Slinger / Signaller (Rigger)
🏗️Attaches loads to a crane with slings and signals to the crane operator: decides how to rig the load so nothing falls or tilts.
Prospects & pay
What the work is like
💼 Job market
🇺🇸 $67.4k a year on average · +3.9% jobs by 2035 · 1,700 openings a year
Riggers — US: Census ACS 2020–24 (full-time), BLS projections 2025–35
🇬🇧 £28.6k median a year · 37,000 jobs
Elementary construction occupations n.e.c. — UK: ONS ASHE 2025 (full-time)
🤖 AI & automation
Automatic grabs and warehouse robots are cutting the work, but rigging an awkward load by hand on a building site will be needed for a long time.
Who it suits
Interests: 🏗️ Building and spaces, 🔧 Making things by hand, 🛡️ Protecting, rescuing, serving.
Key strengths: strength and stamina, organisation.
Where to study
- Course CPCS or NPORS Slinger/Signaller card (UK); NCCCO Rigger and Signalperson certification (US)
- Apprenticeship Lifting technician or construction apprenticeship
Key school subjects (A-level / IB / AP): Maths, PE.
🧗 A short course and certificate (CPCS/NPORS in the UK, NCCCO in the US), then site experience. You can progress to crane operator or lift supervisor.
Things to know
⚠️ Real danger to life🛢️ Dirt, noise, smells🧗 Working at heights
Similar careers
Not sure what to choose?
A ~100-question quiz builds your interest profile and matches you with careers and universities in Europe, the UK and the US.
Take the quiz →Scales are expert estimates; tuition and admission rules are for 2026/27 from official sources — always check the university website.