Career growth is something everyone desires and works hard for. In the fastest-growing industries of Australia, such as construction, mining, oil and gas, the demand for highly trained, safety-focused riggers continues to rise. Yes, it’s true that entry-level roles offer a good starting point, but the real opportunities lie in advanced-level rigging. So, holding the advanced rigging licence doesn’t just mean better job security; it even opens the door to some of the highest-paying and most respected roles in high-risk work environments. So, what are you waiting for? Here, learn about the seven high-paying jobs you can get after earning this license. Stay tuned!
What Is an Advanced Rigging Licence?
It’s time to understand this licence. It is the highest level of rigging certification under Australia’s high-risk work licence (HRWL) system. With this, you’re qualified to:
- Assemble and dismantle large cranes and hoisting systems.
- Install precast concrete panels and suspended scaffolds.
- Perform complex lifts using multiple cranes.
- Safely manage equipment like gin poles, flying foxes, and derricks.
Roles one can get after earning this licence1. Crane Erection Specialist
Average salary: $120,000 – $150,000 per year
The Crane Erection Specialist is a job that requires preciseness and engineering knowledge. With an advanced rigging licence, you’ll be qualified to supervise or carry out the assembly and disassembly of tower cranes, mobile cranes, and self-erecting cranes. This job also involves working at heights, making it one of the most technically demanding roles.
2. Structural Steel Rigger
Average salary: $100,000 – $130,000 per year
One major unavoidable fact is the large-scale construction projects dependency on heavy structural steel riggers. This is mainly to place steel beams and frames accurately. So, advanced riggers can take on leadership roles in this field, overseeing complex lifts, tilt-up panel installations, and heavy structural components on commercial and infrastructure projects. The only thing you need to make sure is that you have updated licence.
3. Offshore Oil & Gas Rigger
Average salary: $140,000 – $180,000 per year (plus allowances)
Working on oil rigs or offshore platforms comes with high risk and high reward ratio. Advanced riggers are responsible for loading and unloading massive equipment, conducting dual-lift operations, and maintaining hoisting systems. Jobs in this sector typically require additional safety training and consulting certifications such as confined space entry, working at heights, and offshore survival training (BOSIET).
4. Shutdown Rigger in Mining & Energy
Average salary: $120,000 – $160,000 per year
During plant shutdowns in the mining and energy industries, experienced riggers are brought in to remove and replace massive machinery, pipe systems, and infrastructure. These high-pressure jobs require excellent planning, speed, and the ability to work long shifts in remote locations. Having an advanced rigging licence ensures you’re qualified to handle the most critical components during these multi-million dollar operations.
5. Demolition Rigger
Average salary: $110,000 – $140,000 per year
Advanced riggers are essential in large-scale demolition projects. You’ll be tasked with rigging up structures for controlled collapse, securing structural elements during takedown, and working with heavy equipment in unstable environments. This role requires meticulous attention to workplace health and safety (WHS) and benefits from partnering with experienced safety training and consulting firms to manage on-site risks.
6. Wind Farm Installation Technician
Average salary: $110,000 – $145,000 per year
As Australia invests more in renewable energy, demand for skilled riggers in wind farm construction continues to grow. You’ll be responsible for assembling and securing tower components and turbine blades—tasks that require extreme precision and advanced rigging knowledge. Work is usually done at great heights, often in remote or offshore locations.
7. Heavy Lift Supervisor
Aveage salary: $130,000 – $170,000 per year
Once you gain enough experience with an advanced rigging licence, you can step into a supervisory or consulting role. Heavy lift supervisors plan, coordinate, and oversee the most challenging lifts on any worksite, from moving generators to installing bridges. These professionals often work in tandem with safety training and consulting companies to ensure lift plans meet compliance and engineering standards.
Conclusion
Upgrading to an advanced rigging licence isn’t just about expanding your skill set, it’s about increasing your professional value and opening doors to high-paying, high-responsibility roles. These positions demand more than technical ability; they require a strong commitment to safety, precision, and compliance. To stand out in a competitive workforce, ongoing training is essential, and that starts with choosing the right training partner.
Safety Australia Training is a leading RTO that specialises in high-risk work licences, offering expert instruction, practical assessments, and industry-aligned safety training. If you’re serious about advancing your rigging career, Safety Australia Training is the smart choice to get you certified, compliant, and job-ready.