closely with crane operators, engineers, and team members to execute lifts flawlessly.

  • Troubleshoots problems on the fly while keeping everyone safe.

The bottom line: riggers are essential for keeping projects safe, efficient, and on schedule. A skilled rigger doesn’t just “follow orders”—they prevent accidents, protect expensive equipment, and make complicated lifts look effortless.

Two Great Rigger Job Description Templates

We’ll provide two tailored job description options:

1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.

2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.

Experienced Rigger – Job Description (Fictional Company: Apex Industrial Solutions)

Job Title: Experienced Rigger
 Location: Houston, TX
 Job Type: Full-time
 Salary: $65,000 – $80,000 per year, depending on experience

🎥 Meet the Team:
 Before diving in, check out this quick video from our crew at Apex Industrial Solutions. See why our team loves what they do, the culture we’ve built, and how safety and teamwork come first. [Insert Loom/Video Link Here]

About Us:
 At Apex Industrial Solutions, we specialize in industrial lifting, heavy construction, and custom installations. Our team thrives on precision, safety, and collaboration, ensuring every project is completed on time and without incident. We value expertise, curiosity, and a commitment to doing things right the first time.

What You’ll Do:

  • Plan and execute complex lifts with cranes and rigging equipment.

  • Inspect rigging gear daily and maintain compliance with safety standards.

  • Collaborate with engineers, crane operators, and project leads to execute tasks efficiently.

  • Troubleshoot lift challenges on-site to prevent delays and accidents.

  • Mentor junior riggers and help grow the team’s skill set.

What We’re Looking For:

  • Proven experience as a rigger in construction, industrial, or maritime settings.

  • Certification in rigging or related safety credentials preferred.

  • Strong knowledge of load charts, rigging equipment, and OSHA regulations.

  • Excellent communication skills and a team-first attitude.

  • Ability to lift heavy equipment and work in physically demanding environments.

Perks & Benefits:

  • Competitive salary with performance bonuses.

  • Health, dental, and vision coverage.

  • Paid time off and flexible scheduling.

  • Opportunities for professional certification and career advancement.

Our Application Process:
 We like to keep things simple, fair, and transparent:

  1. Submit Your Application via WorkScreen – Complete a short application form and answer a few skill-based questions.

  2. Skill Assessment – Our system evaluates your practical knowledge and ranks candidates on a performance-based leaderboard.

  3. Interview – Top candidates will be invited to a short video interview with our team.

  4. Final Decision & Offer – We make our offer promptly and welcome you aboard!

How to Apply:
 Click the “Apply Now” button, complete your WorkScreen assessment, and show us your skills. Don’t worry—we focus on real-world ability, not just a resume.

Entry-Level / Trainee Rigger – Job Description (Apex Industrial Solutions)

Job Title: Entry-Level / Trainee Rigger
 Location: Houston, TX
 Job Type: Full-time
 Salary: $40,000 – $50,000 per year, depending on experience

🎥 Meet the Team:
 Curious about what it’s like to work at Apex? Check out this short video from our crew. You’ll see how we mentor new team members, tackle challenging projects, and maintain a culture of safety, learning, and collaboration. [Insert Loom/Video Link Here]

About Us:
 Apex Industrial Solutions is all about precision, safety, and teamwork. From heavy construction to industrial lifting, we make complex projects happen on schedule. We’re looking for motivated individuals who are eager to learn, grow their skills, and become integral members of our rigging team.

What You’ll Do:

  • Assist senior riggers with setting up equipment and preparing lifts.

  • Learn to inspect and maintain rigging gear under supervision.

  • Support crane operators and project teams on-site.

  • Follow safety protocols and report any concerns immediately.

  • Complete on-the-job training and certification programs to advance your skills.

What We’re Looking For:

  • No prior rigging experience required, but mechanical aptitude and a willingness to learn are a must.

  • Ability to follow instructions carefully and work in a team environment.

  • Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to safety.

  • Physical fitness to handle lifting, climbing, and standing for extended periods.

  • Positive attitude and curiosity to grow into a fully certified rigger.

Perks & Benefits:

  • Competitive starting salary with performance growth opportunities.

  • Paid training and certification programs.

  • Health, dental, and vision coverage.

  • Paid time off and flexible schedules.

  • Mentorship from experienced riggers to accelerate your career.

Our Application Process:
 We keep it straightforward and fair:

  1. Submit Your Application via WorkScreen – Fill out the application and complete a short skills and aptitude assessment.

