Rigger

Position Summary:

Set-up, assemble, or disassemble job-specific rigging that includes selecting 

proper gear and equipment based on the size, weight, dimensions, and area of 

movement that is necessary to safely secure machinery, tools, and equipment for 

relocation and/or transportation. Control, manipulate, fabricate, and repair rigging 

and support structures. Requires the use of hand, flag, and/or verbal signals to 

communicate to operators and others. Riggers may drive a commercial vehicle, 

perform maintenance or welding/fabrication functions, assist in warehouse 

activities, or perform other tasks as necessary when not rigging. 

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Visually inspect and test rigging materials to ensure safety and reliability.

• Align, level, and anchor machinery or equipment. 

• Use hand and/or power tools to attach loads to rigging to provide support or 

prepare for moving. May also secure machinery or equipment to prevent 

movement.

• Select appropriate gear such as cables, pulleys, vices, winches, etc. according 

to load weights and sizes, work area, and job specifications. 

• Be aware of obstacles, surrounding structures, barriers or objects and the 

location of other people.

• Signal or verbally communicate with workers and others engaged in hoisting, 

suspending, and moving loads to ensure the safety of workers and materials.

• Manipulate rigging lines, hoists, and pulling gear to move or support materials, 

heavy equipment and/or machinery.

• Control movement of heavy equipment through narrow openings or confined 

spaces, using chain falls, gin poles, gallows frames, and other equipment.

 • Tilt, dip, and turn suspended loads to maneuver over, under, and/or around 

obstacles, using multi-point suspension techniques.

• Install ground rigging for yarding lines utilizing chokers and logs, other tools as 

necessary. 

• Assist in fabrication, set up, and repair of rigging, supporting structures, hoists, 

and pulling gear, using hand and power tools.

• Attach pulleys and blocks to fixed overhead structures such as beams, 

ceilings, and gin pole booms, using bolts and clamps. 

• Dismantle, inspect, clean, organize and store rigging equipment after use.

• Run, operate, maneuver, navigate, or drive vehicles or mechanized equipment 

such as forklifts, scissor lifts, ariel lifts.

Minimum Qualifications (Experience, Skills, and Education):

• HS diploma or equivalent preferred.

• Able to take direction and closely follow instruction.

• Visualize or predict the outcome of the job by using deductive and inductive 

reasoning.

• Ability to use precision measuring tools and equipment including hand, power, 

and pneumatic tools. Must be able to read or use a tape measure, levels, 

calipers & gauges, use welding and cutting tools, as necessary.

• Correctly estimate weight-bearing ability of tools and equipment.

• Read blueprints, schematics, or technical manuals as required.

• Familiar with various hand or flag signals including the use and meaning.

• Willing to learn, know, and follow safety requirements, including the correct 

use of Personal Protective Equipment.

• Valid driver’s license: CDL and/or endorsements may be required for certain 

positions. 

• Must be able to obtain DOT medical card upon hire (company will assist as needed). 

• NCCCO or NCCER rigging certification preferred

Advanced Position Requirements (Rigger 3; Lead Rigger 1, 2, 3, or 4; Rigging 

Foreman):

• HS diploma or equivalent necessary; higher education preferred for advanced 

Rigger positions.

• Three to five years of rigging or directly relatable experience. Additional years’ 

experience preferred for advanced Rigger positions.

• Ability to supervise the work of others and manage their time efficiently.

• Knowledge of employee life-cycle processes including hiring/firing, and 

employee relations or employment changes. 

• Advanced use of or knowledge in jack skating, leveling tools, dollies, etc.

 • Able to instruct, guide, and/or mentor others in safety protocol and standard 

rigging practices.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

This is very physical, hands-on work. A Rigger must be able to perform General 

Physical Activities — activities that require considerable use of arms and legs and 

moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, 

and handling of materials up to 50 pounds. Must have the ability to work off the 

ground at varying heights, and not be affected by moving machinery or parts. 

Willing and able to work in a non-temperature-controlled environment and/or 

outdoors in all types of weather, and over uneven ground or terrain.

Additional Requirements:

Work with a Top-of-Mind Awareness for the safety of yourself and everyone at 

the job site. Must be able to work in a high functioning team environment. Display 

the highest levels of honesty, integrity, and professionalism. Take pride in your 

work and in the company. Communicate openly and strive for peak performance 

in daily tasks. Know and deliver the quality service MEI’s customers have come to 

expect.

Disclaimer: This job description is intended to summarize the type and level of 

work performed by a Rigger and is not an exhaustive list of all duties, 

responsibilities, and/or requirements. MEI reserves the right to change or modify 

this job description or the essential duties of Rigger, as necessary.

MEI is an Equal Opportunity, M/F/Disabled/Vet Preferred Employer.