Image of career: Rigger

Rigger

Overview

Riggers work with lifting equipment, conduct regular upkeep and ensure the equipment's safe usage.

Description

  • Specialise in lifting equipment operations and conduct regular system checks and upkeep.
  • Utilise communications devices to work with various parties.
  • Adhere to health and safety guidelines to ensure the safety of self and others.
  • Work with tricky shipments, such as goods that are hazardous or fragile, requiring special handling techniques.
  • Plan and execute complex lifting and moving strategies for oversized, heavy, or awkward loads while inspecting rigging equipment.

Entry requirements

  • Most riggers have to obtain the Workforce Skills Qualification (WSQ) Performing Rigger and Signalman Tasks certificate.

Salary

$1,900 – 2,800

/mo

Salary ranges are estimated based on public information found on Singaporean job portals, including MyCareersFuture, MySkillsFuture. Updated as of 2026.

Trivia

A lifting team consists of a lifting supervisor, crane operator, and a rigger. Smooth communication and teamwork is key to ensuring a safe lifting operation. Other factors include weather conditions, ground stability, equipment state.

What to expect

Rigging is tough as you will face harsh conditions, heat, standing for long hours, and lifting heavy loads. Maintaining a healthy mind and body will be crucial.

Soft
skills

Communication

Able to exchanging information well with crane operators and team members.

Teamwork

Ability to collaborate and work with others effectively.

Problem-Solving

Ability to find practical and innovative solutions to issues arising.

Knowledge of Rigging Techniques

Trained in securing and moving loads according to safety standards and industry best practices.

Understanding of Hazards

Good understanding of the risks in lifting tasks and displays heightened awareness.

Knowledge of Load Dynamics

Possess full knowledge and understanding of how loads behave during lifting for secure handling and positioning.

Hard
skills

Frequently asked questions

Crane operations are not part of a rigger's usual responsibilities, but it may happen. To operate a crane, they have to register to become a certified crane operator. As a rigger, they work hand in hand with crane operators by securing heavy loads before they are lifted.

Riggers play important roles in projects beyond construction. They could be working in places such as shipyards, manufacturing plants, and even event sites such as parks. As long as there is lifting of heavy loads involved, companies need experienced riggers.

Riggers attend courses on new equipment or technology and practice using this equipment when there is time to stay current with industry developments.

Riggers inspect equipment for any malfunction, make plans for the work and ensure all safety precautions are taken before starting the rigging operation.

Riggers ensure that there isn't any leakage or damage before operation and ensure the cargo is securely secured on the machine before moving the cargo safely.