  2. Skill Evaluation – WorkScreen scores applicants based on real-world abilities, helping us identify candidates with potential.

  3. Interview – Selected candidates will have a video chat with our team to get to know you and answer your questions.

  4. Offer & Onboarding – If selected, you’ll join our team with proper training and support to grow your career.

How to Apply:
 Hit “Apply Now,” complete the WorkScreen assessment, and show us your curiosity and potential. We focus on real-world skills and a willingness to learn—not just experience.

Don’t let bad hires slow you down.

WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free. 

Breakdown of Why These Rigger Job Posts Work

Creating a strong job post isn’t just about listing duties—it’s about connecting with candidates, being clear, and making the application process smooth. Here’s why our example rigger posts hit the mark:

  1. Clear, Specific Titles
  • “Entry-Level / Trainee Rigger” and “Experienced Rigger” immediately tell candidates what level of experience we’re seeking.

  • Avoids ambiguity—candidates know if they should apply or not.

  1. Warm Intros with Context
  • The video from the team gives a real human connection. Candidates can see the culture, meet future teammates virtually, and feel more confident about applying.

  • Intro paragraphs describe the role in plain language, so applicants understand what the job really entails.

  1. Transparent Salary & Perks
  • Salary ranges are upfront. Candidates know what to expect, which saves time for both sides.

  • Listing benefits, training programs, and mentorship highlights investment in employees.

  1. Respectful Application Process
  • Explaining how WorkScreen is used makes the process clear and fair.

  • Candidates understand exactly what steps they’ll go through and how they’re evaluated—reducing anxiety and drop-offs.

  1. Human Tone that Connects
  • Conversational wording (“Curious about what it’s like to work at Apex?”) makes the post feel personal.

  • Emphasizes learning, growth, and mentorship rather than just tasks—appealing to motivated, ambitious candidates.

Example of a Bad Rigger Job Description (And Why It Falls Short)

Job Title: Rigger
 Location: Houston, TX
 Job Type: Full-time

Job Summary:
 We are seeking a rigger to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for lifting and moving materials. Must have good communication skills and work well with others.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate rigging equipment.

  • Follow safety procedures.

  • Work with team members.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma.

  • Experience preferred.

How to Apply:
 Send your CV to hr@company.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

❌ Why This Post Fails

  1. Generic Job Title
  • “Rigger” says what the role is, but not the level (entry vs. experienced) or the type of projects. Skilled candidates skip over vague listings.

  1. Cold, Minimal Introduction
  • The summary tells nothing about the company, the work environment, or the impact of the role. There’s no reason for a candidate to feel excited or motivated to apply.

  1. No Salary or Benefits Mentioned
  • Hiding pay information signals a lack of transparency and often reduces applications from top talent.

  1. Culture & Mission Missing
  • No mention of the company’s safety culture, training programs, or values—things that matter deeply in a high-risk, skill-based role like rigging.

  1. Responsibilities Are Too Broad
  • “Operate rigging equipment” is not enough detail. A good job post explains the types of lifts, environments, and teamwork involved.

  1. Outdated, Cold Application Process
  • “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels dismissive. There’s no mention of timelines, steps, or respect for the candidate’s effort.

  1. Zero Personality in the CTA
  • Ending with a plain email and no encouragement makes the job feel like a formality, not a valued opportunity.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Rigger Job Description Stand Out

These are the small, often-overlooked details that can make your job post not just visible—but irresistible—to the right candidates.

  1. Add an IMPORTANT NOTICE for Trust & Safety
    Skilled riggers are in high demand, and scammers sometimes target job seekers. Including a security notice in your job post builds instant trust.
    Example:

“We take the security and privacy of all applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information at any stage of the hiring process.”

  1. Mention Time Off & Flexibility
    Riggers often work in demanding conditions. Let them know you value their downtime.
    Example:

“Enjoy up to 20 paid days off per year, including flexible scheduling for personal time, so you can recharge and return safely focused.”

  1. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
    Even experienced riggers want to upskill—especially with new safety standards and equipment.
    Example:

“We invest in your growth with paid certification programs, safety workshops, and mentorship from industry veterans.”

  1. Include a Short Team Video
    Seeing the crew, the equipment, and the work environment can be more persuasive than paragraphs of text.
    Example:
  • A 1–2 minute Loom or YouTube clip featuring team members explaining why they enjoy working there and what safety means to them.

Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4

  1. Link to Real Employee Testimonials or Reviews
    If you have positive Glassdoor reviews or an “employee spotlight” blog, link to them. Riggers often choose employers based on how crews treat each other and uphold safety.
  2. Show You Respect Their Time
    Be upfront about how long your hiring process takes and when applicants will hear back. That transparency is rare—and appreciated.

AI Caution: Why Blindly Using AI for Rigger Job Descriptions Can Backfire

Lately, it feels like every company (and every ATS platform) is offering a “one-click” AI-generated job description. While AI can be a helpful tool, relying on it blindly—especially for a role as specialized as rigging—can lead to posts that fall flat.

Why One-Click AI Fails for Rigger Roles

  • Too Generic – AI often spits out the same vague bullet points (“Operate rigging equipment” / “Follow safety procedures”) without industry context.

  • Misses Safety & Compliance Details – A good rigger job post must highlight specific safety protocols, certifications, and equipment standards. AI alone won’t capture this unless you feed it those details.

  • No Personality or Culture – Skilled riggers want to know about your crew, your values, and how you operate on site—not just a task list. AI can’t invent your culture; it needs your input.

  • Attracts the Wrong Applicants – Generic posts appeal to generic candidates. If you want pros who know their way around complex lifts, you need specifics.

The Right Way to Use AI for a Rigger Job Description

Treat AI as your assistant, not your replacement. Give it the raw material so it can shape and polish—without removing your company’s unique voice.

Step 1 – Prepare Your Rough Notes First
 Before you open any AI tool, jot down your bullet points for:

  • Your company overview – industry, projects, and clients you serve.

  • The type of rigging work – e.g., construction, industrial, maritime, entertainment.

  • Safety standards & certifications – OSHA rules, PPE requirements, inspection routines.

  • Team culture – how you work together, training opportunities, crew values.

  • Perks & benefits – pay, leave, flexibility, bonuses, training.

  • Hiring process – clear steps from application to offer.

This makes sure AI is working from your reality, not generic internet fluff.

Step 2 – Use a Detailed Prompt
 Example:

“Help me write a job post for an experienced rigger at Apex Industrial Solutions. We specialize in industrial lifting for large-scale construction projects in Houston, TX. The role involves planning and executing heavy lifts, working with cranes, inspecting rigging gear, and ensuring OSHA safety compliance. We value teamwork, precision, and mentorship. The salary range is $65k–$80k, with health benefits, paid time off, and certification reimbursement. Our hiring process uses WorkScreen for skills-based evaluation, followed by a video interview. Here are my bullet points: [paste your notes here].”

By giving AI your rough notes + detailed prompt, you’ll get something polished, targeted, and aligned with your company—rather than the bland, forgettable job ads flooding the internet.

Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.

If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.

Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Template?

We get it—sometimes you just need something fast.
 Maybe you’ve read this guide, you understand what a strong job post looks like, but you still want a solid starting point you can tweak in a few minutes.

That’s what this section is for.
✏️ Important Reminder:
 Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
 This is a foundation, not a final draft.
 Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.

In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.

Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.

  • Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
  • Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.

 

✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Style

Job Title: Experienced Rigger
 Location: [City, State]
 Job Type: Full-time
 Salary: $[XX,XXX] – $[XX,XXX] per year

🎥 Meet the Team: [Insert video link]

About Us:
 At [Company Name], we move big things safely. From construction sites to industrial facilities, we’re trusted to handle complex lifts with precision and teamwork. Safety isn’t just a policy here—it’s a culture.

What You’ll Do:

  • Plan and execute lifts for a variety of projects.

  • Inspect and maintain rigging gear daily.

  • Work with crane operators, engineers, and crew members to get the job done right.

  • Keep safety front and center on every lift.

What We’re Looking For:

  • [X]+ years’ experience as a rigger (or relevant industry).

  • Rigging or safety certifications preferred.

  • Strong understanding of load charts and safety regulations.

  • Team player with good communication skills.

Perks & Benefits:

  • Competitive salary + performance bonuses.

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.

  • Paid time off + training and certification reimbursement.

Our Application Process:
 Apply via WorkScreen. You’ll complete a short skill-based evaluation, get ranked on a performance-based leaderboard, and top candidates will move to a video interview.

How to Apply: [Insert WorkScreen link]

✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format

Job Title: Experienced Rigger
 Location: [City, State]
 Job Type: Full-time
 Salary: $[XX,XXX] – $[XX,XXX] per year

Job Brief:
 We’re looking for an experienced rigger to join [Company Name] and help us complete complex lifting projects safely and efficiently. In this role, you’ll plan and execute lifts, ensure safety compliance, and collaborate with a skilled team on challenging and rewarding projects.

