Rigger

Job Description

Job Description

Shipyard Rigger

LEAD Staffing 

Location: Hampton Roads, VA
Schedule: Full-Time | Contract | 40 hours per week (Overtime as required)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Shipyard Rigger to support ship repair, modernization, and new construction projects in Hampton Roads, VA. This role involves safely moving, lifting, positioning, and securing heavy equipment, machinery, and structural components aboard vessels and within shipyard facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute rigging operations involving heavy equipment, machinery, and shipboard components.
• Inspect and utilize rigging gear including chain falls, come-alongs, wire rope, slings, shackles, and lifting devices.
• Interpret lift plans, rigging diagrams, and technical drawings.
• Safely move materials and equipment using cranes, forklifts, and other lifting equipment.
• Calculate load weights, center of gravity, and proper rigging configurations.
• Install, remove, and relocate shipboard machinery, valves, pumps, and structural components.
• Conduct pre-use inspections of rigging equipment and maintain rigging gear in safe working condition.
• Communicate effectively with crane operators, supervisors, and fellow trades personnel during lifting operations.
• Follow all shipyard safety procedures, OSHA regulations, and quality standards.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of rigging experience in a shipyard, marine, industrial, or heavy construction environment.
• Knowledge of safe rigging practices, load calculations, and lifting procedures.
• Ability to read and interpret rigging drawings, lift plans, and technical documentation.
• Experience working around cranes and heavy lifting equipment.
• Familiarity with hand signals and radio communication for crane operations.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• NCCCO Rigger Certification or equivalent preferred.
• Must be willing to undergo background check and drug screening.
• Willingness to work overtime, weekends, and extended schedules as required.
• Clean driving record required.

Work Environment

• Shipyard and industrial settings
• Exposure to noise, heat, cold, heights, confined spaces, and marine/industrial hazards
• Frequent lifting, climbing, and physical labor required
• PPE required at all times

Job-Specific Interview Questions

1. Describe your rigging experience in a shipyard or industrial environment. 
2. What types of rigging equipment are you most experienced using? 
3. How do you determine the proper sling configuration for a lift? 
4. Explain how you calculate load weight and center of gravity. 
5. Describe a complex lift you successfully completed and the planning involved. 
6. What steps do you take to inspect rigging gear before use? 
7. How do you communicate with crane operators during lifting operations? 
8. What safety hazards are most common during rigging operations, and how do you mitigate them? 
9. Have you worked with critical lifts or lifts in confined spaces? Please explain. 
10. How do you handle situations where a lift plan does not match field conditions? 

Why Work  With LEAD Staffing

• Competitive pay based on experience
• Paid Sick Leave
• Holiday Pay (eligible after qualifying hours worked)
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance options
• Referral Bonus Program – earn a bonus for referring qualified candidates
• Consistent shipyard work with overtime opportunities
• Opportunity to work on complex naval and industrial projects
• Strong safety-first work culture