How Do I Become a Rigging Supervisor?

The term "rigging" refers to the process of erecting temporary structures used in the construction or extraction industries. If you want to become a rigging supervisor, you will first need to spend time as part of a rigging team in a construction or extraction setting, such as mining or oil drilling. You do not need any specific level of education to get such a job, though many employers prefer job candidates with at least a high school education, if not some college or professional experience. You can become a rigging supervisor by working your way up through the ranks in a company, or by taking part in specific types of training.

The responsibilities you will have after you become a rigging supervisor include overseeing rigging projects, designing rigging structures, ensuring the safe installation, use, and removal of those structures, and continually inspecting the structures for stability. You will also need to manage a large team of workers, and you may be responsible for scheduling worker hours or even payroll duties. This means that you will need to undergo a significant amount of on-the-job training before you become a rigging supervisor so you understand common rigging processes and techniques. You may even need to earn certain licenses or certificates before you can legally work as a rigging worker. You will need to research local laws and regulations regarding such work.

As you work on a rigging team, you may be afforded the opportunity to take part in supervisory or managerial training offered by your company. Whenever possible, take part in such sessions so you can get the experience employers will be looking for on your resume. As a supervisor, you will need to be knowledgeable not only about rigging, but also about managing a large team of workers effectively. Once you have undergone such training or have developed managerial skills, it is likely that you will need to take part in a certification or licensing process that will allow you to become a rigging supervisor. Such certifications can vary by region, so you will need to consult with your employer to find the ones that are appropriate for you.

Once you become a rigging supervisor, you may need to renew your certifications periodically, and you can lose your certification under certain circumstances. You will be responsible for the safety and usability of all rigging structures, so if an accident occurs on your watch or if a rigging structure fails, you may be held responsible and you can lose your certification.