Riggers

Gantry Rigger

Hand Rigger

Heavy Lift Rigger

Machinery Erector

Machinery Mover

Marine Rigger

Motor Rigger

Rigger

Rigging Fabricator

Ship Rigger

What is a Rigger?

A rigger is a skilled professional responsible for the safe and efficient handling, movement, and installation of heavy equipment and materials. They play a crucial role in various industries including construction, maritime, film, and manufacturing. Riggers are tasked with preparing and securing loads prior to lifting, which involves selecting and using the appropriate rigging gear such as slings, chains, and pulleys to ensure safety and compliance with industry standards. Their expertise is critical in ensuring that equipment is properly balanced, avoiding hazards and accidents during lifting operations. Riggers often work closely with crane operators and other construction personnel to coordinate lifts and ensure that all safety protocols are followed. This career requires a deep understanding of load dynamics, industry regulations, and safety practices, making riggers essential for the successful execution of projects that involve heavy lifting and rigging applications.

Job Outlook

Projected salary and job growth

$37420.0 - $97080.0

New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average

Finding local jobs...

Assessment

Related assessments and tests

No assessment available.

Related Occupations

Tasks

Test rigging to ensure safety and reliability.
Signal or verbally direct workers engaged in hoisting and moving loads to ensure safety of workers and materials.
Control movement of heavy equipment through narrow openings or confined spaces, using chainfalls, gin poles, gallows frames, and other equipment.
Tilt, dip, and turn suspended loads to maneuver over, under, or around obstacles, using multi-point suspension techniques.
Select gear, such as cables, pulleys, and winches, according to load weights and sizes, facilities, and work schedules.

Technology Skills

Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel 365
Electronic mail software
- Microsoft Outlook 365
Graphics or photo imaging software
- Maya 2024
Word processing software
- Microsoft Word 365
Computer aided design CAD software
- AutoCAD 2024

Tools Used

Splices or splice plates
- Marlinspikes
- Rigging vises
Dial indicator or dial gauge
- Dial caliper gauges
Screwdrivers
- Phillips screwdrivers
Drill press or radial drill
- Floor drill presses
Cold chisels
- Flat cold chisels

Knowledge

Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

25 Active Jobs in South Africa

Avg Salary: R15,247pm

How to Know If You Are Ready for a Career as a Rigger in South Africa

Rigging is the backbone of South Africa's industrial sector, from the bustling mines of the North West to the massive infrastructure projects in Gauteng and the busy ports of KwaZulu-Natal. Currently, the market is showing strong demand with 26 active jobs available. This sector is also seeing a positive financial trajectory; while the average salary is R15,247pm, our data shows a steady climb in monthly earnings throughout 2024, starting at approximately R13,417 in January and projected to reach R16,771 by December. This growth reflects the increasing value of skilled artisans in the national economy.

Is Rigging Right for Me? (Psychometric Checklist)

Before committing to this path, you must assess whether your natural temperament and physical capabilities align with the demands of the site. A successful Rigger possesses a specific psychological and physical profile:

Spatial Intelligence: Can you visualise how heavy objects will move through a three-dimensional space?
Safety-First Mindset: Do you have an uncompromising commitment to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) protocols?
Physical Resilience: Are you prepared for a labour-intensive role that requires stamina and the ability to work at heights or in confined spaces?
Mathematical Aptitude: Are you comfortable calculating load weights, sling angles, and centre of gravity?
Cool Under Pressure: Can you remain calm and focused when moving multi-tonne equipment where any error could have serious consequences?
Reliability and Teamwork: Can your team-mates trust you to double-check every shackle and bolt?

A Day in the Life of a South African Rigger

In the South African context, your day typically begins at sunrise. Whether you are stationed at a Sasol plant, a Transnet terminal, or a residential construction site, the morning starts with a critical "toolbox talk" to identify potential hazards. You will spend your morning inspecting gear—slings, chains, and cables—ensuring every piece of equipment is fit for purpose and compliant with SANS (South African National Standards).

The core of your work involves coordinating with crane operators and heavy-lift teams to move massive machinery or structural components. You are the "eyes on the ground," using hand signals or radio communication to guide loads with millimetre precision. It is a role that combines intense physical work with high-level technical problem-solving, often conducted in outdoor environments where you must account for South Africa’s unique weather conditions, from Highveld thunderstorms to Cape winds.

Education & Upskilling

To be recognised as a professional Rigger in South Africa, you must pursue a combination of formal qualification and practical experience. The "Red Seal" Trade Test is the industry gold standard and is essential for those wishing to be recognised as qualified artisans.

Formal Education: Most candidates begin by obtaining an N1 to N3 Engineering Studies certificate through a TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) College. This provides the theoretical foundation in engineering drawings and structural calculations.
Apprenticeships: You will need to complete a structured apprenticeship programme under the guidance of a qualified mentor to gain the practical hours required for your trade test.
Short Courses & Certifications: Beyond the basic trade, specialised certifications in "Advanced Rigging," "Lifting Machine Inspector (LMI) training," or "Working at Heights" are highly valued by employers.

It is important to remember that the engineering landscape is constantly evolving. Continuous learning is key; those who invest in regular upskilling and stay updated on the latest rigging technologies and safety legislation will find themselves eligible for the most lucrative contracts and leadership positions.

Next Steps

Deciding on a career as a Rigger is a significant move that offers both stability and the pride of building the nation’s infrastructure. If you have the grit, the precision, and the passion for technical excellence, this could be your perfect fit. Are you ready to see if you have what it takes to thrive in this high-stakes environment? Test your readiness now by taking our comprehensive professional assessment.

Skills

Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Abilities

Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Depth Perception
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Multilimb Coordination
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?

High school diploma or equivalent

63 %

or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
Less than high school diploma

21 %
Post-secondary certificate

16 %

Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)

Work Activities

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Handling and Moving Objects
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Performing General Physical Activities
Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.

Detailed Work Activities

Test mechanical systems to ensure proper functioning.
Communicate with coworkers to coordinate installations or repairs.
Operate cranes, hoists, or other moving or lifting equipment.
Move materials, equipment, or supplies.
Determine types of equipment, tools, or materials needed for jobs.

Work Interests

Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.