Responsibilities:

  • Prepare, inspect, and maintain rigging gear daily.

  • Plan and coordinate lifts with crane operators, engineers, and crew members.

  • Follow OSHA and site-specific safety protocols at all times.

  • Assist in training and mentoring junior riggers.

  • Troubleshoot challenges on-site to prevent delays or hazards.

Requirements:

  • Proven rigging experience in construction, industrial, or maritime projects.

  • Rigging or safety certifications preferred.

  • Knowledge of load charts, rigging equipment, and safety regulations.

  • Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills.

  • Physical ability to work in demanding environments.

Benefits:

  • Salary range: $[XX,XXX] – $[XX,XXX] per year.

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.

  • Paid time off and training/certification reimbursement.

  • Opportunities for career advancement.

Our Application Process:
 We keep it simple and transparent:

  1. Apply via WorkScreen using the link below.

  2. Complete a short skills-based evaluation.

  3. Top candidates are invited to a video interview with our team.

  4. Prompt final decision and onboarding.

How to Apply: [Insert WorkScreen link]

Why Use WorkScreen.io for Your Rigger Hiring Process

Once you’ve written a strong job post that attracts the right people, the next challenge is figuring out who’s actually qualified. That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.

WorkScreen helps you:

  • Quickly identify your most promising candidates
    Workscreen automatically evaluates applicants, scores them, and ranks them on a performance-based leaderboard. You’ll instantly see which candidates have the skills you’re looking for.
  • Assess real-world ability—not just résumés
    In rigging, safety and skill matter more than fancy job titles. WorkScreen lets you administer one-click skill tests that measure what candidates can actually do, not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
  • Eliminate low-effort applicants
    No more sifting through “one-click apply” submissions from people who aren’t serious. WorkScreen automatically filters out low-effort applicants—including those who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
  • Save time and reduce hiring mistakes
    By combining automated evaluation with a human-friendly candidate experience, WorkScreen ensures you make smarter, faster, and safer hiring decisions.

📥 Ready to Hire Your Next Great Rigger?

  1. Write your job description using this guide.

  2. Create your job post inside WorkScreen.io.

  3. Share your unique application link with candidates.

Let WorkScreen handle the evaluations—so you can focus on meeting only the best fits for your team.


👉 Get Started with WorkScreen.io

Hire right, fast, and smart.

Rigger Job Description - FAQs

 When hiring a rigger, you want to prioritize a mix of technical skill, safety knowledge, and experience. Key qualifications include:

  • Certification in rigging or crane operation (where applicable)
  • Hands-on experience with lifting, hoisting, and rigging equipment
  • Strong understanding of safety protocols and OSHA regulations
  • Physical fitness and stamina for demanding tasks
  • Attention to detail and problem-solving skills

 Salaries can vary depending on location, experience, and the type of rigging work. On average:

  • Entry-level riggers: $35,000–$45,000 per year
  • Experienced riggers: $50,000–$65,000 per year
  • Specialized or lead riggers: $70,000+ per year
    It’s always a good idea to benchmark salaries in your region to remain competitive and attract top talent.

 A rigger is responsible for:

  • Planning and preparing rigging setups for lifting and moving heavy objects
  • Inspecting equipment and materials for safety and reliability
  • Coordinating with crane operators and other team members during lifts
  • Following strict safety protocols to prevent accidents
  • Maintaining accurate records of rigging operations and equipment checks

 Technical skills are critical, but personality and attitude matter just as much. Look for:

  • Teamwork and communication skills
  • Adaptability to different projects or work environments
  • Commitment to safety and company standards
  • Problem-solving mindset under pressure
  •  It depends on your needs and training capacity. If you hire entry-level riggers:

    • Clearly indicate “willing to train” in the job post
    • Ensure robust onboarding and mentorship programs are in place
    • Test aptitude for physical tasks and understanding of safety protocols
  • Focusing solely on certifications or years of experience without testing real-world skills
  • Overlooking safety culture and communication abilities
  • Using generic job posts that don’t attract committed, skilled applicants

 Yes! WorkScreen’s skills-based assessments allow you to test candidates on:

  • Real-world rigging scenarios

  • Safety protocol knowledge

  • Physical coordination or planning exercises (digitally assessed where possible)
    This ensures you only move forward with qualified, competent applicants.

 

Make Your Next Great Hire With WorkScreen

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Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

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