Riggers plan, supervise, and execute the lifting, moving, and securing of heavy loads on construction sites, mines, power stations, and industrial plants. Rigging is a safety-critical trade — incorrect rigging of a load can result in catastrophic accidents. In South Africa, rigging is a registered artisan trade under MERSETA (and historically under the Engineering Council). Riggers work with cranes, chain blocks, wire rope slings, synthetic slings, and specialised lifting equipment. Demand is driven by large infrastructure projects (power stations, roads, wind farms), mining, and the steel and petrochemical sectors. South Africa's skills shortage in rigging is acute.
Riggers inspect lifting equipment (slings, shackles, eyebolts, crane hooks) for defects, calculate load weights and select appropriate sling configurations, plan lifts using manufacturer capacity charts, direct crane operators during critical picks using hand signals or radio, rig and de-rig loads safely, supervise the movement of heavy machinery during plant shutdowns, and complete lifting register records.
Grade 10 (Std 8) minimum for TVET N2 entry. Mathematics (Level 3+) recommended for load calculations and trigonometry. TVET N2, N3 Certificates in Mechanical Engineering required. Mathematical Literacy accepted for N-level entry.
Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to calculate your exact score for each SA university.
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
Programme names and requirements vary by institution. Always verify directly with the university before applying.
Complete Grade 10 with Mathematics. Enrol at a TVET college for N2 and N3 Mechanical Engineering. Trigonometry is essential for rigging calculations — make sure you master it in Grade 10 and 11 Mathematics.
Register as an apprentice with a MERSETA-accredited employer in construction, mining, or heavy engineering. The 3-year rigging apprenticeship covers load calculations, slinging techniques, crane signalling, lifting equipment inspection, and the OHS Act requirements for rigging operations. MERSETA bursaries fund TVET fees and pay monthly training stipends. Eskom, Sasol, and major construction companies (Aveng, WBHO) recruit rigging apprentices.
Pass the GCC Rigging trade test. Qualified riggers on mine sites and large construction projects are highly valued. Experienced riggers progress to lifting supervisor, rigging inspector, or rigging superintendent roles on mega-projects. Contract riggers on Eskom, Transnet, and petrochemical plant shutdowns command R2,500–R5,000/day.
How do I become a rigger in South Africa?
Is rigging a dangerous job in South Africa?
What do riggers earn in South Africa?
Salary ranges are indicative for South Africa 2026 based on market data. Actual salaries vary by employer, location, and experience.