🎢Riggers

MODERATE
Category:Installation Maintenance and Repair Occupations
Last updated: Jun 6, 2025

AI Impact Overview

"While the role of riggers requires a high degree of manual dexterity, coordination, and on-site judgment that is difficult to fully automate, AI and robotics will increasingly augment these tasks, especially for routine or hazardous operations."

Detailed Analysis

Automation is unlikely to fully replace riggers in the next decade, but aspects of the job—such as planning lifts, equipment monitoring, and safety checks—will be increasingly integrated with AI tools and digital technologies. Junior-level tasks are most susceptible to automation (such as routine inspections or simple rigging), whereas senior riggers—who require advanced critical thinking, supervision, and complex problem-solving—are more resilient but must adapt to new digital tools.

Opportunity

"By proactively embracing new technologies and building skills that complement AI, riggers can secure vibrant and resilient career paths in a changing industry."

AI Risk Assessment

Risk Level by Experience

Junior
MODERATE

Junior Level:

Routine rigging tasks and basic safety monitoring could be automated or AI-assisted, reducing demand for entry-level roles.

Mid-level
MODERATE

Mid Level:

Required to operate new AI-enabled tools and adapt to workflow changes; risk depends on willingness and ability to upskill.

Senior
LOW

Senior Level:

Expertise in judgment, complex lifting, team leadership, and advanced safety management remains low-risk, though digital literacy will be essential.

AI-Driven Job Forecasts

2 Years

Job Outlook

Continued strong demand for manual rigging skills, with early adoption of AI-powered safety monitoring and planning tools.

Transition Strategy

Learn to use digital inspection platforms; pursue certified safety and rigging courses; attend technology-focused industry events.

5 Years

Job Outlook

Increasing integration of AI-assisted rigging equipment and planning systems; demand persists for highly skilled riggers with technical adaptability.

Transition Strategy

Pursue certification in robotics or automated systems maintenance; gain experience with smart lifting and inspection platforms.

7+ Years

Job Outlook

Significant adoption of collaborative robotics, AI-driven jobsite management, and digital twin simulations. Riggers shift toward hybrid technical-management roles.

Transition Strategy

Specialize in the integration of smart technologies; transition to safety coordinator or technical supervisor roles; pursue continuous education in emerging tech.

Industry Trends

Adoption of Digital Twins

Impact:

Improves workflow planning and risk simulation; riggers will work alongside digital tools for lift simulation and logistics.

Cross-disciplinary Collaboration

Impact:

Riggers increasingly partner with engineers, planners, and IT specialists as processes digitize.

Expansion of Jobsite Data Analytics

Impact:

Real-time data collection and AI-driven insights will increase efficiency and jobsite safety accountability.

Increased Automation and Robotics

Impact:

Robotics will assist with hazardous lifting and reduce demand for low-skill rigging, creating demand for technicians.

Modular and Prefabricated Construction

Impact:

Changes to lifting requirements and workflows; need for custom rigging strategies.

Regulatory Focus on Safety and Certification

Impact:

New certifications and ongoing training become more important as standards for working with automation are updated.

Remote Equipment Monitoring and Maintenance

Impact:

Shifts some inspection and troubleshooting to digital platforms and remote diagnostics.

Smart Wearables and Augmented Reality

Impact:

Personal safety and efficiency on rigging teams improved through hands-free work instructions and hazard alerts.

Sustainability and Green Construction

Impact:

Environmental compliance and equipment efficiency become part of rigger roles.

Talent Shortages and Workforce Aging

Impact:

Increases reliance on technology to maintain productivity and safety.

AI-Resistant Skills

Situational Awareness and Safety Judgement

Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Skills Type:
Safety, Decision-Making
Score:10/10

Manual Dexterity and Hand-Eye Coordination

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Skills Type:
Physical Skills
Score:10/10

Team Communication and Leadership

Construction Management Association of America
Skills Type:
Interpersonal, Leadership
Score:9/10

Alternative Career Paths

Safety Coordinator

Oversees compliance with safety standards and protocols on worksites, ensuring team adherence and risk prevention.

Relevance: Leverages a rigger's safety knowledge and situational awareness.

Robotic Equipment Technician

Maintains and repairs automated and robotic equipment used in construction, including sensors and actuators.

Relevance: Builds on hands-on technical experience and opens future-facing tech opportunities.

Construction Equipment Inspector

Inspects heavy machinery for safety and compliance; documents and addresses potential hazards.

Relevance: Utilizes experience with rigging equipment and safety protocols.

Emerging AI Tools Tracker

Crane AI Load Monitoring Systems
Uses artificial intelligence and machine vision to monitor crane lifts, detect safety hazards, and prevent overloads.
9/10
4-7 yearsPilot stage in specialized projects.
Spot by Boston Dynamics
Robotic site inspection platform for monitoring construction activity and safety.
8/10
2024-2027Major firms piloting, gradual rollout.
Procore Construction Software
Cloud-based project management platform integrating AI-driven documentation and compliance for jobsites.
8/10
CurrentHigh among commercial contractors.

Full AI Impact Report

Access the full AI impact report to get detailed insights and recommendations.